Today, we are celebrating the 4th at the Ronald Regan Library for their free family event. We went there last year and the kids had a great time. If you don't get there early, you will have to park way down at the bottom of the hill. Of course, we did not get there early and parked at the bottom. Fortunately, they have a shuttle to take you up to the top. We got very lucky, because we just got out of the car ran to the shuttle a few cars down and off we went.
We get to the top and the 1st thing the girls see is a bounce house obstacle course. My 2 year old was a little small; so daddy had to do the obstacle with her. She had fun; but daddy got very tired after a couple times.
The girls did a couple crafts like making a flag with tissue paper and a USA beaded necklace. Their favorite activities were the games and then getting a small prize after each play. By the time they were done, I had quite a collection of patriotic pencils. We played a water balloon toss and then the girls played another game where you can collect as much candy as they could. Just what they need - more candy!
They also had free all you can eat watermelon. My youngest ate about 4 slices. She loves that stuff. My picky 5 year old had issues with a seedless watermelon because of the little white seeds. She insisted on picking those out which just took forever for her to eat.
We saved money on lunch by bringing our own and sat at their tables. We enjoyed listening to the band playing music while we ate. My youngest like it so much she started dancing and put on a show for the person next to us. She just added more entertainment and was quite comical.
This event really wears the kids out and they knocked out in the car on the way home. I knocked out at home. An hour later we had to be up and ready for a BBQ at my parents house. We stayed there for a little while, came home, bathed the kids and rushed off to see fireworks at the local mall. We always go to McDonalds for the $1 sundae to eat while we wait/watch for the fireworks. The line was out the door this year; so we decided to go after. Luckily,I bought some pop snaps for the kids to throw to keep them occupied while we waited. I also got them glow in the dark necklaces at the dollar store. I mad a note to try to sell these next year. People were asking where we got them and someone was actually selling the bracelets. After the show we made it to McDonalds. They barely let us in because they said they closed at 9:30. What kind of McDonalds closes at 9:30!? I think they just wanted to go home early. We did get our sundae but they eventually kicked us out to close their doors. All in all it was a fun 4th!
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Dead Fish and the Music Man
We decided to check out a Japanese Festival because we didn't have much else planned and it was free to get it. I enjoy learning about a different culture and expose the kids as well.
They had a game where you can win a fish and the girls just had to play. My oldest has been wanting a fish; so here was her chance to win one. The game was really inexpensive; so they each won a goldfish for $3 worth of game play. Then, they played a couple other games, we looked at some bonsai trees, ate some homemade sugar donuts - I forgot what the Japanese call them; but they were good! We weren't there long enough to see any entertainment because my husband and I were on our way to see an outdoor movie of the Music Man at an outdoor venue in Pasadena.
Neither of us had seen it and it was free so we gave it a try. They showed the newer version and it was not very good. It probably doesn't make much of a difference if it was the old or new version because I didn't think it was a very good movie either way. We left after an hour to pick up the girls.
By this time, the goldfish were in jars and looked like they were hungry because they were blooping (when the fish open and close its mouth) according to my 5 year old. So, at 10:45pm we go to Vons to find fish food so the fish won't bloop anymore. It was the only thing we were buying and the cashier says "Oh, you're fish are hungry?" Because who goes out at almost 11:00pm to try to feed their goldfish.
We fed the fish, and about 3:00 in the morning I got up to tend to my youngest who needed a drink and found the fish floating. I hoped he might be sleeping and I was too tired to really check. I knew he wasn't sleeping when my oldest was crying about the dead fish in the morning. The 2nd fish died a day later. Winning a fish seems great at the time for the kids; but then you got to find somewhere to put it, get fish food, and take care of it, all so it can die in a day and leave your kids upset and crying.
They had a game where you can win a fish and the girls just had to play. My oldest has been wanting a fish; so here was her chance to win one. The game was really inexpensive; so they each won a goldfish for $3 worth of game play. Then, they played a couple other games, we looked at some bonsai trees, ate some homemade sugar donuts - I forgot what the Japanese call them; but they were good! We weren't there long enough to see any entertainment because my husband and I were on our way to see an outdoor movie of the Music Man at an outdoor venue in Pasadena.
