nosh clean. nurture your soul.
  • HOME
  • NOSH
  • NURTURE
    • Homesteading
    • Homeschooling
  • TRAVEL
    • Book Your Disney Travel
    • All Travel Posts
  • The Clean Plate
  • ABOUT
  • CONTACT

luxury family travel x nosh & nurture

Visiting Williams, AZ - A Trip For Nature, Nostalgia and Nurturing Connection

5/16/2022

0 Comments

 
The Spring of 2021 brought such an exuberant breath of fresh air when we started to travel again. We bought our first RV, (YAAAAAAAAY!) and were able to take Lexi on a few of her first few vacations! 

2020 felt like such a pressing year. One of refinement and frustration with many days of cabin fever and travel dreaming. 

Even through the hardships, there were also many moments of gratitude and family connection. We welcomed our sweet daughter, celebrated her first holidays, celebrated Grey turning 4, celebrated Grey graduating Pre-K and beginning our homeschool elementary school journey and many more sweet moments in between. 

Once the temps started creeping up in Phoenix, it was time to head North for some  cooler weather and I wanted to share one of our very favorite spots. 

Picture
Picture


Williams, AZ has so many things to do for families with kids of all ages. We call it our destination for nature, nostalgia and nurturing connection with one another. Below I share my Top 10 Activities to do in Williams, where we stayed and a collection of our favorite photos! 
Picture
Picture

TOP 10 ACTIVITIES FOR FAMILIES IN WILLIAMS, AZ

Updated January 2022 with the opening of the new coaster park!
  1. Bearizona - Drive Thru - Our FAVORITE place to visit in Williams (and one of our top in Arizona) is Bearizona. The Drive-Thru portion is filled with grizzly bears, wolves, bison and more up close. It is worth every penny!
  2. Bearizona - Walk Thru - In addition to the drive-thru portion, your ticket price also allows you a full day inside the zoo. Food trucks line the entrance and we enjoyed an allergen-friendly mexican lunch that was a 10/10! A wide array of animal exhibits, eateries and shopping. This is always a MUST DO for our trips up to Northern Arizona. 
  3. The Canyon Coaster - Brand new in 2022 the Canyon Coaster is built directly into the mountainside and spans several acres along the natural curvatures of the mountain. This thrill ride stretches over one mile on a stainless-steel-tube track that has all the bells and whistles of a roller coaster such as steep descents, hairpin turns, and 360-degree corkscrews.
  4. Grand Canyon Deer Farm - Get up close and personal with adorable woodland animals including deer, goats, camels and peacocks for a truly one of a kind, educational experience. 
  5. Route 66 - One of our favorite things to do, day or night, is visit Route 66 with the kids. We grab old fashion ice cream, grab dinner (I found amazing GF/DF food at Station 66 Italian Bistro), visit all of the fun shops and more. One of my favorite memories was shopping with Grey for authentic salt water taffy, something my dad took me to do when I was young.) 
  6. Grand Canyon Go Kart Racing - This is an activity at the Circle Pines KOA that is open to the public. We missed out on catching them when they were open but kids are able to ride and it looks very well kept and really fun! 
  7. Planes of Fame Air Museum - Have kids that love airplanes as much as we do? The Planes of Fame Air Museum is a nice way to enjoy a little time indoors if the temps are chilly when you are visiting. 
  8. Snow Play Areas - Williams, AZ is a beautiful place in Arizona to visit for snow. There are many snow play areas, including an area near the Canyon Coaster where you can rent inner tubes to take down the hills. 
  9. Grand Canyon Railroad - A fun item on our travel list is to take the kids on an authentic train ride and this one tops our list. Expect 65 miles of scenic woodlands on this four and a half hour train ride. 
  10. Circle Pines RV Park Activities - For those of you adventuring to Williams in your RV, Circle Pines is the most popular RV spot. An official KOA, it offers many of the amenities and activities I've listed below that are great for kids of all ages. 

We stayed at the Williams Circle Pines KOA with our RV and though it wasn't a top favorite on our favorite campsite list - it did have quite a few fun activities for kids!

Some of the activities include: miniature golf, big jumping pillow, playground, bike trails, gold panning, go-kart racing and an on-site store and eatery. 

Just make sure you check the schedule of events of when you are staying as some of the activities have odd days and hours. We thought we'd be able to Go Kart race during our four day stay and we unfortunately were unable to try that out. It's definitely on our list for our next trip as Grey is old enough and tall enough to ride and we think he would LOVE it. 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture

Have you made a trip down Route 66 or visited Williams, AZ with your family? We would love to know your favorites that we may have missed before we head back!


0 Comments

Springtime Menu at First Watch

4/25/2022

0 Comments

 
This past weekend we were invited to the leading daytime dining concept, First Watch. And it didn't disappoint. In fact, their attention to detail, safe kitchen practices for our food allergy and sensitivity concerns, customer service and taste quality were unmatched. 

With locations nationwide, First Watch mixes fresh, premium, better-for-you ingredients with a true farmhouse feel throughout their establishments and we can't wait to go back!

