Take the PTA's Family Reading Challenge and bring your family closer together

There's a saying that goes: The family that plays together, stays together.  It may not rhyme as well, but I think it's just as accurate to say: The family that reads together, stays together.

From the time our kids were infants, Alfie and I read to them. Even when they would rather chew on a book than read it, we patiently read to them every single night. Those bedtime stories not only helped them learn to read, it instilled in them a love of books that I'm hoping will last a lifetime!

Our bedtime story tradition continued long after they learned to read on their own.  My kids still have fond memories of giggling to Alfie's crazy impersonations of Dora the Explorer!  The kids are in middle and high school now, but even though we no longer gather in bed to read a book, that tradition has brought us closer in unexpected ways. We now have an updated version of the tradition-- every morning at 7:00AM, the kids all come into our bed and we watch 15 minutes of the morning news together. At this point, we can barely fit on our bed (the latecomer always ends up at the foot of the bed!), but we love this time together because it's a way to say good morning to each other, to snuggle together, and to learn about what's happening in the world. My kids are well versed on current events, and we use the news as opening for discussing topics like smoking, drugs, bullying, race relations, and other things that directly impact their lives.

Another way we continue our tradition of reading together is reading the same books, then talking about the books together. I love having discussions with the kids about young adult fiction such as Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, and the Hunger Games!   Do you love to read with your family?  Keep it up -- as it did with my family, reading together will pay off in unexpected ways!

To inspire and encourage families to keep learning alive by reading great books together. National PTA and Amazon Kindle are kicking off a PTA Family Reading Challenge this summer. National PTA will empower families with tips and activities that encourage ongoing reading, while challenging them to share photos, videos and memories that demonstrate how and why reading together is a fun and treasured family activity. Go to ptareadingchallenge.org for more details and to sign up!

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Everything You Need To Know About the Disneyland Diamond Celebration

May is always a special month for me, because Mother's Day and my birthday are in May. This year I've got an extra reason to celebrate, because I'm going to the Disneyland Resort to celebrate Disneyland's 60th anniversary on my birthday! The Diamond Anniversary celebrations will kick off with a 24 hour party starting 6:00am on Friday May 22!  The fun continues nonstop till 6:00am on Saturday May 23.

There are so many special things going on during those 24 hours, the time will just fly by! Guests will enjoy, and you may have read about some of them.... but the Disney folks have been releasing them in dribs and drabs over the past few months.  So I've compiled all of the fun and magic (and links!) into one single post. Here is the full list of all the magical opportunities for families to enjoy the Diamond Celebration.

First off, here is everything guests will enjoy at the 24-Hour event on May 22:

Debut of Paint the Night parade

Disneyland Park will light up the night with a new nighttime parade called Paint the Night. With over 1.5 million LED lights flashing and glowing, it's like the old Electrical Parade meets 21st century technology! Even the dancers and props will light up. All-new parade stars include a 54-feet long Mack Truck from Cars, plus Anna and Elsa!

Debut of new World of Color show

World of Color show has a new theme: Celebrate! The Wonderful World of Walt Disney. Neil Patrick Harris will join Mickey Mouse in reliving Walt Disney's story, featuring music, fountains, lasers, plus animation and live action film projected onto a watery canvas.

Debut of new Fireworks spectacular

Disneyland's new fireworks show, Disneyland Forever, is going to be like no other fireworks show. Projection mapping technology will immerse viewers in dozens of Disney movie worlds, from The Lion King to Finding Nemo to Mary Poppins. The show will be viewable not only from Main Street USA, but also from It's a Small World, the Matterhorn, and the Rivers of America, with a different view from each location.

24-Hour Event Food

Guests can enjoy special treats only available during the 24-hour event, such as a Mocha Chip Funnel Cake at the Stage Door Cafe, Creamy Corn Chowder at French Market Restaurant, and Bananas Foster French Toast at Cafe Orleans. I'm definitely going for the Barbecued Pulled Pork & Slaw Cone at the Cozy Cone Motel!

24-Hour Event Merchandise

If you're going to the 24-Hour event on May 22, make sure you stop by a souvenir shop and check out the special 24-Hour tshirts and pins, because they'll only be on sale during the 24-Hour event!  In fact, they might even sell out before the 24 hours are over!

Don't worry, if you can't make the 24-Hour event, you haven't missed the party. The celebrations for Disneyland's Diamond Anniversary will continue throughout the summer and beyond.  Guests will have many opportunities to enjoy the new nighttime entertainment -- Paint the Night, Disneyland Forever and Celebrate! The Wonderful World of Walt Disney -- as well as the special offerings below:

New interactive entertainment

Throughout the Diamond Celebration year, performers will invite park guests to become part of the show at several places throughout the parks. Guests can march along with the Disneyland Band at a daily Diamond March-Along up Main Street USA, sing along with the Dapper Dans quartet, dream along with the Red Car News Boys on Buena Vista Street, dance along with Five & Dime, and party in Wonderland at the all-new Mad T Party.

