San Diego Sunshine & Learning

I got out of the Utah smog and snow for a few days with my mom in sunny San Diego.  It was a necessary recharge, and a huge lesson in parenting.  I feel it my duty to share the top 8 things I learned about traveling with a 2 year old, and my mom.

8) Airlines that offer in seat entertainment are superior to any other airline. Thank you Delta for letting my kid watch Cars 3 coming and going!!!  In seat entertainment prevents me from having to bring ONE MORE THING.  

7) Let the Nana be the Nana.  The 2 of them loved walking hand in hand, reading books, and sharing treats together.  I never want my mom to feel like she has to be the secondary parent.  

6) Simple experiences bring the most joy.  My son spent 20 min. on the airplane playing with the seat belt, and window shade.  Later on he enjoyed drinking his chocolate milk the "fancy" way out of a stawless glass.

5) Let the littles help when you can.  Yes, it takes WAY more time but the experience is priceless.  It took us 30 min. to get from our car to the hotel room.  My Buddy was a walking superstar, and even pushed is own luggage most of the time.  

4) Just because I like the SeaWorld shows, doesn't mean my kid will.  He loved the dolphins, but was not interested in the whales, sea lions, seals, or even the puppies(even though I thought he would). 

3) My mom loves being a Nana.  She packed small toys in lunch sacks.  If he got fussy, she was there to  be the hero.  I will always pack some sort of new toy(s) for my kid while we travel.  The cheaper, the better.  Those things will get lost.  

2) Let them be little.  My little Buddy played in a fountain, chased waves, and tiptoed into situations that parents would normally stop.  But because I relaxed, I let him get wet and dirty knowing that I packed extra clothes.  

1) Parents that travel alone with children are ROCKSTARS.  One kid, and 2 adults..........I was exhausted!

It was really nice to soak up that vitamin d. It was also really cool to see how big my kid is getting.  He loves to travel, and I hope he never loses that love.  He's an awesome adventure buddy.  I highly recommend having children, just so you can travel with them and see the world through their eyes.  

Breakfast with your favorite Disneyland Pals

So many people are asking, "Where's the best character dining?"  So, I'm here to give you facts.  Then you decide...........

I'm only talking breakfast.  Why?  Most of the Disneyland character dining is only available at breakfast.  Cost is also comparable.  There are currently 4 options.  Due to Paradise Pier being remodeled into Pixar Pier we lost Ariel's Grotto.  Here's the necessary info.  Get a reservation before arriving.  No matter which option you choose.......it's popular.  Set this up as far in advance as you can.  60 days before you plan on dining is the BEST option.  You can always edit your reservation, but you want to make it ASAP.  

1) Plaza Inn: Mainstreet USA; Disneyland:  This is the only option available INSIDE a park.  

When; Character dining only available during breakfast buffet.

Cost: $32 adult $18 kids 

Typical Characters: Minnie Mouse, Tigger, Eeyore, Rafikki, Chip, Dale

2) Storytellers Cafe: Grand Californian: This place offers a dinner buffet, but without the characters.

When: Character dining only available during breakfast buffet.

Cost: $35 adult $15 kids

Typical Characters: Chip, Dale, Koda, Meeko

3) Goofy's Kitchen: Disneyland Hotel: This one is the most popular, so make your reservations ASAP.

When: Character dining is "the thing" here.  They offer breakfast and dinner.  At dinner you'll get Mickey too.  

Cost: $35 adult $18 kids

Typical Characters: Goofy, Pluto, Minnie, Chip, Dale

4) Surf's Up: Paradise Pier Hotel: This is the only breakfast where you can see Mickey.

When: Character dining only available at breakfast.  Dinner is a buffet, but not a character buffet.

Cost: $35 adult $15 kids

Typical Characters; Mickey, Minnie, Stitch, Daisy, Pluto

So.....what's my recommendation?  I've only experienced Plaza Inn and Surf's Up.  I also did Ariel's Grotto, but that's unfortunately not an option any more.  I chose Surf's Up because I wanted my kid to meet Mickey without spending half my day in a line.  It was great.  With all of this being said.......you go (and pay) for the characters at these locations.  It's not about the food.  Sure, each location has something that someone would consider "the best", but really there is nothing special about any of the food at these locations.  I loved the music at Surf's Up as well.  It was a P-A-R-T-Y!!! Id love to check out Goofy's Kitchen for dinner, just to see what they've got going on.  Who's coming with me?   