Below we reviewed the entire new seasonal Spring Menu as well as listed our favorite GF/DF selections. 
Picture
Picture


​What's been added?


Available through May 29th, 2022 the Spring Menu is a drool-worthy selection of decadent brunch favorites. Additions include:
​
  • Chorizo Sunrise Sandwich
  • Crab Cake Benedict
  • Million Dollar Bacon
  • Shrimp and Grits
  • Pineapple Express 
  • and more! 
Picture
Picture
Picture

What were our favorites?

We sampled the entire Spring Menu and nothing disappointed. We each had our own favorite! Our son Greyson (5) loved the Million Dollar Bacon and snagged some to accompany his pancakes. My husband now craves the Chorizo Sunrise Sandwich and I could drink a Pineapple Express every day. It tastes like a spring sunrise in a glass.  

Even our sweet babe Lexi (1) kept asking "more 'tatoes! more 'tatoes!"
Picture
Picture

Special dietary needs? No problem!

As someone who is gluten-free and dairy-free I was pleasantly surprised not only by their selections, but my server and the kitchens knowledge of how to safely prepare and handle my food. 

I enjoyed a Traditional Breakfast with my cage-free eggs scrambled, breakfast potatoes, bacon (seriously, we couldn't get enough of their bacon!) and gluten-free  toast! 
Picture
Picture

The extra mile...

It was the details for me. 

I ordered coffee to accompany my meal and they brought me, not only a dairy-free creamer, but one of the BEST coffee creamers available. So good, I had to snap a picture. 
Picture

At First Watch, it's about so much more than a meal. It's about atmosphere, detail, kindness, service and warmth. 

The food just also happens to be incredible. 

Have you enjoyed brunch at First Watch? What will you be sampling first off of their Spring menu? Let me know in the comments below! 
0 Comments

Gluten Free Guide to Disney California Adventures Food and Wine Festival 2022

3/6/2022

0 Comments

 
Picture


Darling Disney fans! 

Hello hello! This is my first official Disney post since launching our Disney IG 'Mini Ears Travel' and I am EXCITED to get back to traveling with our sweet family and taking you all along for all of our adventures. 

Today I wanted to bring you a guide to all of the YUMMY and DELICIOUS gluten-free finds at Disneyland's California Adventure Parks Food and Wine Festival. 

And for you who are here for all things travel and can partake in ALL the goodies - I have my husband and sons favorites mapped out below as well! 

Fun Fact: Doug proposed at EPCOT's Food and Wine Festival in 2010 in front of the Eiffel Tower and I had NO IDEA it was coming. 


But I know you didn't come here for the romantic flashbacks, you came here for THE FOOD. So below I have compiled a list of what us gluten-free foodies can safely enjoy at the festival going on from March 4th-April 26th as well as what each member of our family is MOST excited to try! 
Picture

GLUTEN-FREE SELECTION AT THE FESTIVAL:

I spoke with Disney directly and this was the list of Gluten-Free options available at the time of the start of the festival. A few dishes have been added that are notated as new below. And while I didn't get confirmation that they are gluten-free, they are noted that allergy-friendly options are available. So as always, please speak with a chef to be safe. ​
LA Style Booth:
Mezcaleros Ancho Sandia Margarita (Alcoholic)
Sake Melon '75 (Alcoholic)


D-Lish Booth:

Central California Cooler (non-Alcoholic)


Nuts About Cheese Booth:
SNICKERS Caramel-Peanut Milk Chocolate Mickey Macaron (includes dairy)


UnCork California Booth:
California Artisan Cheese Selection (no crackers, includes dairy)
Tropical Mimosa Flight (Alcoholic)


Peppers Cali-ente Booth:
Aji de Gallina (includes dairy)
Cantarito- style Paloma (Alcoholic)


I Heart Artichokes Booth:

Passionfruit Rum Cocktail (Alcoholic)


Avocado Time Booth:
Ruby Grapefruit Sparkling Beverage (non-Alcoholic)


Golden Dreams:
Honey-Orange glazed Verlasse Salamon Salad
Mango Carrot Gazpacho
Orange Honey Cold Brew (non-Alcoholic)
Pineapple-Tiki Bitter Cocktail (Alcoholic)


Cluck-a-Doodle-Moo Booth:
Blackberry Lavender Lemonade (non-Alcoholic)


Garlic Kissed Booth:

Grilled Top Sirloin 
Picture
I can't go on with what we are most excited to try without mentioning the Sip & Savor Pass. Getting the most value and allowing you a "passport" book if you will to try multiple items at a lower cost, its the best deal. It includes eight entitlement tabs redeemable for select food and nonalcoholic beverages at Festival Marketplaces and tasting-size portions at participating dining locations.

Guests 21 and over can also choose to purchase an array of creative and artistic alcoholic beverages as well. 

Ok, now on to what we will be trying on our trip! And make sure you follow along on Instagram at @miniearstravel to watch our adventures and hear our food reviews! 

Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture

We are SO excited to take you along on our adventure, make sure to follow along March 27-30th to see us sip and savor all the goodies live! 

Are you in the parks for the festival this year? Is so, we'd love to see what you loved. 

Leave in the comments below what you want to see us try! 
0 Comments

Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller- Our Top Baby Travel Must Have

7/22/2021

0 Comments

 
Tracking Pixel
I partnered with Ergobaby to share our experience with our favorite item for traveling with baby. 

Traveling with a baby or young children always poses a new set of scenarios to work through when it comes to packing and planning. Where will baby sleep? Do we bring the crib, rent a crib or co-sleep at our hotel? Will I have the right layers for baby if the weather changes? Did we pack enough diapers? Will the destination have foods our baby and toddler will eat or do I need to pack meals? The list can be lengthy.

One of the biggest questions that we found the perfect solution for was, "what is the best way for baby to get around that also allows us to get around with ease?" 
Enter the Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller

​This stroller arrived previous to our latest family vacation and I have to say it's one of the BEST additions to our family - a family who is always on the go, either by travel or exploring our home town.


Why do I give this piece of genius engineering the top spot on our travel or baby must-haves? Allow me to share my seven favorite features with you today!
Picture
Picture


All The Reasons I Love Our Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller
​

  1. It's compact size. This stroller is truly a magnificent feat of engineering. We were always looking for a stroller that we could take easily on airplanes (it fits into the airplane's overhead bin!), shuttles, small car rentals and the theme park buses multiple times a day (if you know you know).

  2. It's ease of movability. It glides easily, is lightweight to push and makes the perfect choice for small shopping places, busy theme parks or along the beaches’ two-lane boardwalks. 

  3. Comfort for baby. The Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller is THE MOST comfortable ultra-compact stroller on the market. I feel good about the fact that Lexi is truly comfortable.  

  4. Storage Space. For such a compact baby must-have, the under stroller storage space was truly impressive. When we're exploring the zoo, finding thrills at a theme park or enjoying a Sunday at the farmers market, we love a space to be able to store snacks, the diaper bag and some toys. This accommodates all of our needs. 

  5. Sleek Design. I'm a mom who also likes her baby items to look fashionable and work with our home. The sleek design of the Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller isn't too flashy for when we are out and about and I like that. 

  6. The adjustable leg rest. This was PERFECT for naptime strolls. When we travel, many naps are taken on the go and we haven't found a more comfortable stroller for those midday snoozes. The design is a true flat recline with an included adjustable leg rest.

  7. The large sunshade. The sunshade extends down over the baby, providing shade and quiet for those restful periods. It also comes with a fully enclosed weather shield – which I thought was a wonderful touch and something I didn’t have to buy in addition. 
And don't just take my word for it, even Lexi had a few sweet words to say about it. 


​But seriously, look how compact!
Picture
Picture

We recently took the Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller to a local resort for a poolside weekend staycation and it was wonderful to navigate the restaurants and resort grounds. I loved that it took up very little footprint of our hotel room and was a soft, cozy place for Lexi to sleep. The adjustable leg rest turns the stroller into a perfect portable sleeping space and the large sunshade gave much needed shade from the sun. 

We are excited to take it with us this summer to the beach and on our many adventures! I will share our adventures along the way right here on the blog! 
Picture
For all of the information on the Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller, where to purchase and all of the reviews, click here.
Do you have a favorite must-have for travel with baby? Share in the comments below!
This post is sponsored by Ergobaby.
0 Comments

A Sizzling Summer At We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort

7/3/2021

1 Comment

 
We were honored to be invited out for a weekend stay at the reimagined We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort. This post is sponsored and all opinions and experience are our own. 

Picture
This past weekend, our family celebrated summer with delicious dining, adventure and fun in the sun at the newly reimagined We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort. We wanted to share our experience, and this gem in the desert, with all of you. 

You can read all about our first stay at the AAA Four Diamond Hotel when it was just the three of us here. 

Located right outside of Fountain Hills, AZ in Fort McDowell, the location has stunning mountain views and is far enough from the noise of the city that it feels like a real retreat. 

On Friday evening, we checked in to the lavish atrium lobby and we were greeted by the friendliest staff, snacks and water. You could hear tropical sounds of live music by the pool which transported us right into our weekend staycation away from home. 
Picture

​Our Junior Golf Suite was spacious and beautiful and it's the perfect room if you're traveling with a family or small children. With a mini kitchen - complete with a refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher and coffee maker, it made it so easy to eat a few of our meals in the room, reheat leftovers or store milk for the baby. 

We also sometimes travel with our teenage niece to allow her to travel more before she begins college and she loves playing with and helping out with the kids. While the living space was a great place for us to watch movies and play board games - the large pull-out sofa in the living area was super comfortable and the perfect place for her to sleep and have her own space.

The king bedroom was large enough to accommodate our family of four (our kindergartner sleeps with us and I brought the babies crib) and the bathroom was spacious with a great shower and high end amenities to make you feel pampered. 