Neither of us had seen it and it was free so we gave it a try. They showed the newer version and it was not very good. It probably doesn't make much of a difference if it was the old or new version because I didn't think it was a very good movie either way. We left after an hour to pick up the girls.
By this time, the goldfish were in jars and looked like they were hungry because they were blooping (when the fish open and close its mouth) according to my 5 year old. So, at 10:45pm we go to Vons to find fish food so the fish won't bloop anymore. It was the only thing we were buying and the cashier says "Oh, you're fish are hungry?" Because who goes out at almost 11:00pm to try to feed their goldfish.
We fed the fish, and about 3:00 in the morning I got up to tend to my youngest who needed a drink and found the fish floating. I hoped he might be sleeping and I was too tired to really check. I knew he wasn't sleeping when my oldest was crying about the dead fish in the morning. The 2nd fish died a day later. Winning a fish seems great at the time for the kids; but then you got to find somewhere to put it, get fish food, and take care of it, all so it can die in a day and leave your kids upset and crying.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Library Events
Our local libraries have a number of family events for free which we love attending.
March
Animal Scales and Musical Tales
Celebrate Read Across America with us as Ken Frawley presents a song and story-filled program for all ages.
Tue, March 1, 2011
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Valencia Library
23743 W. Valencia Blvd.
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Phone: (661) 259-8942
(661) 259-8942
Volcanoes in Stories and Science
Richard Wade shows how volcanoes erupt and grow, tells myths and legends about them, and demonstrates the secret of eruptions! For children in Grades K-8.
Tue, March 22, 2011
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Valencia Library
23743 W. Valencia Blvd.
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Phone: (661) 259-8942
(661) 259-8942
FebruaryCurrent Events at Newhall Library
The Magic of Tony DanielsCapers, conjuring & comedy: Tony Daniels is coming back to Newhall! For kids of all ages.
Tue, February 22, 2011
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Current Events at Valencia Library
Fire and Ice with Mad ScienceJoin Mad Science as they present a fun show for all ages! See fascinating science demonstrations with air pressure, fire, bubbling potions, and more.
Wed, February 23, 2011
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
They have a summer reading program where if you or your child reads books, they can earn small prizes. It's a great way to encourage reading over the summer.
The last event we saw there was a bubble show. My 5 year old had a bubble show birthday party and she enjoyed this show all over again. My 2 year old had fun watching it for the most part; but she did get upset when the bubbles didn't get close enough for her to pop.
We also go to the story times. They read stories, do sing alongs and make a craft. My 5 year old loves it; but my 2 year old can only sit through a couple stories and likes craft time.
The next events we are hoping to catch is a balloon show and a couple magic shows.
March
Animal Scales and Musical Tales
Celebrate Read Across America with us as Ken Frawley presents a song and story-filled program for all ages.
Tue, March 1, 2011
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Valencia Library
23743 W. Valencia Blvd.
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Phone: (661) 259-8942
(661) 259-8942
Volcanoes in Stories and Science
Richard Wade shows how volcanoes erupt and grow, tells myths and legends about them, and demonstrates the secret of eruptions! For children in Grades K-8.
Tue, March 22, 2011
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Valencia Library
23743 W. Valencia Blvd.
Santa Clarita, CA 91355
Phone: (661) 259-8942
(661) 259-8942
FebruaryCurrent Events at Newhall Library
The Magic of Tony DanielsCapers, conjuring & comedy: Tony Daniels is coming back to Newhall! For kids of all ages.
Tue, February 22, 2011
3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Current Events at Valencia Library
Fire and Ice with Mad ScienceJoin Mad Science as they present a fun show for all ages! See fascinating science demonstrations with air pressure, fire, bubbling potions, and more.
Wed, February 23, 2011
7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
They have a summer reading program where if you or your child reads books, they can earn small prizes. It's a great way to encourage reading over the summer.
The last event we saw there was a bubble show. My 5 year old had a bubble show birthday party and she enjoyed this show all over again. My 2 year old had fun watching it for the most part; but she did get upset when the bubbles didn't get close enough for her to pop.