Diamond Celebration Treats

It wouldn't be a celebration without treats! Guests will be able to indulge in special Diamond Celebration Cupcakes, special drinks, Rice Treats, Caramel Corn, and Cotton Candy. I'm definitely saving space in my belly for a cupcake -- and I'm washing it down with the special mango, pineapple and passion fruit Lucky Fortune Tea! And don't forget the special popcorn buckets!

Diamond Celebration Merchandise

More than 500 merchandise items will be available to purchase during the Diamond Anniversary Celebration. Think blinged-out ears, hats, shirts, jackets, Vinylmation, pins, bags, mugs.... I can't wait to go shopping! Disneyland only turns 60 once, so every single item in the Diamond Anniversary merchandise is sure to become a collector's item!

Diamond Celebration Decor

Have your photos taken in front of Sleeping Beauty's Castle and the Carthay Circle Theater, because they've been blinged up for the Diamond Celebration! And don't forget to check out the newly decorated store windows on Main Street USA, which have been specially done for the occasion.

Updated and refurbished attractions

Many of the attractions that you've been waiting for have returned, and they've been bedazzled! The Matterhorn Bobsleds, Peter Pan's Flight, and Soarin Over California have been given new special effects. There's a new ghost in town over at the Haunter Mansion -- watch out for the Hatbox Ghost at the opening of the cemetery scene! Finally, the remodeled and expanded Grizzly Peak is reopening to the public.

Diamond Days Sweepstakes

The Diamond Days Sweepstakes begins on May 22, and guests to the Disneyland Resort can win daily prizes such as VIP tours and dining experiences.  There are even more spectacular weekly prizes to be won, including real Disney Diamonds, a Cinderella glass slipper, a private party in Fantasyland, and a stay in the Disneyland Dream Suite.

photo credits: Disneyland News

Disclosure: I am attending the Diamond Celebration press event at the invitation of the Disneyland Resort. The views and opinions expressed here are my own.
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Springtime Roundup at Disneyland's Big Thunder Ranch

There's always something blooming at the Disneyland Resort!  They are celebrating springtime and Easter in a big way down at Big Thunder Ranch with the Springtime Roundup event, running from March 20 till April 12.  I was at the Disneyland Resort on March 20, and I stopped by Big Thunder Ranch to take a peek and share in all the hoppyness and excitement. Here's a rundown of all the best things to enjoy at this year's Springtime Roundup:

The main area still retains its down-home country feel, but there's a springtime feel, with touches of pastel in the flowers and the decor.

Guests can take part in special Easter themed crafts like decorating your own Easter eggs.

There are crayons and coloring crafts strewn around the tables for kids to enjoy.

There's a hoedown with musicians and dancers (love the pastel-checkered outfits!) teaching kids the bunny hop and other country dances.

Character meet-and-greets at the Springtime Roundup include Rabbit from Winnie-the-Pooh, Roger Rabbit, the Easter Bunny, Thumper (see the bunny theme?), Pluto (with bunny ears!), Jessie from Toy Story, and of course Minnie and Mickey in their springtime cowboy outfits.  Even though it was the very first day, the lines to meet the characters did not seem to long, probably because Big Thunder Ranch is out of the way.

Of course, it wouldn't be Big Thunder Ranch without the petting zoo and donkey pens!  The Springtime Roundup ends April 12, so grab yer pardners and mosey on down to Big Thunder Ranch and join in the fun.

Disclosure: I did not receive a sample or monetary compensation for this post. The views and opinions expressed here are my own.
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Making fitness fun for kids: an interview with Mia Hamm (and a LeapBand giveaway for you!)

My kids have led active lives all their lives.  The Pea started ballet at age 3, and 10 years later, she's on a competitive dance team, taking multiple dance classes 4 days out of 7.  3Po and Jammy are crazy about soccer; they practice 3 days a week and spend their weekends playing league games and tournaments. They walk and bike to school. We walk downtown on the weekends and take them sailing or hiking now and then.

It's so tempting to feel superior and wonder why other kids don't get as much activity -- but different families lead different lifestyles, and getting physical activity can be difficult.  I should know: my childhood was nothing like my kids'.  I led a very sedentary lifestyle as a child.  I was driven everywhere, and although my parents put me in ballet and gymnastics classes, I never really liked them, so I never put in more than a bare minimum effort.  It wasn't until my early teens that I fell in love with volleyball and jazz dance, and in my early twenties that I started running.  So I know how challenging it can be to get into the habit of being active.

