Fresh Angeles

Talk Nerdy To Me

2012-01-17T16:40:00.000-08:00

One of the best parts about having an older sister is being able to wear their clothes. Since Kaia and Taylar are so far apart in age, they don't exactly wear the same size. Enter in the glamorous world of accessories! Kaia just loves wearing her older sister's glasses, mustaches necklace, and fedora hats. It sure is fun being a girl! And it's even more fun to be a girl in nerd glasses with a mustache, no? Wow times sure have changed! Heh. (photos taken on my iPhone and edited in Instagram.)

If you love these glasses as much as we do...

Hello Kitty Nerd Glasses from Sidecca.
(I couldn't find them online, but we bought them at the store in the Burbank Mall.)

Holidays at Disneyland: A Family Tradition

2011-12-21T17:32:00.000-08:00

Going to Disneyland for the holidays is something that our family has done for a long time. It's a family tradition and in my family, ya don't mess with tradition!

It's something that we can all count on each year. We know that no matter how crazy things get, how hectic and busy our lives become that we will all come together and meet for a family date at Disneyland during the Christmas Season.

There's so much to see and do there that we actually have to go a few times during the holiday season just to get it all in. Thank god for annual passes. And even then, we still end up missing a few things - how is that even possible? But one thing we never miss is the Haunted Mansion Holiday, which is taken over by Jack Skellington and his friends! It's perfect for kids of all ages, and the whimsy of it all makes it a lot less scary.

This year was no different and we all planned a day to visit the Merriest place on earth. We attended the family media day and had some really special photo ops at the reception. The fact that our youngest daughter had quality one-on-one time with some of her favorite characters is absolutely priceless. I mean how many kids can say that they've played tag w/ Pinocchio?

It was an amazing day and we made a lot of family memories that I know I will treasure forever. That's one of the biggest reasons that moms love Disneyland, knowing that when you spend a day in the magic kingdom you're going to take with you a whole new set of moments. By the time we got to take our family photo at the ginormous tree on main street the youngest one was already asleep in the stroller. Oh well, looks like we will have to try again next year!

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort are not to be missed, so you must visit by January 8th to catch all of the festivities. For more info on all things Disney Holidays check out the WEBSITE. And when you visit the park, be sure to take one of those silly, crazy, awesome JUMPING pictures, like the one below! PRICELESS!!!!

Disclosure: I was not paid for this post. I was given passes for me and my family to attend a media preview day. The opinions on this blog are 100% mine and 100% fresh!

Merry Grinchmas To All, And To All A Goodnight!

2011-12-14T16:59:00.000-08:00

You'd think living in Los Angeles and working in the Entertainment Industry that I'd be jaded with all things Hollywood, but it's actually the opposite. I love LA and anything that has to do with making movies, music and television - Enter in Universal Studios Hollywood Theme Park where movie making comes to life! This past weekend I attended a special media preview at Universal Studios Hollywood. I was excited, because it's been over 10 years since I've been. Plus it's literally like 5 minutes away from my house which is a total bonus! All of the other So Cal amusement parks that we frequent are much further away.

Their holiday, or should I say Who-liday Celebration opened this weekend and goes thru January 8th. It centers all around the Grinch from "How the Grinch Stole Christmas." It's more the Jim Carrey version then the Dr. Suess cartoon version, but it's great all the same. They roll out the red and green carpet just for their guests. There's a meet and greet with the Grinch and his dog Max (Cutest Dog Ever) in a designated area to play with real snow, which is quite a thrill for these Southern Californians.

They also have a wide varieties of characters represented all over the park in shows like Shrek 4D and play areas like The Adventures of Curious George which is great for younger guests like my daughter. But they also have big rides for my older kids and husband like Revenge of the Mummy and Jurassic Park: The Ride.

Then there's the world famous "Studio Tour" which is now hosted by Jimmy Fallon. It has all of the old classics that I remember like the flooding, Jaws and the Bates Motel. There has also been newly added features such as King Kong in 3D, Fast and the Furious Cars and a tour of Wisteria Lane on the Desperate Housewives set. Our 4 year old got scared on a few parts of the tour (I'm talking to you King Kong 360 3-D) so make sure to use your own discretion when it comes to the younger children in your group.