We also go to the story times. They read stories, do sing alongs and make a craft. My 5 year old loves it; but my 2 year old can only sit through a couple stories and likes craft time.
The next events we are hoping to catch is a balloon show and a couple magic shows.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Stranded, Sun Burnt and Starving in Lake Arrowhead
To celebrate my birthday, we went to Lake Arrowhead. My parents have a place up there, so we saved some money by not having to pay to stay somewhere else. We also tried to save some money by packing our own lunch for a picnic at Lake Gregory. All I wanted was some chicken salad to make a chicken salad sandwich. They usually have it at the store I go to; but of course, not today. I ended up going to 3 different stores before I finally got it. We got to the lake and ate our lunch.
Then, we rented a peddle boat for an hour. Half of our time had past and decided to head back. The wind had picked up and the their were some white caps on the water. We were peddling and peddling but we were not moving anywhere. This went on for about 30 min. The kids were getting antsy and wanted to get off. We were just stuck in the lake until who knows how long. Finally, a rescue boat came and asked if we needed help. We gladly took it and they towed us to the calmer parts of the water. I was so tired, I barely made it back the little way to the dock.
Afterwards we went to the house in Arrowhead and took a nap. I discovered I was quite sun burnt and it hurt to move my legs. I had picked a place to eat dinner; but forgot it closed at 7:00pm. We had left at 6:30 hoping to make it within 5 min. But no, our GPS sent us to some house and we never did find the place. So, we decided to see what there is to eat in the village. Everything was closed by 5:30. The only option we had for my birthday dinner was McDonalds or a Mexican restaurant. We chose the restaurant. The food was not the greatest but at least we found food! The day was an adventure as usual; but I had a fun time.
Then, we rented a peddle boat for an hour. Half of our time had past and decided to head back. The wind had picked up and the their were some white caps on the water. We were peddling and peddling but we were not moving anywhere. This went on for about 30 min. The kids were getting antsy and wanted to get off. We were just stuck in the lake until who knows how long. Finally, a rescue boat came and asked if we needed help. We gladly took it and they towed us to the calmer parts of the water. I was so tired, I barely made it back the little way to the dock.
Afterwards we went to the house in Arrowhead and took a nap. I discovered I was quite sun burnt and it hurt to move my legs. I had picked a place to eat dinner; but forgot it closed at 7:00pm. We had left at 6:30 hoping to make it within 5 min. But no, our GPS sent us to some house and we never did find the place. So, we decided to see what there is to eat in the village. Everything was closed by 5:30. The only option we had for my birthday dinner was McDonalds or a Mexican restaurant. We chose the restaurant. The food was not the greatest but at least we found food! The day was an adventure as usual; but I had a fun time.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Brentwood Summer Festival
I had noticed that Brentwood was doing a FREE family summer festival; so we decided to check it out. Shops had tables displayed with merchandise, vendor booths were scattered around; but the best part was the free food!
There was an Indian restaraunt (sorry didn't get the name) giving out free food to try. What could be better than a free lunch? Well, let me tell you... there was free cotton candy, which my girls loved! My youngest didn't get the concept of how to eat it though. She treated it like an icecream and licked it to death. After a while of licking, the wet cotton candy looked like it was ready to be tossed. After the cotton candy, my oldest wanted more delicious food. We stumbled onto a popcorn cart which was giving out free bags of popcorn. That kettle corn was the best! It tasted salty, sweet, sugary and buttery as my daughter described it.
They had a petting zoo where my youngest really enjoyed feeding the animals hay. My oldest was way too concerned about getting dirty and worried the animals would poop on her. We walked by to see a magic show, watch a dog on wheels (something was wrong with his back legs, and listen to a band play. They even had free pony rides! My oldest rode on one; but the youngest was too scared to get on. It was a fun day for all. Thanks Brentwood!
There was an Indian restaraunt (sorry didn't get the name) giving out free food to try. What could be better than a free lunch? Well, let me tell you... there was free cotton candy, which my girls loved! My youngest didn't get the concept of how to eat it though. She treated it like an icecream and licked it to death. After a while of licking, the wet cotton candy looked like it was ready to be tossed. After the cotton candy, my oldest wanted more delicious food. We stumbled onto a popcorn cart which was giving out free bags of popcorn. That kettle corn was the best! It tasted salty, sweet, sugary and buttery as my daughter described it.