To help encourage parents to get up and get active, Leapfrog teamed up with soccer star Mia Hamm this weekend at the first National Fit Made Fun Day in Santa Monica, where families gathered to help set 3 Guiness World Records: most kids making snow angels, most people hopping on one foot, and most people doing a swim dance.  Leapfrog also launched their new kids' activity tracker, the LeapBand™, a new  which records kids' movements and combines screen time with physical games and activities. I had the privilege of interviewing Mia by phone a few days ago, where she told us all about Fit Made Fun Day:

Mia had lots of great suggestions for instilling active habits in kids from a young age.  Here are some of her pearls of wisdom:

• Keep it simple, not too many rules because kids will tune out
• Make it part of a daily routine (bedtime dance party to get the wiggles out)
• Invite friends and family to be a part of it
• Make physical activities a part of family gathering and events (football, wiffle ball game)
• Celebrate physical achievements - go to different parks, go ice skating
• Show kids that you appreciate having fun together

For school aged kids, Mia stressed the importance of letting kids follow the sport that they love, letting them enjoy the social aspect of sports, letting them pursue multiple sports (if they want) so they don't burn out, and being a parent ("a soft place to land"), not a coach. As for kids who don't like sports, even they can still get active!  Mia stressed that getting up and getting active doesn't have to be complicated.  Games and relay races keep kids active, but to them, it's not really a physical activity, it's just fun.  That's where the LeapBand comes in: it's a great way to make fitness fun by turning it into a game.

Win a LeapBand Activity Tracker

Leapfrog is giving away a LeapBand to TWO lucky Bonggamom Finds readers!

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See @bonggafinds interview Mia Hamm & enter to win a LeapBand activity tracker fr @Leapfrog! Enter by 8/24 http://ow.ly/BmAhn

7) Join any open giveaway on Bonggamom Finds (1 entry for every giveaway you join) The Rules This giveaway ends at 11:59PM PST on August 24,  2014; I will draw 2 winners at random, on August 25 and post their name after they confirm acceptance. Continental US residents only. For additional giveaway rules, click here.

  Disclosure: Leapfrog provided the interview opportunity, a LeapBand sample for review, and two LeapBands to give away. The views and opinions expressed here are my own. Tweet this!

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Celebrate National Fit Made Fun Day with LeapFrog

Do you want to meet soccer star Mia Hamm?  Do you want to help break some Guinness World Records?  Do you want to try out LeapFrog's latest hi-tech toy designed to keep kids active?  Do you want to get your family out this weekend for some fitness and fun?  Do you live near Santa Monica, CA?

If you answered yes to all those questions, I've got a fantastic opportunity for you!  LeapFrog, my favorite hi-tech learning brand, is launching the  LeapBand™, a new wearable activity tracker that keeps kids active by combining physical activity with games and challenges.  To celebrate, they are holding a Fit Made Fun Day on September 6, 2014, 1:00pm-4:00pm at Santa Monica beach!  This 3-hour event is packed with fun things for the whole family to do.  Here's what to expect:

• Attendees will attempt to set 3 new Guinness World Records, for "Most children making sand angels on the beach", "Most people hopping on one foot", and "Most people doing a swim dance".  You could be part of a world record!

• Soccer star Mia Hamm will be leading the attempt.

• A DJ will spin KidzBop tunes as kids and parents get active and enjoy healthy snacks.

• Participants will receive a LeapBand activity tracker and goody bag packed with fun extras to take home!

All local families with children ages 5 through 8 are invited to attend -- but space is limited, so you must register to secure your spot.  Hurry, the fun starts in THREE DAYS, so register ASAP!

Disclosure: I did not receive a product sample or compensation for my post. The views and opinions expressed here are my own.
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Nuclear Cowboyz enthralls audiences in San Jose

Spring break has arrived, and boy did we start it with a bang!  We saw Feld Entertainment's amazing freestyle motorcross stunt show, Nuclear Cowboyz, over the weekend.  The Pea gave her ticket up to spend the day with a friend, so 3Po and Jammy invited a friend, and all 3 boys loved the whole show.  Actually, I should say all 4 boys, because Alfie enjoyed it as much as the boys did! It's chock-full of high-flying stunts and tricks that left us gasping and yelping in disbelief.  We were literally on the edge of our seats!

The excitement and energy levels were high even before the show started.  Vendors were selling cotton candy with a special Nuclear Cowboyz beanie, mohawk headbands, and some really cool Nuclear Cowboyz shirts.  There was a section roped off for autograph signing after the show.  When we peeped into the show area, we were amazed by the height of the ramps and runways!  Most were taller than a one-story house, and they must have been spaced at least 50 feet apart.  Some were connected by narrow catwalks or smaller ramps.  The whole setup looked unbelievably scary.

