Visiting Disneyland and Disney California Adventure during the holidays with kids? This family-friendly guide covers what to expect, holiday food for kids and adults, mobile order tips, and fast casual dining spots like Café Daisy and Paradise Grill—plus a free Disney Day Trip Planner to make your visit stress-free.
Planning a fall visit to Knott’s Spooky Farm with kids? This family-friendly Halloween guide covers rides, candy trails, shows, crowds, and tips.
Planning a Disneyland trip in the fall? This family guide covers weather tips, what to pack, Halloween treats (available as early as August 10), ride overlays, and the best Disneyland fall snacks. Includes a link to my FREE printable Disney Day Planner!
Looking for the best Disneyland restaurants for lunch? These top picks offer kid-friendly meals, quick service convenience, great seating, and delicious food options. Don’t miss Hungry Bear Restaurant for shaded dining, specialty lemonades, and easy kid-approved meals.
Planning a San Diego family vacation? Discover why Hyatt Regency Mission Bay Spa and Marina is the perfect kid-friendly resort, with pools, waterslides, dining, and a prime location near SeaWorld.
Planning a trip to Knott’s Berry Farm with little ones? This family-friendly guide covers the best rides in Camp Snoopy, kid-approved food options, stroller tips, and smart packing essentials. Make your visit stress-free and full of fun memories with our easy-to-follow Knott’s Berry Farm with kids guide.
Family tips for visiting Knott’s Soak City with kids — what to pack, best lunch spots like Longboard’s Grill, and why parents love the drink pass.
Planning a Disneyland trip in May with kids? Discover what to pack, how to prepare for spring weather, the best shareable snacks, and get two FREE printables: a kids’ packing checklist and Disneyland day trip planner. Perfect for families with a six-year-old!
Wondering if one day is enough for Disney California Adventure? Discover how to make the most of a single day with must-try treats like Mickey waffles from Schmoozies, walk-up dining at Lamplight Lounge, the Pickled Michelada in Hollywood Land, and top photo ops from the 70th anniversary decor. Perfect for busy families and first-time visitors!
Discover why Disney California Adventure isn’t just for kids—it’s a paradise for parents too! Enjoy craft beer flights, sweet treats, and relaxing moments while making unforgettable family memories. Don’t forget to grab our Disney Day Trip Planner for the ultimate stress-free visit!
Looking for a delicious, family-friendly treat at Disneyland? The Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor on Main Street, U.S.A. offers budget-friendly, classic ice cream in a charming setting. Find out why it’s one of the best dessert stops in the park—and grab your Disney Day Trip Planner to make the most of your visit!
Planning a family trip to Disneyland this spring? Discover the best Disneyland spring tips for families—including what to wear, how to beat the crowds, must-pack essentials, and the best snacks for kids. Learn how to plan your Disneyland itinerary around parades, character photo ops, and seasonal events like the Food & Wine Festival. From layering clothes for unpredictable weather to using mobile ordering and taking midday breaks, this guide helps you create magical memories without the stress. Don’t forget to grab your printable Disneyland Day Trip Planner to stay organized and make the most of your springtime Disney day!
You can’t visit Disneyland without indulging in a sweet treat! Discover why Candy Palace and Candy Kitchen on Main Street, U.S.A. is a must-stop for working moms planning a Disney day. From giant cookies to adorable cake pops, this old-fashioned sweet shop offers budget-friendly dessert tips and memory-making moments for families. Don’t forget to grab your Disneyland Day Planner Checklist to help you plan the sweetest Disney trip ever!
Discover the best kid-friendly meals at Disneyland’s Refreshment Corner. From mac & cheese bread bowls to surprise character fun, here’s what to eat and how to plan the perfect Disney day.
Planning a family trip to Hotel Del Coronado? Discover our 2-day, 1-night spring break itinerary with beach tips, where to eat, and how to make the most of your stay with kids.