Below is a room tour to give you an up-close feel. 
The stunning and tranquil desert property features 246 contemporary, elegantly appointed guestrooms and suites that artfully blend stylish décor with exceptional amenities. All 100% smoke-free rooms boast spectacular mountain or pool views, as well as free high-speed wireless Internet, free self-parking, luxurious linens, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, coffeemakers and in-room safes.
Picture
Picture
,
While the room gave us a home away from home, it was the activities and dining that made our weekend truly stellar. Aside from the activities I'm going to speak on below the resort is first and foremost known for their newly redesigned We-Ko-Pa Casino which enjoyed its grand reopening October 2020. 

The stunning smoke-free casino is open 24/7 and features 850 multi-dimensional slot machines, a 400-seat bingo hall with 50-inch monitors, 22 action-packed blackjack tables, and a spacious poker room featuring five tables with live games and tournaments. 

​The sophisticated new casino replaces the original Fort McDowell Casino that initially opened in 1984 as a bingo hall. Eight years later, the proud Yavapai Nation peacefully – and successfully – held off the attempts of federal agents to seize their slot machines, protecting their right to operate a casino on their reservation and provide livelihoods for their tribal members.
..."to provide livelihoods for their tribal members". It is the heart of the company and the family feel that really shined for us. We were given a tour by the Executive Director of Resort Operations, Ricky Borja Jr. who drove that point home even further. 

As we wrapped up our thorough tour he said, "We are presenting luxury as it pertains to each individual. Whether that means white glove, in-person service or automated service where the consumer can feel empowered to check themselves in and have a distanced digital experience - the freedom of choice to the consumer is the ultimate luxury, and that's what we offer."

I was also in awe of the various projects and branches of the We-Ko-Pa company and family and the way they secure work for so many members of their community. More on this can be found at www.FMYN.org. 

Also known for their WeKoPa Golf Club, which features two award-winning courses, incredible live music and various activities through Fort McDowell Adventures, there are so many options to building an itinerary no matter the season your family is in. From the youngest visitors to the more mature audiences, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. 

While traveling with little ones (our kids are young, 4 1/2 years and 7 months respectively), my husband and I always try to squeeze in one adult activity. Whether that means having someone watch the kids so we can grab a drink or enjoy a high-end dinner, or take turns with the babies to allow the other to take an hour or so away, it makes our vacation still feel luxurious while not having to leave our family for too long. 


As for my activity this trip, I chose to get a massage at their boutique spa - Amethyst, named for the gems mined in the nearby Four Peaks Mountains. My therapist, Loree, was incredible and made me feel relaxed for the rest of my stay. You can choose from a menu of services from reflexology and massages to facials and nail services. ​
Picture
Picture
As for my husband, he revisited Fort McDowell Adventures and opted for a 3-hour ATV tour to which he says "was thrilling and so much fun!" He mirrored the same to me, in that the feeling of friendliness and care of the customers experience was  apparent and valued. 

Other adventures include horseback rides, cowboy cookouts, desert Segway tours, kayaking, and guided mountain bike and hiking tours – there is even an authentic City Slicker Cattle Drive.

We have shared a small snippet below of Doug's day in the desert with Fort McDowell Adventures - more information on booking your own  personal or group tour can be obtained at www.fortmcdowelladventures.com.  
Picture


Our favorite family activity during summer travels is always the pool! Cool inviting waters are always the best way to beat the heat in the summer. The live music was fun and transported me back to cruise ship living and the Caribbean while the smoothies from the drink bar kept us cool. Make sure to hit the pool early on warm days to snag a seat! We got to the pool around 1pm after lunch and we got the last chairs available. 

The sparkling water was so inviting, and you can also find putting greens and cornhole. I wish we would have had more days to lounge, swim and enjoy! It was a true haven from the intense heat of June in Arizona.

Also, how adorable in Lexi in her resort pool wear?
Picture
Picture
Picture

Saving the best for last, the dining was exceptional! With many on-site dining options from their casual quick-serve market inside the casino to the high-end Ember, it was fun to try out and visit all the spots!

For our breakfast dining and for our dinner the first evening we dined at Ahnala. We loved every dish and I've shared what we ordered below. I also made note of the dishes that were gluten and dairy free since that is what I always need when I'm traveling and what I always promise to bring to you all so you can feel safe traveling too!

BREAKFAST

Picture
The restaurant is located right off of the hotels atrium and has beautiful views!
Picture
Eggs, Gluten-Free Toast, Hashbrowns and Avocado for my GF/DF meal.
Picture
Grey opted for decadence on his vacation and ordered the kid's meal Belgian waffle.
Picture
The Oatmeal Bowl was large enough to feed two so Lexi loved sharing! It was also GF/DF and safe for me

DINNER

Picture
One of the best dinners I've had in a long time. GF/DF safe, their Rib-Eye steak was served with a baked potato and asparagus. The wine was also devine!
Picture
Our niece ordered the chicken and vegetables and it did not dissapoint! And aside from the fries, this dish is also GF/DF.
Picture
Also a GF option, my husband ordered their steak street tacos and said they were delicious! You can also opt for chicken.
Picture
The boys were excited to share this dessert and it was almost too pretty to eat!