Once the show started, we realized that what these motorcycle riders were doing was even scarier than we had thought!  They zoom up, launch themselves off the ramps, do some kind of crazy trick while flying through the air -- somersaults, handstands, twists, turns, lying down, and my favorite, completely letting go of the bike in mid-air and spreading their arms like they could fly forever -- and landing safely on the other end. Other times, they were pulling wheelies (riding on the back wheel), stoppies (riding on the front wheel), and jumping up and down levels like they were just pedal bikes instead of motorcycles.  I tried to take photos, but I ended up with blurry images because the lights were so low and they were moving so quickly:

The best way to appreciate their tricks is to watch a video of them in action. Don't worry, this video isn't very long, just 4 seconds... but it's 4 seconds of awesomeness:


One of the best tricks of the night was so spectacular, I didn't even have time to take a photo of it.  One of stuntmen was riding around with his back on fire.  Yes, the dude was On. Fire.  Both literally and figuratively. It was the only time during the whole show that anyone had performed a trick like that, as opposed to all the other tricks, which were repeated quite a few times over the course of the show.  That made the Flaming Dude  even more of a moment to treasure.

Two things that made the show more than just a motorcycle stunt show:

1)  In between motorcycle stunts, the Shaolin Kung Fu warriors kept everyone enthralled by their kung fu performances; my favorite parts were when one of the warriors broke a pole over another warrior's head, and when another warrior balanced himself on the tip of a spear (he ended up horizontal, with the only the tip of the spear touching his stomach.  How he escaped impalement is beyong me.

Here's a brief (and blurry, sorry about that!) clip of the Shaolin Kung Fu Warriors in action:


2)  The special effects were pretty amazing, and they entertained me throughout the show!  There were laser beams going forming all kinds of intricate patterns, from lightning to death rays to teleportation rays and more.

There were columns of flame shooting up so high that we could feel the heat all the way from our seats.

There were also fireworks going off every now and then, to punctuate a particularly cool stunt.

A word of warning: the noise level was loud at its quietest moments and deafening at its loudest, and you never knew when the fireworks were going to explode, so I found myself jumping in my seat more than once.  If you're planning to attend the show with young kids, make sure you bring ear plugs!  If you forget your ear plugs, you can roll up a wad of tissue paper and stuff it in your child's ear.

Oh, yeah: there's actually a story that ties the whole show together (spoiler alert!).  The Nuclear Cowboyz, the good guys (a group of motorcycle riders and kung fu warriors) have been captured by an evil queen and forced to compete against her army -- the Shadow Army, also consisting of motorcycle riders and kung fu warriors -- in the ultimate showdown of good versus evil.  The Nuclear Cowboyz win, of course, and in her anger and humiliation, the evil queen prepares to kill her Shadow Army commander.  But the Nuclear Cowboyz commander saves the Shadow Army commander, and in gratitude, the Shadow Army joins forces with the Nuclear Cowboyz to destroy the evil queen once and for all.  

Yes, I did warn you that this was a spoiler alert, but the story doesn't really make a huge impact on the show; you don't need to know the story in order to enjoy the show.  In fact, I'll bet that almost all the little kids and probably half of the adults weren't really aware that there was a show.  The roar of the bikes and the rock music and the fireworks were so loud, the narrator's voice over was kind of lost in the cacophony!


Disclosure: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre‐Show events. Show information and trivia (in italics) were provided by Feld Entertainment. The views and opinions expressed here are my own. The views and opinions expressed here are my own.
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Behind the scenes at Nuclear Cowboyz

An exciting new show is zooming over to the Bay Area in less than 2 weeks, and we can't wait!  Nuclear Cowboyz,  freestyle motocross stunt show, will be playing at San Jose's SAP Center on March 29 and 30.  Alfie rides a motorcycle every day to and from work (as well as on weekends), and he loves watching World Superbike and MotoGP races on tv, so the boys have grown up with motorcycles.  They love watching videos of motorcycles jumping off ramps, so I know they will love this show.  The Pea and I aren't too interested in motorcycles, but I learned my lesson about keeping an open mind after watching and enjoying last month's Monster Jam, and I'm really looking forward to this show.  I may not be into motorcycles, but I admire anyone who can do acrobatics and think stunt riders are awesome, so how could I not enjoy a show with people who have perfected both?  I expect to be impressed, and judging from the behind-the-scenes video below, I don't think I'll be disappointed!


You can imagine that such a huge production requires a lot of work and preparation!  Here are a few fun facts about what it takes to put on a show like Nuclear Cowboyz:

- 30,000 plus hours are spent constructing the scenic environment for the tour. The Nuclear Cowboyz key performance configuration consists of 10 ramps; seven take off ramps, three landing ramps and multiple platforms for the trials riders and acrobatics.

- 11 semi-trucks are needed to haul in the show’s scenic environment, bikes and equipment. In most cases, crews begin the load-in process one day before the show and work for 14 hours to get prepared for the show. 

- Nearly 65 people are required to load in the entire show including: floor surface, lighting, sound, pyrotechnics, set embellishments and ramps.

- More than 20,000 feet of turf are used to cover the venue floor to accommodate the set. 