Although we are Magic Key Holders at Disney, it’s taken us a while to get through all the delicious foodie spots at both Disneyland and DCA. We were super excited to spend some time trying treats at San Fransokyo Square. As most parents do when on vacation, we are always trying to find kid-friendly foods…
When visiting Disney California Adventure, one of the best quick-service spots for families is Corn Dog Castle. This classic food stand serves up delicious, hand-dipped corn dogs that are perfect for a theme park meal—quick, satisfying, and kid-approved! If you’re planning a Disney day trip with kids, here’s everything you need to know about eating…
February is a fantastic time to visit Disneyland! We visited the parks with our five-year-old daughter, specifically on Valentine’s Day and it was such a sweet day full of fun and new memories. It was the perfect sweet treat for us parents and allowed us to celebrate the day of love and friendship as a…
If you’re looking for a relaxing sit-down meal in Disneyland, Carnation Cafe on Main Street is a must-visit! We recently booked a reservation during our January day trip and were reminded of the charm behind this classic restaurant. Whether you’re stopping for by for lunch or dinner you’ll find hearty options, nostalgic flavors and a…
If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland, stopping by Oga’s Cantina in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is probably on your list if you’re a Star Wars fan. This lively, immersive bar transports you straight into the heart of Batuu, where you can sip on exotic concoctions while enjoying a galactic ambiance unlike any other. Whether…
Are you a parent planning a magical day at Disneyland? While to goal is to maximize the fun and unforgettable experience, a great dining experience can make your visit even more special. One of our tried-and-true dining recommendations at Disney is River Belle Terrace. This charming sit-down restaurant in Frontierland offers delicious Southern-inspired cuisine with…
If you are planning a Disneyland trip in the month of January, you’re in for a great experience! This is one of the best months to visit Disneyland as the crowds are generally lower, the weather is cool, and you’ll still find some holiday decor lingering around the first week of the month. Whether you’re…
Star Wars Land, Galaxy’s Edge, is one of my husband’s favorite lands to visit when we’re at the park. It offers and immersive experience with two thrilling rides that are well worth the wait, but I really like to go there to try all the yummy food and drinks! For weeks, I had been eyeing…
Disney California Adventure is known for its thrilling rides, breathtaking shows, and somewhat more of an adult-centered atmosphere. Amidst all the magic, the Lamplight Lounge stands out as a haven for food lovers and cocktail enthusiasts. Nestled on Pixar Pier, this boardwalk offers great views, delicious shareable eats, and a dining experience that captures the…
Visiting the Disneyland parks and planning your dining can quickly become overwhelming. If you are looking for a more high-end dining experience and are looking to eat outside of the parks, Centrico at Downtown Disney offers an amazing variety of food options and cocktails. My five-year-old daughter loved it too! We are frequent Disney go-ers…
If you are planning your trip to Disneyland, you have probably already started eyeing places to eat and best foods to try at Disneyland. Cafe Orleans is a tried and true sit down restaurant that I recommend over and over again. It’s great for adults but even the picky eaters, like my five -year-old daughter…
If you’re a Disney fan or are planning a trip to Disneyland, you’ve likely heard of the legendary Dole Whip. This pineapple-flavored soft-serve delight has become a must-try treat for visitors of Disneyland. It took me a few visits to Disneyland before I actually tried this but now I can’t believe I waited so long!…
When you think of Disneyland, images of fun rides, enchanting castles, and favorite characters might come to mind. However, Disney days can often mean that we need to keep the energy going and there’s no better way than to enjoy a nice coffee. Visiting Disneyland with a five-year-old means we get to spend time in…
Attending a Los Angeles Rams NFL game at SoFi Stadium is an exhilarating experience, especially in January when the stakes are high. Whether you’re a longtime fan or attending your first game, this guide will help you make the most of your day, from what to wear to where to eat. We just went to…
Are you planning a magical day at Disney California Adventure or Disneyland? With countless attractions, shows, and dining options, a visit to Disney can be overwhelming without proper planning. Our comprehensive Disney Day Trip Planner Template will be your key to a seamless and enchanting experience! Why You Need a Disney Day Planner Visiting Disney…
Disneyland in December is so much fun. The festive lights, the treats and so much goes into the making of a magical experience. Disney California Adventure offers the same holiday sparkle, but in my opinion the crowds are not as intense. Disney California Adventure’s Festival of Holidays is a vibrant celebration that embraces the festive…
Learn how to craft a meaningful family travel vision that keeps everyone involved and excited. Get practical tips to prioritize destinations, activities, and family priorities for next year’s vacation.