On our second and last evening at the resort we headed to WKP Sports and Entertainment which was a contrasting atmosphere to Ahnala. Where Ahnala was serene and relaxing with views of the beautiful tribal-inspired atrium, WKP Sports and Entertainment was vibrant, fun and energetic. We enjoyed watching basketball on the big screen, listening to the live band rehearse and the food was beyond incredible for burgers and bar food. They truly took the burger and pizza experience to the next level and we are planning a trip back just to snag a burger and their sweet potato fries! 

Two wonderful experiences to mix it up on vacation!
Picture
They took great care in making my meal safe! A lettuce wrapped burger (the prettiest lettuce I've ever seen!) and homemade potato chips!
Picture
The stars of the evening were the burgers we ordered. Some of the best burgers we've had in Arizona if not THE best. Doug's featured a buffalo sauce onion ring and melty blue-cheese
Picture
Grey ordered the kid's menu pizza and loved that they served it on the wood board just like the grown-ups!
Picture
The salads are large portioned and so crisp and delicious!
Picture

Ember needs to be mentioned because if we had had the chance to have a grown-up dinner date, this would have been a top choice for dining. Exceptional wine selection (one of the best in the world with over 100 centurion wines in house!) - I would have opted for their Jerusalem Artichoke Soup and Filet steak. 

Overall a fantastic and well-rounded family vacation filled with adventure, relaxation, fun and good eats. A favorite stay-cation spot that we will visit again and again!

Visit We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort

One of the many enterprises of the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation, the We-Ko-Pa Casino Resort offers beautiful views of the surrounding Sonoran Desert as well as the sacred Four Peaks mountains (translated as “We-Ko-Pa” in Yavapai.) The casino resort is located off Arizona State Highway 87, within a 30-minute drive of Sky Harbor International Airport and the myriad of attractions, shopping and dining establishments in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area.

                                     www.WeKoPaCasinoResort.com
1 Comment

California and Florida Theme Park Reopening Dates

6/18/2020

0 Comments

 
This post was posted by my travel affiliate partner Get Away Today. I am sharing this information to inform families of the dates each park plans to reopen. 

After months of closures due to the Covid-19 pandemic, theme parks across the country are starting to reopen with numerous safety precautions in place. It can be a lot to keep track of, so we’ve compiled a list of our most popular Southern California and Florida theme parks with reopening dates. ​


When will theme parks reopen?

With so many reopening dates announced, some pending approval, and other theme parks already opened, it’s hard to keep track of them all. We’ve put together a list of our most popular theme parks in Southern California and Florida to help you know when and where you can go. We’ve also included proposed dates that are awaiting approval for planning purposes. If a firm date is listed, that means the dates have been approved. We have listed all attractions in order of opening date - earliest to latest. 


Picture

To view the schedule of opening dates for Seaworld, Universal, Disney, Knotts and more click through to the full post of dates here. 


To get discounted tickets, rooms and vacation packages, visit my page on Get Away Today here. Use my promo code NURTURE10 for an extra $10 off any vacation package. 
0 Comments

Adventures From Home (with movies and more!) When You Can't Travel

4/13/2020

0 Comments

 
This post is part of a social shopper marketing insight campaign with Pollinate Media Group® and Universal Pictures Home Entertainment, but all my opinions are my own. #pmedia #DolittleAtWalmart
http://my-disclosur.es/OBsstV

There are many seasons in life that can put a pause on travel and taking adventures with our family. Pregnancy and the early days of newborn life, illness, finances or work obligations or if it's the Spring of 2020, a global pandemic that keeps us all home. 

During times like these, especially for a travel-loving family like ourselves, we like to get creative with ways we can still experience thrills and adventure right in our own home and yard, and today I'd like to share some of those ideas with you. 
Picture

​Finding Adventure Through Film -

​This is our very favorite way to visually experience adventure right at home. Movies have a magical way of transporting you to other worlds and time periods and spark the imaginations of young and old. Our latest adventure took place alongside Dr. Dolittle in the Dolittle DVD we picked up at Walmart. 

Dolittle allowed us to walk the rolling green hills of Europe, sail grand adventures in the sea aboard his ship and converse with majestic wild animals. My son, as well as the rest of our family, laughed, cried and had a true adventure in a whimsical world. 

Dolittle DVD is now available at Walmart and on Walmart.com on DVD or Blu-Ray +DVD + Digital Code. You can also grab your other movie essentials like popcorn, candy, meals and more. For busy mamas, you can use the Walmart Pickup Service too which is so easy to use!  We love this during any season of life and it's especially handy now. 
Picture

Other ideas to capture adventure include...