- Nuclear Cowboyz hosts the largest arena-based pyrotechnics shows in the world. There are more than 1000 custom pyrotechnic elements in the production,which are synchronized with music, laser and show lighting.

- Nuclear Cowboyz consists of 29 cast members including, FMX riders, quad riders, trials riders, Shaolin Martial Artists, dancers and acrobats.


About the show
The highly acclaimed 2014 Nuclear Cowboyz® freestyle motocross (FMX) tour is the most explosive choreographed arena-based production in the world featuring the saga of an allied tribe, the Nuclear Cowboyz, whose sole commitment is to defeat an indestructible evil tyrant and her army. Nuclear Cowboyz features a storyline conveyed through more than 1000 gravity-defying freestyle stunts performed by the globe’s most dominant freestyle athletes. The action-packed show is complete with mind-bending performances by world-famous Shaolin Kung Fu Warriors, stunning laser effects, the largest indoor pyrotechnics show and an infectious soundtrack comprised of heavy metal, electronic dubstep and alternative hip hop. 

Entering its fifth touring year, Nuclear Cowboyz 2014 is led by an award-winning creative team and features the world’s top freestyle motocross athletes, including multi-time X Games medalists Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg, Taka Higashino, Mike Mason, Matt Buyten, Ronnie Faisst and Colten Moore as well as freestyle heavyweights Derek Garland, Jimmy Fitzpatrick, Nick Dunne, Brody Wilson, James Carter, Marco Picado and more.

Save $5 on tickets to Nuclear Cowboyz
Use code MOM to save $5 on tickets to a Nuclear Cowboyz show.  Savings not valid on VIP Fallout Zone or Gold Circle seats. Savings not valid day of show.


Disclosure: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre‐Show events. Show information and trivia (in italics) were provided by Feld Entertainment. The views and opinions expressed here are my own.

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Nuclear Cowboyz is zooming over to the Bay Area

When we took the kids to see Monster Jam a few weeks ago, they saw an ad for another Feld Show, Nuclear Cowboyz.  It looked like a lot of fun -- like a motorcycle stunt show, martial arts demonstration and pyrotechnics spectacular all rolled into one -- and since it involves motorcycles, it was right up the boys' alley.  Imagine our surprise when Feld Entertainment invited us to watch Nuclear Cowboyz when it comes to San Jose on March 29-30!   The kids were so excited, and even though I'm not a motorcycle fan like my kids and husband, watching Monster Jam has taught me to stay open minded and expand my horizons.  I enjoyed Monster Jam, and I think I'm going to enjoy Nuclear Cowboyz even more!  I've since found out a bit more about the show, and it promises to be a pretty amazing spectacle. Here’s the official show description:

About the show
The highly acclaimed 2014 Nuclear Cowboyz® freestyle motocross (FMX) tour is the most explosive choreographed arena-based production in the world featuring the saga of an allied tribe, the Nuclear Cowboyz, whose sole commitment is to defeat an indestructible evil tyrant and her army. Nuclear Cowboyz features a storyline conveyed through more than 1000 gravity-defying freestyle stunts performed by the globe’s most dominant freestyle athletes. The action-packed show is complete with mind-bending performances by world-famous Shaolin Kung Fu Warriors, stunning laser effects, the largest indoor pyrotechnics show and an infectious soundtrack comprised of heavy metal, electronic dubstep and alternative hip hop. 

Entering its fifth touring year, Nuclear Cowboyz 2014 is led by an award-winning creative team and features the world’s top freestyle motocross athletes, including multi-time X Games medalists Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg, Taka Higashino, Mike Mason, Matt Buyten, Ronnie Faisst and Colten Moore as well as freestyle heavyweights Derek Garland, Jimmy Fitzpatrick, Nick Dunne, Brody Wilson, James Carter, Marco Picado and more.

Check out the video below to get a sneak peek of the 2014 show. It's out of this world!

Here's some show trivia to give you a better idea of what goes on:

How many combined X Games medals do the Nuclear Cowboyz riders have? 43
How many stunts can be seen in the show? Over 1000
How many total flips are in the show? Over 200
How many total performers are in the 2014 Nuclear Cowboyz show? 29
Which rider won an X Games gold medal in Step Up during his rookie year/X Games debut? Matt Buyten
What age did Jeremy “Twitch” Stenberg start riding dirt bikes? Age 2
Which rider is commonly known for introducing The Captain trick? Nick Dunne
How many total North American cities has Nuclear Cowboyz toured since 2010? 31
Which Nuclear Cowboyz rider is from the small town of Templeton, Massachusetts? Brody Wilson
Where is Taka Higashino from? Osaka, Japan
Which Nuclear Cowboyz rider is from Costa Rica? Marco Picado
Who was the first rider to back flip while on fire during the show? Jimmy Fitzpatrick
During his free time, which Nuclear Cowboyz rider pilots a 27ft sailboat“Mayhem”? Derek Garland
Which Nuclear Cowboyz rider introduced the The Shaolin (FMX trick)? Ronnie Faisst

Doesn't it sound like a show that's going to get your heartrate zooming?  We'll see you at the SAP Center in San Jose on March 29-30 for Nuclear Cowboyz!