They had a petting zoo where my youngest really enjoyed feeding the animals hay. My oldest was way too concerned about getting dirty and worried the animals would poop on her. We walked by to see a magic show, watch a dog on wheels (something was wrong with his back legs, and listen to a band play. They even had free pony rides! My oldest rode on one; but the youngest was too scared to get on. It was a fun day for all. Thanks Brentwood!
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Regal Family Film Festival
I am planning to take the kids or atleast the older one to Regal Cinemas for their Free Film Festival. They show a choice of 2 movies every Tues. and Wed. starting June 15th. They show older movies; but it's great to sit in a cool theatre when the sun is blazing outside. They often get crowded, so get there a little early to get a seat. It's something to do in the summer for free with your kids, so why not take advantage.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Free Birthday Meals
Who wouldn't want FREE meals on their birthday! Here's some links to help get breakfast, lunch and dinner for FREE on your special day. Some items are FREE for just signing up!
El Torito - http://news.eltorito.com/clients/eltorito/survey.htm receive coupon for Free guacamole and Free entree on your birthday.
Acapulco - http://news.acapulcorestaurants.com/clients/acapulco/survey.htm -receive coupon for Free guacamole and Free entree on your birthday.
Black Angus - http://www.blackangus.com/PrimeClub.htm - Free dessert and steak dinner
Coldstone Creamery - http://www.coldstonecreamery.com/birthday/birthday_club.aspx - Free Creation
Del Taco - http://www.deltaco.com/page8.html - 2 Free tacos and premium milkshake
Hometown Buffet - http://www.umi-inc.com/buffetsinc/index.html - Free Meal
Krsipy Kreme - http://krispykremenewsletters.interx2.net/FriendsOfKrispyKreme.aspx - Free half dozen glazed donuts and coffee mug filled with coffee or soda.
Marie Calendars - http://echo4.bluehornet.com/clients/marie_callenders/survey.htm - Free offers on birthday and anniversary
Red Robin - http://www.redrobin.com/eclub/default.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1 -Free burger
Round Table Pizza - http://www.roundtablepizza.com/RTP/Coupon/finder.asp - Free personal pizza
Ruby Tuesday - http://pages.rubytuesdayrestaurants.com/page.aspx?QS=773ed3059447707deabda7bb9014e2bc76683fcf2ec10edcbf62b7dc638cf860 - Free Burger
TGI Fridays - http://www.fridays.com/home/welcome.aspx - Free appetizer and dessert
El Torito - http://news.eltorito.com/clients/eltorito/survey.htm receive coupon for Free guacamole and Free entree on your birthday.
Acapulco - http://news.acapulcorestaurants.com/clients/acapulco/survey.htm -receive coupon for Free guacamole and Free entree on your birthday.
Black Angus - http://www.blackangus.com/PrimeClub.htm - Free dessert and steak dinner
Coldstone Creamery - http://www.coldstonecreamery.com/birthday/birthday_club.aspx - Free Creation
Del Taco - http://www.deltaco.com/page8.html - 2 Free tacos and premium milkshake
Hometown Buffet - http://www.umi-inc.com/buffetsinc/index.html - Free Meal
Krsipy Kreme - http://krispykremenewsletters.interx2.net/FriendsOfKrispyKreme.aspx - Free half dozen glazed donuts and coffee mug filled with coffee or soda.
Marie Calendars - http://echo4.bluehornet.com/clients/marie_callenders/survey.htm - Free offers on birthday and anniversary
Red Robin - http://www.redrobin.com/eclub/default.aspx?AspxAutoDetectCookieSupport=1 -Free burger
Round Table Pizza - http://www.roundtablepizza.com/RTP/Coupon/finder.asp - Free personal pizza
Ruby Tuesday - http://pages.rubytuesdayrestaurants.com/page.aspx?QS=773ed3059447707deabda7bb9014e2bc76683fcf2ec10edcbf62b7dc638cf860 - Free Burger
TGI Fridays - http://www.fridays.com/home/welcome.aspx - Free appetizer and dessert
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