  • Books That Transport You - Like film, books have their own way of transporting you to far off worlds, meeting strange and wonderful people and places. I love reading classic novels to even our little toddler to help him to develop a love for stories and adventure of all kinds. I also love to get lost in a good novel and always have at least 3 on my night stand at all times. 

  • A Camping Excursion (Right In Your Own Backyard) - This is one of our favorite weekend activities when we can't go far. We are blessed to live on an acre of land at the new farmhouse, but your yard needn't be large to make this a fun and exciting adventure! Throw up the tent, put on a fire, roast some s'mores and come up with some fun stories to share. With the smell of roasting marshmallows, the blanket of stars above you and the cool chill of sleeping in a cozy sleeping bag, you'll feel as if you're really in the great outdoors. 

  • Flavors Of The World - As a food creator with a little guy who loves to create alongside me, sometimes we make a themed menu to transport us to other cities around the globe. Try a Moroccan menu when you can eat with your hands and get a little messy. Or a Parisian menu for an evening of whimsy. Italian pizza nights are always a blast too! It's easy for kids to make their own pizzas or you can create your own pasta bowls. Get creative! ​You can even go a step further and play music to match your destination or decorate your living room or kitchen to have the vibe of the city you're "dining in".

Walmart also carries supplies for all of these adventures! From a large book selection for all ages, to camping gear and food items for any menu, it makes shopping for all of our adventures so simple. 

​
Picture
Picture

How do you find adventure with your family when you're home? I'd love to hear your ideas? If you try any ideas listed here, post your comments and photos below! I'd love to see! 
0 Comments

'Comic X' Marks The Spot For Superhero Fun In The Valley!

2/20/2020

0 Comments

 
Last weekend we visited a REALLY fun spot in Arizona. We set out to take Grey because of his love of super heroes and Star Wars, but I was surprised with how impressed WE ALL would be. 

​'Comic X' Marks The Spot For Superhero Fun In The Valley! Their motto afterall is "Where superheroes grab a bite!"

The 8,000 sq. ft. venue displays life-size figurines of your favorite heroes and villains and the restaurant feels like a dine-in theme park. The creators of the Comic X space did it justice and didn't miss a detail which made it so fun! 

You can opt to dine downstairs in the eatery to be surrounded by the likes of Joker, Batman, Spider-Man and Slimer from Ghost Busters, just to name a few. Alternatively you can head upstairs to enter the planet of Tatooine and dine amongst your favorte Star Wars characters. Lastly, you can take a seat in the fully-stocked bar, where you will be transported to the Harry Potter train station and the gaming world of Halo. 
Picture

We ordered burgers and fries, but the menu is expansive! From pasta and steaks, to tacos and sandwhiches, there's something for every palette and the prices are reasonable. We expected to see higher prices for the experience factor, but were pleasantly surprised. They were GREAT with my allergy concerns and made me a burger with a gluten-free bun, no cheese, a safe salad and their fries are all GF-safe, made in their own fryer. 

They unfortunately got crummy reviews on Yelp which is why I really wanted to post our own experience. You may well have a different experience than I, however I really wanted to say we had a lovely time. It was clean, fun, magical for our 3 year old and the food was good. We will be going back! We may even host his birthday party there as you can reserve large tables in the upstairs Star Wars decorated section for parties of 10 or more. 

They are working to pare down their wait times by simplifying their menu, as it did take quite a while to get our food, but it was a happening place and there was enough to entertain us such as the decor and the super hero movies and cartoons playing on big screens throughout through the wait so we didn't mind! 
Picture
Picture
Picture

Have you been? What did you nosh on? What was your favorite part of your experience? If you haven't or don't live local, what is your favorite immersive dining experience for families?

Comix X is located in Desert Ridge Marketplace at 21001 N Tatum Blvd #95, Phoenix, AZ 85050. 

More Posts Like This 

Picazzo's in AZ Review
WeKoPa Summer Staycation in Arizona
Snap Kitchen Dallas - Review
0 Comments

Disney Treats & Drinks Guide: Dairy Free In Disneyland

10/17/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture

Hey fellow Disneyland goer, heeeeeeeeey! 

If you've landed here you either

A. Love Disneyland like we do and read blog posts about it like we do.

B. You are headed there and wanted to peruse a guide to dairy free treats in the park for ideas.

or 

C. You have food allergy kiddos, or have food allergies yourself, and you are seeking super safe ways to enjoy treats in the park.

While I wrote this post for all of the above, my heart writes these posts for the families who feel lost while traveling. Who don't know where to begin and need a friend - one who's gone there before and waded in the unknown waters of navigating menus and taking phone calls with park chefs and testing foods for safety. THAT'S where my passion for this comes from. My hope for you is that you will EMBRACE traveling yourself or with your kids. That you will find MANY options of food you can TRULY enjoy EVERY DAY. Not settling for the plainest one or two options on the menu like I did in the start of my journey.

Today, I'm writing a post on our FAVORITE dairy-free park treats and drinks! And because we are 100% gluten-free all of these items are that as well! A more comprehensive allergen-friendly park food guide is in the works, but we had SO much fun staying cool and sampling dairy free beverages, ice creams and treats in Disneyland and California Adventure that I had to share. 