We finished the day with a reading of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas" by overnight YouTube sensation, Greyson Chance and the Wholiday Tree Lighting Ceremony and Show. Which is take your breath away gorgeous and it snows too! Not real snow, but the fake soap bubble snow, ah the magic of Hollywood!

We really want to get season passes, and with the current deal they are offering of buy a day, get all of 2012 for free it makes it to good to pass up. So Cal click HERE for that great deal! They also have a Front of the Line Pass and an All You Can Eat Pass if you're interested. Check them out on Twitter @UniStudios for all of the latest info. See ya on the set! *ACTION*

Full Disclosure: This is not a paid post. I was given passes from Universal Studios for me and my family to enter the park. The opinions on this blog are 100% mine and 100% fresh!

The Hub: Bringing the Old School to the New School

2011-11-01T12:09:00.000-07:00

I used to have Strawberry Shortcake Dolls.

My husband used to play with Transformers.

I remember loving to brush the hair of My Little Ponies.

I remember adopting my first Pound Puppy.
I used to watch Jem and the Holograms faithfully as a girl. (It's showtime Synergy)

Besides being really awesome back in the day, what do all of these things have in common?
They all live together! I mean they all have a home at The Hub. The new(er) network that is bringing back all of our old favorites by introducing them to our children in a new way. This channel is for families of all ages, sizes, and even for people who are just big kids. (You're probably already tuning in.) My favorite show on the network is Jem and the Holograms, which also was my favorite cartoon as a little girl: "Jem is my name no one else is the same, Jem is my Name." The Hub has been on air for about a year. It's run by Discovery Communications and Hasbro, Inc. Two companies who know a thing or two about entertainment.

I was excited to learn more about what they have going on at The Hub TV channel and online HubWorld.com at a recent "Haunted Hub" event in LA. We tricked, we treated, we played, we hunted, we crafted, and we watched. WE MET STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE!!!! Oh sorry, I was just a tad excited to take my photo with her. (A childhood dream - lol) We saw a preview of the My Little Pony Friendship is Magic Halloween Episode. It was very cute. They've been running a ton of Halloween programming to get all of your little spirits in the holiday mood. And did you know that there is a new berry character in Strawberry Shortcake's world... Her name is Cherry Jam and she's just as delish as all of the other girls! Check her out on Berry Bitty Adventures. There's also plenty of shows for the older kids like R. L. Stine's The Haunting Hour and Goosebumps. (remember those) Coming soon to The Hub is Clue a new series to be introduced on the network, sounds perfect for tween kids. Notice a trend here... Popular games and toys of our time being reinvented and recreated on The Hub TV Network. It's pretty genius to me.

On their website, HubWorld.com there are plenty of Games to play with or without your family, including all of your favorite board games like Scrabble, Pictureka, The Game of Life, and also Nerf games. Can you say Family Game Night?

There's also a club you can join, called Club Hub. It's free and gets you access to cool Hub World stuff.

And learn more info on their Twitter and Facebook accounts.

Full Disclosure: I was not paid for this post. I was invited to a media event & screening. (It's truly outrageous, truly, truly, truly outrageous.)

Our Day with Disney Interactive

2011-10-28T15:43:00.000-07:00

Every parent knows about the Disney Parks, Disney Movies, and the Disney Store but there is one entity of Disney that sometimes gets overlooked... the Disney Interactive Media Group. Actually you may not have even heard of them unless your kid is a gamer. Or even if you have heard of them, you may not know exactly what they do.

I attended a special Halloween Bash the other night with my family hosted by Disney Interactive and found out all of the amazing things that they produce. Who knew? They have games, apps, crafts, recipes, penguins, fairies, and more! Here's a little breakdown... (You're Welcome - LOL)

Disney Family.Com & FamilyFun.Com

For the Martha Stewarts out there and even for the not-so-crafty moms and dads, Disney has a site online that can inspire you to create holiday masterpieces. Check out Disney Family.Com and Family Fun.Com. Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Birthdays, they've got it all. If crafting isn't your thing, maybe cooking is more up your alley. There are fabulous recipes with plenty of healthy meal choices for your family, even those with picky eaters. (I'm so there) Check out these Halloween Cupcakes sure to scare up some smiles at your house or Halloween Party.