Save $5 on tickets to Nuclear Cowboyz
Use code MOM to save $5 on tickets to a Nuclear Cowboyz show.  Savings not valid on VIP Fallout Zone or Gold Circle seats. Savings not valid day of show.



Disclosure: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre‐Show events. Show information (in italics) is provided by Feld Entertainment. The views and opinions expressed here are my own.

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Monster Jam show review

I received complimentary show tickets

Last weekend we took the kids to see Monster Jam at Oakland's O.Co Coliseum.  This was Alfie and the kids' second time to see the show; the first time was about five years ago in Reno.  I opted to stay in the hotel and catch up on a few hours of Me Time, so before this weekend, I truly didn't understand what all the fuss was about.  When Feld Entertainment sent us the invitation, all the kids -- yes, and Alfie -- screamed in excitement; even my girly 12 year-old Pea was excited.  I was looking forward to spending time with the family, of course, but monster trucks aren't really my thing, and I expected to spend most of my time staring at my phone, skimming Facebook and Instagram.

Boy, was I wrong.  I was pretty much glued to my seat for the entire event!  It's hard to look away from the sight of giant trucks with wheels taller than grown men, racing each other on dirt tracks, driving over old cars, flying off hills like ski jumpers, trying desperately to stay upright.  It's like a circus act that never gets old, because each truck is different and each driver drives differently and does different tricks.  The first part of the show consisted of Monster Jam trucks racing each other in pairs.  The losers were eliminated and the winners moved on to quarterfinals, semifinals, and the big final (the winner qualified for the Monster Jam finals in Las Vegas).  The second part of the show was a freestyle competition where Monster Jam trucks had 90 seconds (plus an additional 30 seconds for bonus points) to go around the track and impress the judges (and viewers) with leaps, spins, and bounds.

It's amazing what the drivers can make their trucks do.  Imagine the tricks that BMX bikers can do -- but imagine a ten thousand pound truck doing it.  Yes, they even did some flips, which were probably accidental, but the crowd absolutely roared whenever a truck would flip or tip over.  They roared even louder when the truck managed to get upright again!  The drivers are absolutely crazy (although I'm sure they're actually highly capable stuntmen).  They really pushed themselves and their trucks to the limit -- sometimes to the point of shaving the whole side off a truck!

I really didn't expect to enjoy myself so much, so I'm really glad I attended.  Check out your nearest Monster Jam event and take the whole family, it's a lot of fun!  If you're attending a Monster Jam event, here are three tips I have for you and your family to enjoy the event even more:

Bring earplugs
The O.Co Coliseum is an outdoor venue, but it was still extremely loud!   I'm sure I would have been rendered temporarily deaf if Alfie hadn't brought earplugs for the whole family (he rides motorcycles and loves attending races, so he's an old pro at this!).  You can buy disposable earplugs in sporting goods stores that will muffle the sound so well that you won't be able to hear the person beside you -- but still allow you to hear the announcer.  You could also bring earphones or earbuds.  If all else fails, wad up some tissue paper and stuff it in your ear.  It's especially important to protect the ears of children!

Arrive early
The O.Co Coliseum has a capacity of over 60,000, and it was about 80% full.  There are only 10,000 parking spaces, so that's a lot of people looking for parking!  The parking lot closed about 1 hour before showtime, leaving many frustrated families (mine included) having to turn around and look for the overflow lots after waiting almost an hour in line for parking.  Before you go, check your venue's seating capacity and parking capacity to help you plan your arrival time.  I recommend planning to arrive at least an hour before showtime -- you can always grab dinner or join the Pit Party while waiting for the show to start!  Don't forget to check public transportation options!

Buy a Pit Pass
If you're going to arrive early anyway, make the most of your time by joining the pre-show Pit Party!  Pit Party passes cost just $10 per person at our venue (prices may vary with location so don't quote me on that!) and you get to see the Monster Trucks up close.  You can take photos with the trucks and the drivers, wander around, soak up the atmosphere, and get the whole family revved up for the main event!