Through TSA in less than 5 min. (w/a kid)?!?!

The airport is one of my favorite places.  It's means that adventure is abounding.  Adventures for all the people I'm watching, adventures for family that I'm dropping off, and best of all...adventure for me!!  Interesting fact: we can't take my son to the airport anymore to drop people off.  He gets so sad that he's not going.  It's in his genes!!!  I love everything about being at the airport.  I love dropping off my bag, finding my terminal, and even going through security.  That's right!  TSA is not a problem for us, and all because of TSA Pre-Check.  Want to make your adventure just as easy, and enjoyable?

1.  What is TSA Pre-Check? Pre(check) allows travelers access to a separate security line at the airport.  Travelers in Pre are allowed to leave all of their items (liquids, technology) in their bags, and allowed to keep light jackets, belts, and SHOES on.  That's right.  No need to pull multiple things out of your bag, or remove your shoes(this is especially enjoyable if you are wearing sandals).  The line is always shorter, and TSA agents always get to you more quickly.

tsa.gov

2.  What does it entail? Pre is a service done prior to traveling deeming you "safe"before ever setting foot in the security line.  You go online, fill out an application, and set up an "interview". There are several locations, some are even in the airport.  We went to an off site location.  They conduct a quick interview and background check/fingerprinting.  After your visit(we actually got ours there) you are given a Known Traveler Number (KTN).  You can add this KTN to your airline information prior to travel, or at the ticket counter at the airport.  Your KTN is what allows you access to the Pre Check line.  Once you get to security, you simply show your ticket and breeze through security.  We've been in situations where you go through a simple metal detector.  Other opportunities had us going through the body scanner.  Either way, it's always super fast. 

3.  How long is it good for? You apply every 5 years.  

4. How much will it cost? $85 for the 5 year "membership".  There are credit card companies that will pay for this service as well.  American Express offers a service that includes Global Entry(international) & TSA Pre(domestic).   

I'm telling you, this thing has been a real life saver.  I'm not the best time manager, and this has saved us so many times.  I know that other services exist, but this one has been the best, most consist option of all.  Maybe it's right for you.  You can thank me later.  ENJOY your adventure through TSA.  

Running CAN have Disney Magic!

Alright!  Let's get serious.  Serious about 2 of my loves............Disney & Running.  Disney has been a hobby for my entire life.  Running on the other hand was a hobby from 2011-2013.  I am rekindling my love of running in the new year, and only because my doctor thinks it "might be a good idea".  So, here I am forcing my love on you and suggesting that you let a little love in your heart for what is called RunDisney.  No, I did not make this up.  RunDisney is a real life thing, and if you need something (like I do) to motivate you to run, it's going to be Disney.

Back in 2011 my Cousin taught me that my happy place could help make me healthy!  I'm not talking "healthy" because of all the calories you burn while walking from ride to ride.  I'm talking about a real life way to get healthy, stay healthy, and visit the Happiest Place on Earth.  Disneyland, Disney World, and Disneyland Paris all offer Run Disney events.  At the end of 2017 Disneyland announced that they were taking a hiatus from the RunDisney circuit because of the new hotel and Downtown Disney remodel that will take place over the next 2 years(I will be blogging about this is the future).  But, I am hopeful that it will return.  

RunDisney has been around for over 25 years.  How do I know?  Well, they just celebrated their 25th Anniversary in Florida during the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend.  But let's get down to it....
Why take up RunDisney running?

1.  You get access to Disney parks without having to pay for admission.  Sure you are in the park before it opens usually, and rides are closed, but, there are tons of other perks.  The park is empty(except the runners).  There is seriously nothing more magical than running through the castle from Fantasyland to Main Street.  Looking out and seeing main street is simply magical.  Disney World also allows you to ride Expedition Everest WHILE you race.  Sometimes you DO get to run during business hours.  The Disney World marathon usually lasts into the opening hours of the park.  All of the other guests weave around you, but they are always so encouraging.  As crazy at it may be, racing for cheers from strangers is very motivating(especially in those last 6 miles).  

2.  You get to see "backstage".  Hello, true Disney fans love being able to go behind the scenes of any Disney property.  My favorite has been running under the bridge from Disneyland to California Adventure.  It's magical to know you've crossed over in the non-traditional way.  They also pull out parade floats, and characters backstage.  To be honest though, my favorite are the maintenance, and backstage employees that stand outside cheering you on.  They wear their giant Mickey Mouse hands and clap for every single racer, smiling the whole time.  I always tear up at them "living the dream" working for Disney while I "live the dream" of running through Disney.  I admire them so much.  