Disney Interactive Studios

Disney Universe just launched last week, but this is the Epic Mickey of this year. This was definitely the most popular game of the event. Everyone loved playing it... Including Stitch himself! That's not the only game that is new and exciting, there's also Cars 2 The Video Game, LEGO Pirates of the Caribbean the Video Game, Phineas and Ferb Across the 2nd Dimension. (I think Phineas and Ferb was my daughter's favorite game, but I also think that she has a crush on Phineas - Shhh! Don't say anything.)

Disney Mobile

Now that iPhone, and iPads are the latest gaming systems for the younger generation (My 4 year old is hooked) I'm always looking for kid-friendly game apps that will make her sit still in one place long enough for me to grocery shop. Here are 2 that are sure to do that. Where's My Water App said to be the new "Angry Birds" of apps. This Crocodile Swampy is all the buzz lately. He's even got a Twitter Account and Facebook Page. And he's getting his own web series next year too! That's one Cool Croc. They also just came out with another App called Puffle Launch for the new iOS software. We haven't played yet, but any game that has launch in the title, I already know my daughter will like it.

Disney Online Studios

There are whole virtual worlds that you may not even be aware of... I know, it's crazy right? They're full of Penguins and Fairies and you can do all sorts of cool stuff if you become a member, like a Halloween Party and an Awesome Contest.

Club Penguin.Com

Pixie Hollow.Com

Full Disclosure: I was not paid or compensated for this post. I was invited to an event to help facilitate my review. These opinions are 100% mine & 100% fresh!

Highly Inappropriate Parenting

2011-10-24T09:04:00.000-07:00

So these photos are probably totally inappropriate, but they made me Laugh. Out. Loud!

I hope they do the same for you on this Monday!

Holy Giant Squash Batman!

Back to School

2011-10-21T14:04:00.000-07:00

Do you ever have a moment where you want to stop time and stay there forever?

I know that most kids started school back in September, but for our youngest, she had her first day last week. She will be 5 next year and starting Kindergarten, so we thought that it would be most beneficial to her education if she went to pre-k. So she's back in school and couldn't be happier. The toughest part is getting her up in the mornings, because she is definitely is a night owl. (like her mama - ahem) We got her a new backpack (Disney - Jessie from Toy Story) and she was super excited about it, the smile says it all. I want to remember this face, this smile, this moment FOREVER!!!

The Lion King Returns

2011-10-13T19:29:00.000-07:00

For the first time in years The Lion King returns to DVD, this time you can purchase it on Blu-Ray and High Definition. Hakuna Matata Baby!

It's the classic Disney tale we all know and love. A coming of age story of Simba, the lion cub who will one day be king. After suffering the loss of his father, he runs away from his family and home. Being that you can never truly run away from your problems, he eventually realizes that he must go back to his pride and claim the land back from his sinister uncle. Good triumphs over evil, and Simba becomes king of the jungle. You know, thinking back... He just couldn't wait to be King. (lol)

We got a chance to see a sneak peek of the Lion King in 3D at the D23 Expo.
It was stunning. Don't you want to see The Circle Of Life in all of it's glory.

I got all 4 of my kids together (a miracle) and asked them to talk about what they love about THE LION KING. Needless to say, this video is classic in it's own right! Here are ADAM, DEVEN, TAYLAR and KAIA doing their review of the movie.

Can You Feel The Love Tonight?

For more info you can go to the official website for THE LION KING.

Or you can like the page of the LION KING Facebook.

Full Disclosure: This is not a paid post. I was given a DVD to help facilitate the review.

These opinions are 100% ours and 100% fresh.

Camp Snoopy gets a Makeover for Halloween

2011-10-07T06:26:00.000-07:00

Fall seems to be becoming everyone's favorite season. My family loves it too! Each year I find out about new activities and fun festive places to take the kids during October. Last weekend we went to Knott's Berry Farm (America's first theme park - Ahem) and had a family fun day! It's been years since I had been there, like the last time I was there I was in High School at a Cheerleading Competition. (Yeah I know, another decade ago.) Kaia had never been, so it was a real treat for my husband and I to experience this with her.