Disclosure: : I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-Show events. Show information (in italics) is provided by Feld Entertainment. The views and opinions expressed here are my own.
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Get $5 off regular priced tickets to Monster Jam at the Oracle Arena, Oakland

Get ready to have a Monster of a time!  Monster Jam, the ultimate monster truck show, is coming to Oakland's Oracle Arena on February 22, 2014.  Alfie took the kids to Monster Jam several years ago, and they all loved the show.  They came back full of superlatives --  cool, amazing, loud, fun, great -- and couldn't wait to watch it again.  This year, they're getting their wish, because Feld Entertainment is sending us to the show!  When Jammy found out, his eyes lit up and his mouth widened into a grin, and he said, "Ooooh, I can't wait to see the car that turns into a robot, mom.  It's the coolest thing ever, just like Transformers, but for real!  You're going to love it, mom!".  With that kind of endorsement, how could I not look forward to Monster Jam?  Keep reading for a description of the show, some Monster Truck trivia, and a discount code good for $5 off show tickets!

About Monster Jam
Monster Jam is the most exciting form of family motorsports entertainment on the planet.  The stars of the show are the biggest performers on four wheels: the Monster Jam trucks! The twelve-feet-tall, ten-thousand-pound machines will bring you to your feet, racing and ripping up a custom-designed track full of obstacles to soar over - OR smash through. The 2014 touring season brings more Monster Jam excitement providing entertainment tailored perfectly for your family's budget, and these colorful, larger-than-life beasts are sure to capture the hearts of both young and old.

Monster Jam® Trucks: Grave Digger® driven by Charlie Pauken, El Diablo℠ driven by JP, Mohawk Warrior® driven by George Balhan, Lucas Oil Crusader® driven by Linsey Weenk, Captain's Curse driven by Alex Blackwell, Metal Mulisha driven by Todd Leduc, New Earth Authority℠ driven by Norm Miller, Shocker driven by Pat Gerber, Captain USA driven by Travis Groth, Double Trouble driven by Tyler Groth, El Toro Loco® driven by Dan Rodoni, Tropical Thunder - driver TBA, Devastator driven by Mark Schroeder, Time Fly's driven by Kelvin Ramer, Detour driven by Garrett Ladelle and Titan driven by Donald Epidendio!! Subject to change without notice.

About Monster Jam trucks
Today’s Monster Jam® trucks use lightweight bodies and tires so more strength and weight can be put into the frame without sacrificing speed, maneuverability, or safety.

1. Body – Made of fiberglass, a Monster Jam truck body is custom designed to create a character or theme for the truck. Custom body trucks can be carved by hand out of styrofoam and wood to create a “plug” which is then used to create a fiberglass body mold or created by computers.

2. Driver Seat – Most Monster Jam trucks have the driver seated in the center of the vehicle so he or she can best see the track for weight distribution. The seats are custom molded to each driver’s body and all drivers use head and neck restraint devices to keep their heads secure during rough landings. As a safety measure, all seatbelts employ a 5 point harness to restrain the driver’s body.

3. Paint – Most Monster Jam trucks feature highly designed, customized airbrushed artwork on their bodies. Airbushing is expensive and time consuming as some trucks require more than 40 hours of paint time. Monster Jam body fabricators are always assured lots of work though, as their custom creations are routinely destroyed during the shows.

4. Engines – Custom-built, supercharged and methanol-injected, a Monster Jam truck engine burns up to 10 liters of methanol per run (approximately 80 meters) and delivers about 1,500 horsepower.

5. Suspension System – In order to allow the drivers to withstand the punishing impacts of jumping and crashing a Monster Jam truck during a performance, each truck is equipped with specially-engineered extra long 76cm shock absorbers filled with oil and nitrogen gas that are installed with each tire.

6. Tires – Each Monster Jam truck tire is custom made. They must be 66 inches high and 43 inches wide. The average Monster Jam truck team will go through 8 tires in one year. Tires are designed differently to satisfy various track conditions and driver preference. Carving just one tire requires over 50 hours of exacting labor.


Save $5 off regular ticket price
Save $5 on normally priced $25 tickets with code MOM. Savings not valid day of show.


Disclosure: I am a Feld Family Ambassador, and in exchange for my time and efforts in attending shows and reporting my opinion within this blog, as well as keeping you advised of the latest discount offers, Feld Entertainment has provided me with complimentary tickets to Feld shows and opportunities to attend private Feld pre-Show events. Show information (in italics) is provided by Feld Entertainment  The views and opinions expressed here are my own.
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How to show your Disney Side outside the Disney parks

Have you seen this #DisneySide commercial?  It's hilarious!  I'm loving all the ways that people are showing their Disney Sides, but this is definitely my favorite, because it shows a ordinary dad showing his Disney Side in an ordinary DIY store.  Although Disneyland and Walt Disney World are the best places to show your Disney Side, unfortunately it's not always possible to enjoy time there.  Much as we would like to, we can't spend every day in a Disney park, so we have to bring the Disney magic home with us and keep it alive until the next time we visit!

Fortunately, there are so many fun ways to show your Disney Side, even when your next Disney vacation is miles away.  Here are my favorite ways to celebrate our Disney Side when we can't be inside a Disney park:

Wear a Mickey shirt

One of the easiest ways to keep the magic alive at home is to dress the part!  Disney merchandise is everywhere, and you can get Disney-themed apparel at practically any retailer in town. Even Alfie, who doesn't normally wear Disney tees even inside the park, loves wearing the Jack Skellington tee I gave him last year.