3.  Photo-Ops!  You get exclusive access to characters, and performers along the race route.  This is one of the coolest perks of a RunDisney race.  As long as you can maintain the 16 minute mile you can stop for photos with some of your favorite characters.  There is usually AT LEAST one character per 2 miles.  Plus MOST of the photos are available with any Disney PhotoPass package you've already purchased for the park(this has only happened in the last year).  There is at least one entertainment option per mile, so it really helps keep you motivated.  As the miles get more challenging it seems that they up the entertainment just to keep you motivated.     \

4.  Dance Party all race long.  RunDisney races require a 16 min. mile average, which means you can practically dance the entire duration of the race.  They also have amazing music playing all race long.  It's usally at the half mile marks, so its always motivating when you hear that bass every half mile"ish".  They also supply the punch for the dance party.  All along the race route are Powerade and Water stations.  The volunteers at those stations are the best and such great motivators.

5.  THE BEST finisher medals in the world.  These things are so blingy, and heavy, and truly the best things ever.  It's even better when you complete an additional "challenge" and earn extra medals.  Disneyland offered dual medals for finishing a 10k & half marathon.  Disney World & Disneyland Paris also have these medals in addition to several more.  Paris offers a special medal if you complete the Paris half, and then another half in Florida or California(Castle to Chateau).  Disney World offers the most medals by far.  In addition to the 10k and half medal, they also have a medal for completing the half & full marathon(Goofy Challenge).  I completed my Goofy Challenge in 2013, and have no desire to do it again.  The most coveted Disney World medal by far is the Dopey Challenge medal.  You get this gem by completing the Goofy Challenge(half & full marathons), as well as the 5k and 10k.  Seriously!!!  It's 48.6 miles over four days.  My husband was a beast and completed his Dopey Challenge in 2016.  It was amazing!  The final medal  you can earn is actually not currently available since Disneyland is on hiatus.  It is called the Coast to Coast Challenge.  You get this medal by completing at least a half martahon in both Disneyland and Disney World within the same calendar year.  I've earned  this gem twice.  You feel so special(and slightly crazy) for earning this one.

There are a few cons to RunDisney but I have NEVER let those get in the way, so I won't waste too much space here.  The cons are cost, the amount of people, and the sad reality that your registration does not include park tickets.  BUT.....

RunDisney is an amazing experience.  It's such a motivator for being healthy at home.  I think about how much I want to do well at a RunDisney race and I work harder.  I've done several other races and nothing keeps me motivated or happier than a RunDisney race.  It's worth every bit of sweat and money to complete a RunDisney race.  I fully recommend it.

"Fancy" dining with a toddler

Our family loves to eat out.  We love trying new places, especially while on vacation and feeling like "foodies".  We love to go to casual places, quick service places, and even fine dining.  We recently wanted to try out a new Italian restaurant.  It wasn't "casual" dining, but it also wasn't what I would consider "fine" dining either.  It's a NICE restaurant.  We also have a 2 and a half year old.  Why do I tell you this?  Well, we like to take our toddler with us when we go out to eat.  Sure, if it's a special occasion or we just need a date, we won't take him, but we enjoy exposing him to all different kinds of food, and environments.

I understand that many people don't like taking their kids out to eat, let alone to a "nice" place.  I respect and understand why you do it, but we enjoy taking our kid.  We find that he is quick to assimilate to the atmosphere, and he also enjoys the adventure of dining out.  We know that not every kid can do this, so we do consider ourselves lucky.  (Let it be known that our kid still has a hard time some times and we are not afraid to leave and pick up Chik-fil-a instead).  We love giving him these experiences.  He's also a charmer with many of the servers.  He is learning that you can't just color at every restaurant, and how to be a "good boy" at a variety of locations.  I see many benefits to exposing him to our "foodie" world.

On the other hand, I'm not completely sure that restaurants are ready for us when they see us walk in with our RESERVED party of 3.  I understand that many places have policies with not allowing kids in, and I respect that.  We save those places for date nights.  I always research the place before we head in, so I know what to expect.  There are 4 things I research before taking our kid somewhere new.  These 4 things usually give me a sense of whether or not they will "survive" us coming in with a kid.