Well, we all know about Knott's Scary Farm because it's become so popular over the years. And now that my older kids are all in High School they love doing crazy scary stuff like that. (I remember being that young once.) But what you may not know is that they have a non scary celebration too just perfect for the younger crowd. Camp Snoopy gets a Halloween makeover, during the month of October it becomes Camp Spooky. A great place for families with kids from ages 3-11 to enjoy all sorts of Halloween activities. My 4 year old daughter enjoyed shows, crafts, a Monster Dance Party, and Snoopy's Costume Parade too. Kids are encouraged to dress up in costume (not mandatory) because they also get to trick-or-treat which is always a big hit with my little one. The good news is that all of this holiday fun is included with regular park admission. For more info be sure to visit the Knott's website.

Follow Knott's on Twitter
Like Knott's on Facebook

Full Disclosure: I was not paid for this post. I was invited to a Family media event and had a spooktacular time. Thank you Snoopy for having us. These opinions are 100% mine and 100% fresh.

Mickey's Halloween Party 2011

2011-10-05T23:19:00.000-07:00

It's one of my favorite nights of the year.

It's the one event I look forward to the whole year long.

No, it's not the Oscars, the Grammys or the Emmys.

It's Mickey's Halloween Party at Disneyland. My family and I go together every year. We love Halloween, Disney & being together - Wicked Fun for Everyone!

There are so many things that are awesome about Halloween Time, it's hard to know where to begin! They have even more Spooktacular Attractions and Events going on during select nights of Mickey's Halloween party. (Special Admission fees apply) It's hard to do & see it all in just one night! Believe me, I'm already trying to go back again this year.

My list of things you MUST See & Do while you're there:

*Mickey's Costume Cavalcade Parade*

*VIP Dance Parties with Coloring Stations set up for the kids*

*Jack Skellington's Haunted Mansion Holiday*

*Halloween Screams Fireworks Spectacular*

*Trick or Treating for ALL Ages* (Adults Too!)

*Meet and Greets with your favorite Characters and Villains*

Here's a few of the best tips I can give to those who are planning on attending:

Get there early & plan to stay late. You get to enter the park early, before the actual party begins. Score! Also it's a lot of fun to cover & not that much time to do it in.

Buy your tickets online & ahead of time. There are nights where the price is only $44. Other nights prices go up to as much as $64. Do your Disney research!

Bring your camera AND your video camera. There are priceless moments that you WON'T want to miss like dancing with the characters.

Don't stress on the long lines for candy, they move fairly quickly.

Get a Corn dog while you're there. That has nothing to do with the Halloween Party, except that Disneyland has the BEST Corn dogs EVER!

Full Disclosure: I was not paid for this post. I was given tickets to Mickey's Halloween Party by Disneyland. These opinions are 100% mine & 100% fresh.

Winner Winner Chicken Dinner

2011-09-23T16:59:00.001-07:00

My giveaway for 250 free business cards from UPrinting.com closed Friday night. I picked a winner Saturday morning & I'm pleased to announce that Beth from Clipping Money is the WINNER! (Check your email)

I swear I am the worst person to do a giveaway. I want everyone to win. I feel bad for all the people who don't get chosen. So in order to make it as fair as possible, I use random.org to pick a winner for me. It picks a number and I go down to the comment that matches that number. Thank you to all who entered and Congrats to Beth!

Here is the proof:

Happy Talk Like A Pirate Day

2011-09-19T17:20:00.000-07:00

Check out some of the cool Pirate DVDs coming soon... your Mateys are sure to enjoy! YO-HO!

Set sail when JAKE AND THE NEVER LAND PIRATES: YO HO, MATEY AWAY! lands on DVD 9/27/11. Disney Junior's #1 Series "Jake and the Never Land Pirates" releases it's first music soundtrack and DVD. It's a very popular show with preschool children ages 2-7, like my daughter, and my husband and I even find ourselves singing the tunes by Sharky and Bones. The soundtrack is available tomorrow. Roll Up The Map, anyone?