"Disney-fy" your accessories

If Disney apparel isn't your style, sprinkle some pixie dust on your accessories.  Seeing Minnie Mouse on my phone every time I pick it up always makes me smile.


Munch on Disney food

Do you find yourself craving Disney park treats?  Make them at home!   Mickey pancakes, Mickey cookies, Mickey beignets, churros, turkey legs, corn dogs -- even my all-time favorite Dole Pineapple Whip -- can all be enjoyed at home.  The taste might not be exactly the same as the real thing, but they're close enough to bring back those magical memories.

Watch a live Disney show

Disney adds heaps of pixie dust to their stage shows, so they are a cut above the rest, just like everything they do!  Current Disney Broadway productions include The Lion King, Newsies and Aladdin.  I had the pleasure of watching Beauty and the Beast on Broadway many years ago, and again in San Francisco a few years ago, and it is one of the most entertaining productions around.  The Lion King remains on my bucket list, and now that Frozen is going to Broadway, I've got another show to watch :)  If you don't live near a city with a Disney theatrical production, never fear.  Disney has some great live touring shows:  Disney Live, Disney Live Jr, and Disney on Ice!  These productions tour all over the country, and they feature amazing singers, dancers and special effects.  We watch Disney on Ice practically every time it comes into town!


Watch Disney on the silver screen

Last week I listed all the movies I want to see in theatres this year, and a quarter of them were Disney moveis! Disney theatrical releases in 2014 include: Muppets Most Wanted, Captain America: Winter Soldier, Bears, Million Dollar Arm, Maleficent, Planes: Fire and Rescue, Guardians of the Galaxy and Into the Woods.


Visit a Disney Museum

You don't have to pay theme park prices to get your fill of Disney memorabilia.  There are several Disney museums scattered across the country, and if you're lucky enough to live near them (or are planning a trip nearby), they're definitely worth a visit.

* The Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco, CA celebrates the life and legacy of Walt Disney.
* The Walt Disney Hometown Museum is located in Walt's hometown of Marceline, Missouri.  The museum contains letters, family artifacts, and other memorabilia.
* There's talk of Walt Disney's birth home in Chicago, IL being turned into a museum.  Right now it's privately owned, so you can't enter, but you can still drive by 2156 N. Tripp Avenue to pay homage to Walt's birthplace.
* Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry is currently running a special exhibition featuring over 300 artifacts owned by the Walt Disney Company.  Treasures of the Walt Disney Archives, presented by D23: The Official Disney Fan Club runs at the museum until May 2014.
* Walt Disney Concert Hall doesn't have any Disney memorabilia that I'm aware of (I could be wrong: I haven't visited the place myself), but the place is gorgeous, one of the few examples of modern architecture that I really admire (and I do speak from personal experience: I've seen the outside of the building!).  The hall offers free self-guided and guided audio tours which I'd love to do someday.


Look for Hidden Mickeys

Hunting for Hidden Mickeys is a popular park activity... but Hidden Mickeys are all around, even outside the parks!  A drop of juice, a strangely-shaped cheese puff, a dalmatian's spot, a puffy cloud, a bowl of Cheerios cereal.... almost anything can hide a Hidden Mickey!  It's surprising how many you can find if you keep your eyes open.  Hidden Mickey Hunting is a game you and your family can play anywhere, anytime.


Throw a DisneySide party

Every day is a celebration at a Disney park, so why not throw a Disney party at home?  Any occasion is a great opportunity to celebrate your Disney Side:  a birthday party, a graduation party, a baby shower, a Halloween party, a Valentine's party, anything!  You don't even need an occasion to throw a Disney movie marathon session, a Disney-themed game night, or a Disney-themed playdate. Whether it's family members only or the whole neighborhood is invited, throwing in Mickey, Minnie, a Disney Princess, Buzz Lightyear, Lightning McQueen, Jake and the Neverland Pirates, or any Disney character is sure to make the event magical!
To celebrate their Disney Side, families across the country will be hosting #DisneySide parties and letting their Disney Side shine!  Every celebration will be unique, and every celebration will be special.  I'm excited to have been chosen as one of the hosts, and starting February 15, we'll be documenting our celebrations on our blogs and on social media.  Follow the fun with the #DisneySide hashtag, and get inspiration to host your own DisneySide celebration with recipes, activity kits and tips on www.disneysidecelebrations.com/.  How will you celebrate your DisneySide this year?


Disclosure: I did not receive a sample or monetary compensation for this post. I will be hosting a #DisneySide @Home celebration featuring party favors and accessories provided by Disney and MomSelect. The views and opinions expressed here are my own.
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