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Celebrating Disney100

1/21/2023

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I think this has been one of of my FAVORITE years to book Disneyland travel for friends and clients! Always a magical time creating memorable vacations for individuals and families, there is just something so special about being back in the parks and celebrating so much NEWNESS and WONDER at the Disneyland Resort. 

2023 brings the Disney100 Celebration and I wanted a one-stop location to share what makes traveling to the Disneyland resort so special. 
Wanting to book Disneyworld or a Disney Cruise? Contact me and we can unlock your dream Disney vacation today.

We are so excited to take our little ones this year to experience the new and immersive Toon Town experience, the new Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway Ride, the new fireworks and water shows, the new tasty treats and so much more.

Read on to see everything Disney100 has in store! Ready to book your Disneyland vacation or looking to see a quote on what that could look like for you and your party? Reach out for a free quote!
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Mickey and Minnies Runaway Railway and the new Toon Town

While Toontown doesn't officially open until March 8th, you can get in on the toon fun early!

Beginning Jan. 27, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse will star in their very first ride-through attraction at the Disneyland Resort!

Inside the El CapiTOON Theater in Disneyland Park, this family-friendly experience transports guests into the wacky and unpredictable cartoon world of Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, where Guests will board a train engineered by Goofy and embark on a zany adventure.

As of now, the ONLY WAY to experience Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway when the attraction opens, is through Disneyland's complimentary virtual queue*, which is only accessible via the Disneyland app.

There will not be a standby line for this attraction at this time. The virtual queue enrollment times will be twice daily, at 7 a.m. and 1 p.m. PT. Learn more by contacting me or at Disneyland.com. Guests may also get quicker entry to this attraction with the purchase of an individual Lightning Lane arrival window, subject to availability.
When Toontown opens this March, the beloved land will feature more play activities and attractions than ever before, as well as grassy play spaces for you to unwind.
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World of Color "ONE" and Wondrous Journeys

World Of Color "ONE" is an all-new nighttime spectacular at Disney California Adventure Park celebrates the storytelling legacy started by Walt Disney, illustrating how a single action, like a drop of water, creates a ripple that can grow into a wave of change. This is the first Disneyland Resort nighttime spectacular to feature characters, music and moments from Walt Disney Animation Studios, Pixar Animation Studios, the Avengers and Star Wars in the same production. Here is a sneak peek at the new show from Disney Live Entertainment!

Guests will be able to access the viewing area for “World of Color – ONE” through the virtual queue system* available only via the Disneyland app. Distribution for the complimentary virtual queue will begin at 12 p.m. PT, daily (subject to availability) and is available for guests who have entered Disney California Adventure Park for the day or have entered Disneyland Park with a Park Hopper ticket. More information and how-to details are available on Disneyland.com. Joining the virtual queue is not required, but it is highly recommended as walk-up viewing options for each performance are available on a first-come, first-served basis.


Each evening at Disneyland Park, “Wondrous Journeys” transforms Main Street, U.S.A., Sleeping Beauty Castle, the façade of “it’s a small world” and the Rivers of America into an artist’s canvas with lighting effects, customized projections and more. This nighttime spectacular by Disney Live Entertainment will take you on an epic adventure through 100 years of Walt Disney Animation Studios storytelling. On select nights, “Wondrous Journeys” takes to the skies with sparkling fireworks. Check out this behind-the-scenes look at the recording session for the show’s original song, “It’s Wondrous.”
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During both “World of Color – ONE” and “Wondrous Journeys,” your MagicBand+ will come to life with dancing lights and vibrations synchronized to the shows.
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Platinum Decor and Elegant Food Offerings

We ALL love new themed merch that marks our latest visit to the Happiest Place On Earth and this year they are bringing out some really special memorabilia.

Both theme parks, the Downtown Disney District and the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort will be adorned in beautiful, platinum-infused décor. 

Around the resort, guests will find platinum statues and medallions – which make great photo opportunities! At Disneyland Park, Sleeping Beauty Castle will be accented by two new water fountains and dressed in platinum banners and bunting, a magnificent cabochon and a shining wishing star. On Main Street, U.S.A., Guests may find Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and their pals in platinum-inspired looks designed to reflect the optimism and creativity that are at the heart of everything Disney.

Feeling hungry amidst all these festivities? Savor a century of magic through specialty food and beverages like the platinum trifle and potato and cheddar cheeseburger. Plus, Guests can collect novelties such as the Disney100 Mickey Mouse sipper and platinum Mickey Mouse balloon bucket. 