And everyone's favorite Pirate, Captain Jack Sparrow is back, in Disney's PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES. You can pick up your copy (I know my husband will be getting his to add this to our collection) on 10/18/11. Savvy???

Also be sure to check out these Pirate-Speak terms to wow your Mateys!

*Full Disclosure: I was not paid or compensated in any way for this post. The original thoughts expressed on this blog are 100% mine and 100% fresh.*

Do You Need New Business Cards?

2011-09-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Most of you know that my sisters and I have started this new adventure called DISNEY SISTERS, a new blog about our love for all things Disney. Well anytime you start a new business one of the most important things that you need are Business Cards.

I first heard about UPrinting, an online printing company a few months ago from a graphic designer friend who had just used them for his business cards. I liked his cards, and when it came time to get our our cards done, I knew that I wanted to try UPrinting for their business card design services. I'm always nervous when trying out a new company. Maybe it's just me, but I don't want to be disappointed for something that I paid good money for. Especially when ordering things online, because you can't see the final product until it's done and at that point it can already be too late. Plus I was under a tight deadline to get these particular cards back, because we wanted them for the D23 Expo.

Check out how adorable our cards turned out... thebomb.com right??? (Front & Back)

The cards (as you can see) are amazing. We are so thrilled with how they turned out and what great quality they are. I've gotten my business cards for various projects in the past and I've used a few different companies. But now I have started recommending UPrinting to my friends and family. The bottom line is they provide good quality business card printing at a great price.

They also create other things that will help make your life easier including Calendars, Flyers, Greeting Cards, Invitations, Postcards, Posters, and much more... and now folks it's time for a GIVEAWAY!!!!

Aren't you ready to update your Business Cards??? Or maybe you're all out & just haven't gotten around to ordering more! Maybe you can't afford it. Hey times are tough right now, nobody knows that more then my husband & I. Well now's your BIG chance to win some for FREE!

Prize Details:
One (1) Lucky Winner will receive 250 Die Cut Business Cards
1.75" x 3.5", 2" x 3.5" , or 2" x 2" Diameter (Circle)
Rounded Corners, Leaf, Rounded Single-Corner, Half-Circle, or Circle
14 pt. Cardstock Gloss / Matte / High Gloss (UV), or 13 pt. Cardstock Uncoated
6 Business Days Turnaround
Limited to US Residents 18 years or older.

How To Enter:
*With each comment PLEASE leave your name & email address, so that I can get in touch w/ you easily if you win!*

1) Please leave a comment below saying which shape of die cut business card you like the best?
(Hint: Rounded Corners, Leaf, Rounded Single-Corner, Half-Circle, or Circle)

For extra entries you may do this, or let me know if you already do these things:
(please leave a separate comment for each)

2) Follow Fresh Angeles with Google Friend Connect
3) Like Fresh Angeles on Facebook
4) Follow me on twitter: @jessicafuselier

For even more entries you can:
(please leave a separate comment for each)

5) Like UPrinting on Facebook
6) Follow UPrinting on twitter: @UPrinting
7) Follow Disney Sisters with Google Friend Connect
8) Like Disney Sisters on Facebook
9) Follow Disney Sisters on twitter: @DisneySisters

10) Tweet about this contest with a link to this post... (up to once a day)
(Here's a sample that you may use or create one of your own:)
Do you need New BUSINESS CARDS? Enter this #Giveaway & #Win 250 Die Cut Cards w/ #Free Shipping from @UPrinting www.FreshAngeles.com

This Contest Ends at 11:59pm on Thursday 9/22/11

I will pick a winner on Friday morning 9/23/11 & notify by email. Please respond within 24 hours to ensure your prize. Good Luck to all who enter!

Full Disclosure: This giveaway is sponsored by UPrinting, no monetary compensation was given & I will receive a set of business cards for hosting. I did order my first set of business cards & paid for them myself. The only reason that I am doing this post is I was very pleased with the results. As always these opinions are 100% mine and 100% fresh.