We love visiting Disneyland during the holiday season. With our kiddo’s school schedule in full swing, we eagerly awaited the break from sports season to head out to Disneyland. The holiday season transforms Disneyland into a wonderland of festive cheer and magical experiences. There are so many vibrant decorations, seasonal attractions, and unique events that…
Earlier this year we decided it was time to plan a trip to Augusta, Georgia to visit family. We planned a 4-day itinerary to maximize family time and the time we would be taking off of work and school for our five-year-old daughter. We set our travel dates near the end of October. Hotel selections…
When you find yourself in the midst of the futuristic wonders of Tomorrowland at Disneyland, your culinary journey isn’t complete without a visit to the Galactic Grill. This popular dining spot offers a variety of options sure to please every member of your family, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a satisfying meal…
Planning a 2-day stay at Kona Kai Resort on Shelter Island, San Diego can be an exciting and relaxing getaway. Truly something that fits the needs of both parents and children! This summer we knew we would want to get away to a beach destination in Southern California and possibly only looking at an overnight…
Hey there busy mamas! This year we made our way out to the Loyola Marymount Campus to experience the Los Angeles Rams football Training Camp. This is a yearly event that we attend as season ticket holder and have included our now five-year-old daughter ever since she was born. While the training camp was previously…
As our visits to the parks have increased, we continue to spend time dining at the multiple Disney restaurants available. While our first time dinner experience at River Belle Terrance was okay, we gave it another chance this summer on D23 Day when we were looking for a lunch option. Nestled in the heart of…
Flying Air France Economy to Paris CDG airport with our four-year-old child was an experience that left much to be desired. Flying back home to California from our Spring London and Paris travel with our young daughter was the last leg of our 10-day trip. If you haven’t read our review on our flight from…
Bonjour, lovely parents! Hopefully by now you’ve read about our travel experience to London which preceded our route to Paris via the Eurostar. In just two hours you can travel from the UK into France! for background, our total stay in the UK and France was 10 days including travel days to and from the…
With so many food options to try at DCA, you can quickly find that you may want to opt for a quick and not so heavy meal. This is where eating somewhere like Award Weiners may be the perfect fit for your family. The open and partially covered seating with several tables is great for…
This spring we had the opportunity to take our very first family trip to Europe and the UK, with our four-year-old daughter. Living in California, we knew we were in for a long-haul flight. And so began the research and deep dives as to how to best plan for this trip. We knew we would…
I love booking a dining reservation at Disneyland, I would much more rather spend my money on table-service restaurants than spending my time waiting in lines for the ever-popular seasonal foods that Disneyland promotes – and is actually quite popular for. We recently decided to try Carnation Cafe on Main Street as our dinner option…
Planning your kids first visit to a baseball stadium is something that you should not take lightly. Afterall, this is their first introduction to a family favorite sports event and their impression will determine how much they favor returning for another experience or even yet – how enjoyable the experience is for the entire family….
