10 Ways to Save Money on Summer Travel

10 Ways to Save Money on Summer Travel by Tonya P Many families look forward to the last day of school so they can put their summer travel plans in motion. After all, what can be better than spending time away with the family? I can think of one. How about returning home from vacation with money in your pocket? Here are some of my best tips to help you save money on summer travel with your family. 1. Book your hotel in advance, but continue to look around. If you’re booking directly from the hotel, you either save the most by booking far in advance or by waiting until the last minute. It sounds like a gamble, but it doesn’t need to be. Go ahead and book in advance, most hotels will not charge you until you check-in (confirm this with the hotel). You can continue to check … [Read more...]

New Ride at Disney World – The Mine Train Review: What You Need to Know

If you are a fan of Disney, you likely know that the centerpiece of the New Fantasyland at Walt Disney World in Orlando is the Seven Dwarves Mine Train Rollercoaster.  The Disney Imagineers (and construction crews) have been working on this project since 2010 and they are just about ready to (ahem) roll it out! I had a very special opportunity to be part of a media party recently which gave us a chance to ride the Mine Train roller coaster before it opens to the public. (Opening day is currently schedule for May 28, 2014.) [sc:adsense ] Here are some things you'll want to know about this ride before you go. 1. There is an interactive element to the line waiting part (this is going to be a very popular ride and you will be waiting in line). Spinning barrels, touch screen games, … [Read more...]

Spring Photography – Fashion Inspiration

Spring is here! If it hasn't quite arrived where you live don't worry, soon enough it will be knocking at your doorstep. As we all come out of winter hiding and prepare for beautiful spring and summer weather, it's time to start thinking about spring photography. Maybe you welcomed a new member to your family over the winter, maybe you celebrated an important birthday. Whatever the reason, the spring and summer months are an excellent time to have family photos taken. The weather is beautiful, the flowers and trees are in bloom and you can skip the mad rush of family photos in the fall! If you are planning a family photo session this spring and are stuck on what to wear, read on for five helpful tips! 1. Radiant Orchid - Pantone Spring 2014 Color Palette If you need some … [Read more...]

Easter Wreath, Speckled Eggs and A Hula Hoop!

I love decorating for the Holidays, Easter is a favorite in our home!. It means Spring is here and the flowers are in full bloom, pastel colors are decorated throughout  our home, and bright colored accessories placed around to welcome Spring. Every year for Easter, I make a wreath, a DIY craft that is easy to do. Re-using leftover craft supplies, such as Easter eggs, leftover moss from recent projects along with paint for adding speckles to your eggs, keeps this project way under budget. Re-Using Easter Decorations Plastic Easter Eggs Glue Sticks Glue Gun Dark Glaze 1 Plastic Fork 4 bags Moss Hula Hoop (was the only purchase, for $1.00) Craft Wire Cream Color Spray Paint [sc:adsense ]   How To: Step 1: Lay your hula hoop down on a flat surface (be … [Read more...]

The Colors of Spring {Manicures}!

It’s finally time to pack away what’s left of your cold weather clothes and boots and embrace the season of new beginnings and new, colorful fashion and beauty trends. Regardless of how I fill my closet, the one thing that truly makes me smile is a fresh new manicure. Out with the dark colors of winter and IN with the bright, bold and beautiful! I’ve been keeping an eye on the most talked about nail trends for the 2014 season and decided to put the owner of my nail salon to the test. From bright whites to metallic stripes to polka dots, the look is clean, crisp and at the same time totally classic. For a girl who usually stays neutral for most of the year, I find that I can’t keep away from the bright, candy colors that line the shelves of her salon now. Robin’s egg blue, bright … [Read more...]

Winter Happy Hour with Bolthouse Farms Juices

Getting together with friends and family is a great way to spend winter evenings.  If the weather won’t allow you to get out, invite them in for fun and community.  How about hosting a Happy Hour? Light snacks and drinks mean you won’t be stuck in the kitchen. Start with Bolthouse Farms Juices and try some of these ideas and recipes! ABubblyLife made colorful ice cubes. So simple, but a real “Wow” factor. A Fabulous Fete used a chalkboard sign to give guests the formula to make what appealed to them most. [sc:adsense ] Beautiful “Bunco Berry Margaritas” by A to Zebra Celebrations What’s Cooking Love’s Mango Bellini Mocktails are a bright pop of color.  Bolthouse also has Vanilla Chai Tea.  The Grant Life  created a perfect end to the day with a “Silent Night Cap”. Are … [Read more...]