Picture
Picture

All of the dairy-free delicacies are separated by park + land below to make it easy to navigate the parks with this guide.

Picture

Adventureland

  • The famous Dole Whip gets an upgrade at the Tropical Hideaway in Adventureland. You can now get the dairy-free soft serve in traditional pineapple, raspberry or orange. 

  • The TikiJuice bar outside of the TIki Room is still the popular spot to grab a classic Dole Whip. 

Tomorrowland

  • Quench the thirst of your inner space invader with an Alien Ice (available in strawberry or sour apple) at Alien Pizza Planet. 

New Orleans Square

  • The Mint Julep Bar offers a delicious taste of New Orleans with their Watermelon Mint Julep. 

Frontierland

  • Once you exit Winnie The Pooh's ride you'll see a candy and gift shop that offers dairy-free chocolate bars and trail mixes with sweet allergen friendly treats. Enjoy Life sponsors these stations!

Fantasyland

  • Edelweiss Snacks offers frozen fruit slushes. We love the frozen apple juice on a hot day!

  • Maurice's Treats in Fantasyland serves up a Boysen Apple Freeze. A boysenberry and apple popsicle delight. 

Main Street

  • Starbucks can make most lattes and mochas with dairy-free milk. 

Galaxy's Edge

  • Oga's Cantina serves a Tarine Tea - Gold Peak® Unsweetened Tea, Peach, Huckleberry, and Mint. 

  • Probably the most famous dairy-free treat in the parks currently, the Milk Stand in Galaxy's Edge offers fruity Blue Milk and Green Milk. Made with coconut and rice milk, they both carry a different taste profile. We preferred the Blue Milk hands down! 

Toontown

  • We loved heading to Clarabelle's for a Strawberry Fruit Bar when my little guy asked for a popsicle. In addition to being dairy free, they were also SO clean with minimal ingredients. The Olaf Frozen Lemonade Strawberry Bar is also dairy free. 
Picture

Buena Vista Street

  • The Wildberry Lemonade at Carthay Circle is a treat!

Cars Land

  • You can cool down with a Frozen Lemonade or Fillmore's Fuelin' Groovy' All Natural Lemonade with fruit foam over at the Cozy Cone Motel. 

Pixar Pier

  • Adorable Snowman Frosted Treats serves a non-dairy lemon soft serve. 

Pacific Wharf

  • The Tropicool at Rita's Baja Blenders serves up a non-alcoholic drink that looks fit to be served poolside in the Caribbean. 

Hollywood Land

  • At Fairfax Market you can grab a coconut water for hydration and the health benefits. 
Picture
Picture
0 Comments

The Top Ten Reasons We Love the Howard Johnson Anaheim

8/22/2019

1 Comment

 
This post was sponsored in part by the Howard Johnson Anaheim and may contain affiliate links. All opinions are authentic and my own. 
Picture

This past week we took Grey to Disneyland to celebrate his third birthday and we were hosted by the cute + retro Howard Johnson hotel in Anaheim. We were also asked to take over their Instagram, and if you followed along their stories on August 20th, you got to see some amazing behind the scenes fun of our Disney day, including our first trip to Galaxy's Edge and tons of gluten free and dairy free park eats!! 

We had SUCH a good time and I wanted to write a full post on the top ten best parts of the Hojo Anaheim, because there are a few things we would have missed had we not gone looking and I don't want anyone to miss out if they book a stay!

And speaking of booking a stay, I have partnered with them to offer my readers 15% your stay or 20% off if you're an Annual Pass holder! With their already amazing rates, you can't say no to an extra dose of Disney. Read on to see the hotel highlights and snag the code. 
Picture

10. The Proximity To Disneyland

When timed, our walk from our room to the gates of Disneyland was just over seven minutes. That was with 4 of us, including a toddler. Amazing. No shuttle cost, no parking costs. 

If someone in your party can't walk that distance or if there is inclement weather, there IS a shuttle available from the HoJo Anaheim for a very low and reasonable rate. 

9. The Perfect Instagram Photo and Cute Merch

Have you eyed cuuuuuute photos taken in the oversized orange HoJo chair? Now YOU and your fam can hop in and say "cheeeeese". Grey LOVED how big it was and I loved getting cute family photos before even getting into the park. It was fun to be able to send family back home postable pics on our first day in the hotel.
​

8. The Amenities to Make Your Stay Comfortable

As a gluten-free and dairy-free traveler, a kitchen, kitchenette or food prep station is a MUST. We travel often to timeshare resorts or Air B&B's to fit this criteria, however, I was pleasantly suprised to see that the HoJo provided a mini fridge (that was so spacious!), a microwave and a Keurig. I got to start our mornings off with a piping hot cup of coffee (extra flavors, decaf and tea available in the gift shop) and a cup of hot oatmeal and chilled fruit. It was a wonderful start to a busy Disney day! 