It’s the end of January 2024 and the Rams football season is officially a wrap! Only a few more weeks until the Super Bowl. This season I attended a whopping one game which was due to a busy personal season of my life. But nevertheless, I’m so glad I squeezed one in. These days are…
Finding the best restaurants for families, with kids, while adventuring at Disneyland or Disney California Adventure takes time and effort. Often times when visiting one of the parks we like to step outside to get a change of scenery from the amusement parks. In January, we decided to try Earl of Sandwich, which was recently…
If you are a parent visiting Disney California Adventure (DCA), I’m willing to bet that you are looking for fun things that the adults in the group can enjoy too. That’s why I’m here – I share the good and the bad that’s available at the parks so that you can make the best choices…
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay for a winter vacation, Hotel Del Coronado is a top contender. Our recent visit in December was nothing short of magical, and it’s no wonder why this hotel has been a favorite for over 130 years! Less than a two-hour drive from Orange County makes…
As Magic Key holders, we spent a good number of days in 2023 visiting both Disneyland Resort parks and an equal amount of time dining there. I’ve curated a quick guide for parents to consider when planning their trip to the resort. I added a couple of bonus eateries which include Downtown Disney. My goal…
The Los Angeles Rams Training Camp is a summer tradition that our family can’t resist. Year after year, we look forward to watching the players practice and getting an inside look at what it takes to make it to the NFL. It’s a chance for us to bond as a family while enjoying the beautiful…
My family lives in Orange County and as parents to a four-year-old, we love the idea of Disneyland being a quick 20-minute drive away from home. During the first two year of being a parent, we made it a point to visit Disneyland once or twice a year. We visited during all seasons Spring, Summer,…
The Hollywood Bowl is by far one of my favorite concert venues of all time. The atmosphere is simply classic, and the outdoor experience just livens up any concert. In the past, I’ve mainly attended for live action experiences such as Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Game of Thrones Concert Experience and most recently in…
Is a one-night stay in Palm Springs possible, worth it and enjoyable? As parents to a four-year-old, we considered all these factors before booking our trip to Palm Springs. Destination Planning With a promising 2 hours road trip from Orange County it checked off all the boxes. We made it our goal to schedule our…
March was a busy month for me that involved some business travel. As usual, I’m bringing you along with where I stayed and letting you know whether or not my hotel stay met my expectations. I had a three-day stay at the Homewood Suites by Hilton in San Diego. This location was in the downtown…
We live in the West Coast, California to be exact and we knew we wanted to trial our 3 1/2-year-old daughters air travel experience to determine if future long-haul flights to Europe would be a possibility for us. As mentioned in my previous post, flying into Honolulu, Hawaii is a 5.5. hour flight from Los…
As a working mom I often take the time to consider how my professional career is progressing. For most of us the work landscape has changed significantly post 2020. We now communicate more via video calls, may work in hybrid or even full-time remote work environments. 2022 marked a year of change for me. I…
I love the thought of elevating my travel experiences. My readers know that I love to plan a good vacation. Prior to parenthood, my husband and I Ioved to travel to Europe and visit beautiful beach destinations here in the United States or Bahamas. One thing I wish I would have known then was the…
So you’re thinking of attending the annual Oogie Boogie Bash, a well-known Disney Halloween Party at Disney California Adventure? Not sure where to start or whether or not you should spend the money on these highly sought tickets? I’m going to share with you what our experience was like when we attended earlier this year…
We all look forward to that much needed break away from work. The time that allows you to disconnect from structured routines and tasks. For me, working a full-time career and being a parent to a toddler is encouragement alone to map out some time each month to plan for future family vacations. Don’t get…
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Maybe even burnt-out ? Post pandemic, burnout has been a topic not only for moms, but working women overall. I was always a very organized and highly structured person. I was able to attain my master’s degree while married and holding a full-time profession. Not to mention – my husband and…
We recently travelled to Santa Barbara, California in mid-July and brought our toddler along for the fun. We initially thought that a Santa Barbara getaway would best be left for an adults-only trip, we realized we wanted our toddler child to be a part of this memory. We’ve done our fair share of adult traveling…
Visiting Disneyland is no easy task – particularly when planning for a successful (and fun) day with your little tot. This year we were set on visiting Disneyland in the summer months, specifically late June. Right when school is out for most kids and the summer days begin to warm up in Southern California. We…
It only took us about three years, but we finally made it to our first family baseball game. We are Orange County locals and as much as my husband loves the Dodgers visiting the Angels Stadium is a much more viable option. I was a little nervous about how Mila would react in a loud…
We decided to travel to the Las Vegas Strip for a day. Read along to learn about our last minute trip from Orange County to Las Vegas.