1.  Menu.  Does the menu have an additional kids menu?  Easy.  If you are listing kid options anywhere on your menu, I'm bringing him in.

2. Timing of my Visit.   I always consider WHEN we will be heading to that restaurant.  If I come to a "nice" place at 5:00 on a weekday I'm not usually concerned.  I'm of the mindset that if I bring my kid in with me to an establishment during a slow time they are probably just happy we are there waiting to give them money.  Pompous?  Maybe, but I do know enough about the restaurant business to say they don't want to turn you away during a slow time. 

3.  High Chairs.  If you've got them, you expect them to be utilized.   

4.  Reviews. If we are heading to an established restaurant I always check YELP to see what reviews say about kids.  YELP also has a feature called "good for kids" "good for families".  If they say YES, easy answer.  If they are still really new and I'm unable to find any information on their website, I will call or email.  

If you're on the fence of whether or not to take your child to a certain place, I say do it.  Take them.  It will be good for them.  I think it is a great learning experience for your kid.  At that "nice" Italian restaurant I could tell they were nervous when we walked in.  I reminded them that I requested a highchair in my reservation, and our son was well behaved.  By the end of the meal our server was ready to take him home.  He thanked her politely, and even kissed her hand.  He truly is a charmer. They were no longer concerned that we had a toddler with us.  We enjoyed our meal, and the restaurant enjoyed our son.  It was a great experience.   

Build your own Adventure: Hawaii

I was recently asked what we did in Hawaii and how I decided what to do.  So, I decided to spotlight our trip and how I "built" it.  I plan on doing this with future adventures as well to give you a sneak pick into the madness in my head that helps me plan our vacations.

Itinerary: 6 Days on Oahu, Hawaii

Who:  Just the grown ups (2)

When: November 2017 (our 5 year wedding anniversary)

Details:

Day 1:  We flew out on Delta midday using our reward points, so we arrived around 3:30 local time.  We rented our sweet ride, and were off.    Roads were busy so we decided to head straight for our accommodations.  Sure, I had planned for us to go to Diamond Head, but I'm really good at over planning, and being okay with dropping stuff(usually).  We used AirBNB after quite an adventure. It was a great location in the Financial District of Honolulu.  We loved it. There is a 3 hour time difference and we had also just switched off of daylight savings so it felt like 4 hours, so we were hungry and ready for some sleep.  We pulled up YELP (which I always use) and found a pizza place(Brick Fire Tavern) within walking distance.  They had the best breadstick dipping sauce, and it was free when we checked in on YELP.  The rest of the night we watched cabletv because we don't have it at home.  We love watching Chopped on Food Network if you're curious. 

Day 2: We woke up early and refreshed, ready for the day.  We spent all of this day at Pearl Harbor. It was such a fun way to start Hawaii.  Arizona, Missouri, Aviation Museum, and the Bowfin.  All of it!!!  I had purchased our  "Passport" tickets on the government website before hand.  When we arrived they switched our Arizona time(which is assigned) to an earlier time, which we appreciated.  In the late afternoon we hit up the local Costco(because that's the best thing to do)  for snacks, and souvenirs.  After that we decided to go to the local movie theater to see Thor. (Listen, it's much easier to see a movie while on vacation knowing that you don't have to worry about your kid.)  We hadn't planned on going to the movie, but it was awesome.  It was also totally overpriced compared to theaters at home, but it was "part of the experience".  For dinner we went to a local Hawaiian restaurant.  It was super tasty, and completely local.

Day 3: Finally after only seeing the ocean from afar, we got ourselves to Hanauama Bay for a day of snorkeling.  This place was educational, and super fun.  So many reefs and fish to see.  I recommend this for anyone.  Whether you're with your kids or just on a romantic couples trip, this place is amazing.  We tested out our new full face snorkels and had a great time.  The one huge bummer of this days was losing one of my diamond ears.  These earrings never fall out, except for this day of course.  My husband lovingly refers to me as Marie Antoinette now because WHO WEARS DIAMONDS TO GO SNORKELING?  We tried our first shave ice of Hawaii at Uncle Clay's House of Pure Aloha.  (This one was my favorite of all we tried while on the island)  Our evening was one not to be missed.  We drove ourselves over to Aulani for dinner.  I've been so excited to go here because of my obvious love of Disney, but I was not about to fork over fistfuls of cash to stay here.  We had dinner at their character dinner called Menehune Mischief.  The food was okay, but you eat here for the characters.  I had read so many reviews and wasn't disappointed because I knew what to expect.  We also got to walk around the resort and see the cool pools and bay for hotel guests.  It was comforting to know that I wasn't missing anything crazy by not staying there.  Eating dinner included free valet for 4 hours, and that was exactly enough time.  