The shower was also fantastic (I'm a water pressure and temp snob, haha) and they even provided a cute rubber ducky for Grey for post-park bathtime. 

In addition to in-room amenities, the gift shop was PACKED with goods. From discounted Mickey Ears and cute HoJo shirts to snacks and all the essentials you may have missed while packing. 
Picture

7. The Magic Begins at Check-In

I think I was just as excited as Grey when, upon check-in, the staff greeted him with Disney-worthy enthusiasm, a balloon animal pirate sword and pirate sword! 

Grey said "this vacation is so fun!" on the way to our room, so I knew we were off to a good start. They also had temporary "If I'm Lost" tattoos you could add your number too, which helps gives parents a little more peace of mind 

6. The Retro Remodel

There is something about a retro design that makes being near Disneyland that much better. The HoJo Anaheim's Building One (and soon to be building two, three and so on as they roll out more of the renovation) has implemented a retro design that feels both luxuriously modern as well as vintage, reminiscent of Disney in the sixties. 


Picture

5. The Comfortable Beds

After busy days in Disneyland and at the water park we needed great nights sleep. Their beds, bedding and pillows envelop you and are so extremely comfortable it made it hard to leave to hit the parks early each day. Even my toddler slept wonderful! Thank you HoJo. 

4. The Friendly Staff

From booking our room and checking in, to meeting our needs during our stay and through the check out process, the staff was extremely friendly. With how many customers they serve each day, they always had a smile on their face and were willing to help us with what we needed. 
Picture

3. View of Disneyland + Nightly Fireworks

In the newly renovated Building One, you can request a view of Disneyland. You get a fantastic birds eye view of Matterhorn Mountain and the Guardian's of The Galaxy Tower. 

The first night we checked in we snuggled up on the patio in our jammies and watched the fireworks show and it was amazing.
​

2. The Ease of Booking

It was such a simple booking process and the price was so fair for how close we were to Disneyland! We had our trip booked in under five minutes and we were able to use a fantastic coupon code as Annual Passholders. 

I have that coupon code to share with my friends too, so that you guys can start making your magical memories too! 

Book Your Room at the HoJo Anaheim!
​

Use the code 1000022077 upon check out for 15% off your stay.

If you're an Annual Passholder you can receive 20% off your stay by using the code 1000025935 upon check out. 
Picture
Picture

1. Castaway Cove

This was probably one of the BEST hotel additions I've ever experienced in my 30+ years of traveling. I instantly regretted not booking an extra day outside of visiting Disneyland just so we could relax in our hotel and let Grey enjoy a FULL day at Castaway Cove. The hotels on-site water park for little ones of all ages, he spent a good two hours post check-out before we drove home playing with other guests, swimming and using the fun water features. 
1 Comment
<<Previous
    Picture

    archives

    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    July 2021
    June 2020
    April 2020
    February 2020
    October 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    August 2018
    June 2018
    December 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    February 2016
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    May 2014
    April 2014
    March 2014
    April 2013

    tags

    All
    Arizona
    Baby Items
    Barbados
    California
    Caribbean
    Colorado
    Disneyland
    England
    Ergo
    ErgoBaby
    Europe
    Florida
    Germany
    Hawaii
    International
    London
    Louisiana
    Luxury Travel
    Mexico
    Mini Ears
    Nevada
    Planning
    Restaurant Review
    Staycation
    St. Thomas
    Switzerland
    Texas
    Traveling With Kids
    Travel Must Haves
    Travel Tips
    United States

    RSS Feed

contact

Contact Mandi @ Nosh and Nurture
Advertise @ Nosh & Nurture or The Clean Plate with Mandi 

Picture

about

Nosh & Nurture was born of this journey I am on to better the health of myself, my family and those around me.  What started as a simple compilation of recipes has grown to a all-around lifestyle journal with ways to incorporate organic products into your home, pantry and beauty cabinet.  I also include stories on pregnancy, new motherhood, travel, Proverbs 31 marriage, and spiritual health, as I am a Christian who couldn't do any of this without my Lord & Savior Jesus Christ. For more of my story you can click here. 

All recipes are gluten-free and dairy-free with a lot of soy-free, grain-free, sugar-free options. 

    additional links

Privacy Policy
Disclaimer
FAQ


Find Me Gluten Free - An Amazing App to Help You Find the Best + Safest Gluten Free Eats Anywhere!
Picture
All content herein is owned by Mandi Pimental,Nosh & Nurture and The Clean Plate with Mandi. Pinning images is allowed, however, reposting blogs, recipes, photos or additional content without a link back to NoshandNurture.com is prohibited. 

© 2012-2022 Nosh & Nurture. All Rights Reserved.
Website by Weebly. Photography, Graphics and Content by Mandi Pimental, unless otherwise credited. 
  • HOME
  • NOSH
  • NURTURE
    • Homesteading
    • Homeschooling
  • TRAVEL
    • Book Your Disney Travel
    • All Travel Posts
  • The Clean Plate
  • ABOUT
  • CONTACT