If you’re planning a trip to the Los Angeles Zoo with a toddler, read on for my travel tips.
Running out of fun ideas and excursions for your toddler? Then Pretend City is the place to take your curious tot! This post will help walk you through some tips to help plan your visit and make the most of your time there. One of the things I constantly do is plan for my time…
As a new-mom you think the scary skin reaction stages you face in the newborn months would be over by the time your babe reaches the toddler stage. Well let me tell you, right as Mila hit the two-year mark she developed a very scary rash on her neck which later spread to all of…
Things have been looking up in 2021. Southern California residents have weathered through this pandemic, so we jumped at the opportunity when Disney California Adventure announced its limited re-opening. If you’re anything like me, you may be a working mom that has been exhausted during these last 15 months. Raising a 1 year old during…
2021 has arrived and I didn’t begin the year with too many expectations. Our world continues to ride this pandemic wave and although things are slightly improving, I didn’t want to place any additional pressure or stress on my life. One area of my life that I am focusing on is creating more simplicity around…
Hi guys- it’s been about a month since my last post. And well, a lot of that has to do with the fact that I’ve been logging in those hours at the office. Many days it’s well over the standard 8-hour day. While working full-time is what I signed up for, so is the demand…
Prior to actually going on maternity leave, I had everything planned out. Take a couple of weeks off before my due date and then four full months of leave after. I like to plan things. Little did I know that some unexpected hurdles could change my plan. While labor and delivery went smooth (meaning healthy…
Bonjour everyone! As you all know, I am all about a good capsule wardrobe. Needless to say I recently added a new addition to my Spring Capsule Wardrobe. Introducing the snake print heel. I really evaluate wardrobe additions because I want to make sure that what I’m adding will be of long-time value. Don’t get…
Being a full-time working ( new) mom always presents a unique set of challenges. As most of you know, my quest here is to make my life as simple (yet luxurious) with nothing short of intentional purchases. Mila has had her fair share of toys , but today I want to share with you a…
Prior to 2020 I would have drafted a gift giving guide that included hot-style picks or smart gifts for any woman. Fast forward to 2019, the year I became a mommy, and my gift giving suggestions are surprisingly low or no-cost. If you’re a gal, feel free to forward this on to your better half…
Since my last post there’s been plenty of learning on my end when it comes to the baby world. Transitioning from breastfeeding to formula has allowed me the opportunity to track my baby’s trends closely and I thought it may be helpful to some of the newer mamas to see what worked for me. I…
The ability to breastfeed my baby was a blessing but unfortunately a bad case of mastitis turned into a breast abscess nightmare.
One of my favorite things to do each season includes carefully building my capsule wardrobe. The idea of a capsule wardrobe really ignited in me after visiting Europe for the first time, somewhere around seven years ago . I recall my first trip to Paris and was mesmerized by all the surrounding fashion and their…
Getting ready for baby has been such a fun experience but needless to say I’m a planner at heart and much thought went into what I wanted to purchase and actually set up before baby’s arrival.
How I unintentionally planned for my maternity capsule wardrobe. Read through for my recommendations and lessons learned.
I have been reflecting more frequently on the need to take in your surroundings and make use of what you have around you. This is likely why you may have noticed that it’s been a good minute since I last published a post both here and on Instagram. I promise I’ll be posting more, I…
Pregnancy is a fantastic period in a woman’s life. I’m currently amazed by the beauty and patience the first four months of pregnancy have taught me. The reality is though, that if you are working mama-to-be (like moi) — you are bound to experience emotions that can sometimes lead you to feeling helpless and overwhelmed….