Guests can also bring the magic home with commemorative Disney100 merchandise and collectibles released throughout the year, such as the Disney100 Platinum Celebration Collection, special MagicBand+ designs, collectible medallions and pressed pennies.
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Magic Happens Parade and Gallery Offerings

Returning February 24th, 2023 even more fun is still to come! The “Magic Happens” parade makes its highly anticipated return to Disneyland Park. Led by Mickey Mouse and his pals, the daytime spectacular celebrates moments of magic from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios films with grand floats, artistic costumes and an energetic musical score.

We’re excited to announce that The Disney Gallery on Main Street, U.S.A., at Disneyland Park will house a new exhibit inspired by Walt Disney’s vision for Disneyland to be where his films come to life. Inside, you’ll see beautiful artwork created by original Disney animators for some of Walt’s early films, alongside artwork concepted by original Disney Imagineers to recreate those stories in the park.

The exhibit will also display an animator’s desk, a model of a multi-plane camera and more. It’s a magnificent tribute to Disney films that became Disneyland Resort attractions, park experiences that later inspired Disney films and the rich traditions they both share.

There’s so much to look forward to this year at Disneyland Resort! I can't wait to take our little family and continue to help so many families experience the magic.

What are you most looking forward to during Disney100?


Entertainment, experiences, and offerings may be modified, limited in availability or unavailable, and are subject to restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice. Both valid Theme Park reservation and admission for the same Park on the same day are required for Park entry. Park reservations are limited, subject to availability and not guaranteed. Park admission and offerings are not guaranteed. Visit https://disneytraveltradeinfo.com/dlr for important information to know before visiting the Disneyland Resort.
*Virtual queues are limited and subject to availability, and joining a virtual queue does not guarantee entrance to any experience. Guests may only enter the virtual queue for each experience once per day. Subject to other restrictions, and change or cancellation without notice.
**Message, data and roaming rates may apply for the use of the Disneyland app and Play Disney Parks app. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first.
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Summer 2022 at Legoland California

9/1/2022

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A couple of times of year we enjoy taking the kids on our "big vacations". Usually one in early spring and one over the summer. As a homeschooling family, we are blessed to be able to travel on dates where places will, hopefully, be less crowded. We aim for missing spring break and travel late in the summer when back to school has already happened. 

For our summer vacation this year, we enjoyed 5 days on Mission Beach and then decided to spend 3 more days up the coast in Carlsbad. We have been wanting to take Greyson, who was about to turn six, to Legoland California but wanted to go when we knew he could ride most of the rides and when he would appreciate the park. 

I have shared our favorite rides, eats and features below as well as the not-so-favorite-parts as they pertained to our particular family dynamic. We traveled in August with a 6 year old (he turned six the day we went! a super fun birthday day!) and our 1 1/2 year old daughter.  Read below and then comment your most and least favorite aspects of the park below too. 
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​THE FOOD

I'm sorry, but would this be Nosh & Nurture if I didn't mention the theme park food FIRST? I mean I know travel is BIG around here, but food, namely SAFE and HEALTHY food is where it's at for us, so let's get into it. 

WHAT WE LOVED
: Ok, I have to give Legoland MAJOR PROPS because I wasn't expecting much (Disney knocks it out of the park with allergy-friendly options so I knew I had high standards) but Legoland EXCEEDED my expectations. They not only had gluten-free and vegan options at almost EVERY eatery (and there are TWELVE!) but they had HEALTHY options at every one too. The restaurants were clean and beautiful and their market-style Urban Kitchen in Fun Town was a farm-to-table dream. 

The small snack kiosks and  markets were also a favorite. We sipped Suja juices when we got warm and enjoyed peanut- and inflammatory-oil free almonds and cashews and fruit cups. 

For lunch we dined at the Pizza and Pasta Buffet in Castle Hill. The chef prepared my gluten-free and dairy-free spaghetti bolognaise separate and I felt so safe. For dinner we could have snagged gluten free gourmet burgers in Mini Land, but instead went back to our hotel for cake to celebrate the birthday boy. 

WHAT COULD USE IMPROVEMENT: Honestly, I can't knock a darn thing. The special order pasta did take an additional 30 minutes to make, and the kids got quite antsy waiting for me to eat after they had eaten, but it was worth it to feel safe. I wouldn't say that was a CON, just something to keep in mind for timing with your party. 