Day 4: We had an early morning start.  We were up at 5:15 for an early morning dive north.  And, when I say dive...I mean with SHARKS.  I knew that while we were in Hawaii we had to swim with sharks.  I set out researching companies long before I booked any.  I wanted a company who would give us a great experience, and keep us safe.  I also wanted a company who could handle a girl who always gets sea sick.  I'm a certified scuba diver, and I throw up at least once every trip.  I know I have a problem with the sea, but I don't let it keep me away(I'll keep the rest of the details for another post.)  I had read that the water was super "wavy", so I wanted a company who could help a girl out.  North Shore Adventures had great reviews and I had also talked with a friend who has used them in the past.  It did not disappoint.  I completely stand beside the other great reviews.  If there is interest in the details of this trip, I can do that later.  I certainly got sick, and they took great care of me. The experience was amazing, and I recommend this to anyone who wants to brave it and swim with sharks.  I had packed this day, so even though I wasn't feeling well....we had more to see and do.  We had a little brunch at a local burrito shop called Kono's.  This place was amazing, even on a sick stomach.  We then headed for the Dole Plantation.  I had read so many reviews stating that it is a  simple tourist trap.  I completely agree and I have no intentions of returning, BUT I think if you've never been to Hawaii you should still go.  Do the train ride, that's it.  Everything else was mediocre.  We then headed back to the North Shore where we spent some time on the beach, ate Matsumoto's Shave Ice(a close 2nd in my opinion), and bought some Coconut Peanut Butter at North Shore Goodies.  This stuff is magical, and if I have any friends heading to Hawaii, I would like to put my request in now for more of this stuff.  We also hit up Giovanni's Shrimp Truck(the famed shrimp truck) and although I would die(allergic) if I imbibe, Paul loved it.  As busy as this day was, we still got back to our place before 6, where we both passed out for the night.

Day 5:  After an awesome night sleep we were up early again and ready to head up north again.  This time to the LDS temple, and the Polynesian Cultural Center.  I had been anticipating this day because I had heard so many great things about the PCC.  After reading so many reviews, and talking with friends I decided to purchase the VIP Prime package.  This meant that we had access to a group guide, prime seating for the night time show Ha, and we got a fancy dinner that included crab and prime rib.  My husband loved it!!!  Having a personal guide throughout the day was super helpful because we didn't have to miss shows or walk around lost all day long.  I wish we had another day there, but now I have a great excuse to go back.  Our guide Marty from the Philippines was hilarious, and helpful.  His dream (at the age of 20ish) is to come to Salt Lake City.  It was humbling to hear his desire to VISIT a place I get to call home, all while he's "stuck" for the next few years in what I would consider paradise.  I know I live in a great state, but it was a great reminder to "love where you are".

Day 6:  Our final day on the island was planned as a chill day, so we made it so.  We woke up at a reasonable time and headed for the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet.  It's worth checking out if you are looking for a bargain, or last minute gift ideas.  We went on a Sunday so there were also tons of locals.  It's a hoarders dream.  So much STUFF.  Paul picked out an awesome dress for me, and we got a few souvenirs.  Luckily we got there so early that we had great parking and were in and out within 2 hours.  We spent the remainder of the day at Magic Island.  It's a perfect little bay where locals and tourists can just chill.  The waves aren't too big, and you can keep a close eye on your kids.  I really started to miss our little buddy watching all of the kids play.  We ate more Shave Ice and just chilled.  At the end of the day we headed to Diamond Head for dinner.  We ate at the local favorite Rainbow Drive-In. I thought it was the perfect Sunday night dinner, especially before a flight.  It was full of Hawaiian comfort food.  Tasty and delicious.  We attempted to get Shave Ice one more time from another favorite, but after driving there and feeling like we were in Downtown Manhattan, we just left and headed for the airport.  Once at the airport we relaxed, charged our phones, and prepared for the direct red eye flight home.

It was an amazing trip.  One that I had planned for a year.  It was the perfect combination of educational, adventurous, and relaxing.  I'm so glad that we have plans to return, except this time we bring Buddy, spend more time at the beach, and make more time at the PCC.  I also want to "hop" to another island.  I'm taking suggestions now.....