THE RIDES

Again. Exceeded my expectations. I felt like there was so much to do, and with it still being summer the park was quite crowded. It was nicely spread out so it didn't FEEL busy, but the wait times were 10-25 minutes on the small rides and up to an hour for the bigger thrill rides. 

​WHAT WE LOVED: That there were so many options and various ride levels for big kids and adults. Grey and I LOVED riding the Coastersaurus. It's one of three thrill-roller coasters that aren't TOO scary for little ones but fun enough for the older set to enjoy. Grey's favorite ride was Driving School. Kids ages 6-12 can drive their own Lego-inspired car around a little city. It gives them freedom and fun all in one. Kids 3-5 can drive the Junior Driving School track version too! The boat rides were SO fun for the whole family, exploring Mini Land and Fairytale Brook, it was a nice relaxing and shaded ride we all enjoyed. 

WHAT COULD USE IMPROVEMENT: The rides are where we were let down the most for OUR particular family set up. There were only THREE rides in the whole park Lexi could ride. Being not yet 2, she was too short to ride even some of the tamer rides because of the way they have the seats set up. We made the most of the day and she loved just seeing all the Lego statues because they were her size, haha! We probably won't return until she is older/taller and they can experience rides together. We took turns riding the rides with Grey while she played. Also, the toddler train ride is the shortest, saddest ride in the park. Lexi was so excited to ride something and it was super hard to find, went in one circle and even she was disappointed. 

A MUST SEE: You HAVE to explore the Adventure's Club. Before we went I thought it sounded kind of boring, haha, but seeing it and exploring the different rooms, they did SUCH a good job and we all LOVED the walkthrough, immersive experience. 
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THE ACTIVITIES

The activities did make up for some of the lack of rides we were able to enjoy. 

​WHAT WE LOVED: Grey LOVED being able to build Lego at every turn. From building our own Ferrari's we could race to building a rocket ship he could "send to space", the park isn't short on hands-on-activities for kids. And since little ones can't ride many rides they do have an epic toddler play town and splash pad area. 

WHAT COULD USE IMPROVEMENT: I think activity wise, it was pretty well thought out and well executed. 

STAFF AND PARK CLEANLINESS

As someone who visits Disney parks on the regular, I am used to seeing A LOT of staff and a very clean park, so again, high standards when I visit other parks. 


​WHAT WE LOVED: The park was very well-kept and clean. I felt safe letting my kids walk around and play, and the staff we did encounter were very nice. 

WHAT COULD USE IMPROVEMENT: There didn't seem to be much staff around aside from those operating rides and eateries. I got lost once and wanted to ask someone for direction and I was on my own for quite a while. 
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We so enjoyed our one-day in Legoland. I would suggest making it a two-day adventure if you have older kids or would like to get in all of the rides.

One day was perfect for us with our kids at the ages that they are. We even had time to shop (for way to many Lego sets) before leaving the park. 

A very fun, well-rounded, tiring day at a new, fun theme park we plan to visit again.

Have you been? What did you think? I'd love for you to share your park tips and favorites with our readers below! 
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Visiting Williams, AZ - A Trip For Nature, Nostalgia and Nurturing Connection

5/16/2022

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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. 

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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! 
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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. 
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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!


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Springtime Menu at First Watch

4/25/2022

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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. 
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​What's been added?


Available through May 29th, 2022 the Spring Menu is a drool-worthy selection of decadent brunch favorites. Additions include:
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  • Chorizo Sunrise Sandwich
  • Crab Cake Benedict
  • Million Dollar Bacon
  • Shrimp and Grits
  • Pineapple Express 
  • and more! 
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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!"
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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! 
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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. 
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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! 
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Gluten Free Guide to Disney California Adventures Food and Wine Festival 2022

3/6/2022

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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! 
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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 
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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! 

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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! 
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Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller- Our Top Baby Travel Must Have

7/22/2021

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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!
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All The Reasons I Love Our Ergobaby Metro+ Stroller
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  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!
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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! 
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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.
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California and Florida Theme Park Reopening Dates

6/18/2020

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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. 


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

4/13/2020

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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. 
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​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. 
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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. 

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

2/20/2020

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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. 
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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! 
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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. 

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Disney Treats & Drinks Guide: Dairy Free In Disneyland

10/17/2019

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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. 


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

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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. 
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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. 
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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. 

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