Emergency Room Experience

2011-09-03T08:40:00.000-07:00

You know life just wouldn't be as fun if you couldn't spend an evening at the local Emergency Room from time to time... (It's easier to joke because she's alright, but she does have a UTI, which is a total bummer.) The even bigger bummer is that she doesn't like pink bubble gum medicine, aka amoxicilian. I mean what kid doesn't like the most delicious medicine in the world? Oh right, mine.

i heart nerds

2011-09-01T21:40:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th Birthday Kaia

2011-08-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

D23 Expo Recap: In Photos

2011-08-23T20:44:00.000-07:00

Remember how I was telling you about becoming a new member of D23 Disney's Ultimate Fan Club? Well this past weekend was the D23 Expo, the event that Disney puts on in appreciation of the fans. Let me just say that it was a whirlwind for me! I went and stayed down at my sisters house for 3 days and 3 nights alone with out my husband or kids. (That's a HUGE deal, because it's the first time I'd been away from Kaia overnight.) Since we have just launched our new site DISNEY SISTERS we thought it was only right that we officially launch it at a Disney Event! And this was THE Disney event not to be missed!

So I will be posting some of the photographic highlights here, but for more in depth coverage, interviews, videos & more photos (yes, we interviewed DAVID ARQUETTE) go to DISNEY SISTERS. BTW have you like us yet on FACEBOOK? Also go follow us on TWITTER too. C'mon it'll be fun!

Here's the some of the highlights in a slideshow for your viewing pleasure:

"D23 Expo 2011"

Create a free slideshow with Picnik!

Newest Member of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club

2011-08-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

I'd like to introduce you to the newest member of D23: Disney Official Fan Club... ME! I am so thrilled to announce that I finally did it, I joined today! EXCITED! You already know I'm a big time Disney Geek. Now it's Official! Hooray!

Some of you may not know what D23 is, so let me give you a quick overview. The "D" stands for Disney and the "23" is the year that The Walt Disney Company was founded. In 2009 they created "The Official Community of Disney Fans" to thank them for their support, by giving them one-of-a-kind opportunities and experiences only available to members. It's a way to bring every Disney fan together, in one very magical group.

There are many reasons that I joined D23, other then just bragging rights that I'm "in" with the in crowd. The biggest reason is access to exclusive "members only" events. Including special screenings, studio tours, meet & greets with Disney Royalty. You also get a nice discount on the D23 EXPO happening in less then 2 weeks at the Anaheim Convention Center. (FYI, You do not have to be a D23 Member to attend the expo.) It's dubbed as the "Ultimate Disney Fan Event" I will be there with my ears on! This is the Daddy of all Conferences for me. I even choose this one over attending (Ahem) Blogher this year, another very popular conference in the Mom Blogging community. Now that's Disney Loyalty, right?

Seriously though once you hear about all of the Disney Awesomeness that will be going down August 19th-21st you will be buying your tickets immediately, if not for yourself, do it for the children. Your precious children! Some of the people who will be attending are: the Cast of A.N.T. Farm, Cast of Kickin' It, Cast of Phineas & Ferb, Dick Van Dyke, David Arquette, Wilmer Valderrama, Melissa Joan Hart, Joey Lawrence, etc. Not to mention the Disney Legends Award Honorees like Jodi Benson (Ariel), Paige O'Hara (Belle), Anika Noni Rose (Tiana), Lea Salonga (Mulan) and many more! We're talking the who's who of Disney!

Here I am meeting some Disney Legends at the Walt Disney Studios a few weeks ago. Thanks to some very special friends in very high places.

Me & Bill Farmer, aka "Goofy"

Me, Roy & Minnie

Me, Walt & Mickey

There's all kinds of Special Discounts & Promotional Stuff throughout the year that only members have access to. It's like belonging to our very own Disney VIP Club. Wait a minute, it's EXACTLY like our very own club! Save on things like Disney's Aulani Resort, Membership at the Aquarium of the Pacific, Lion King in Vegas, Mary Poppins Musical, the ABC TV Store and much more. Just for signing up you get gifts... Disney Swag! Here's some of the cool things that I'm expecting in the mail in 3-4 weeks.

Aren't you just dying to sign up too? Or you can gift a membership to the Disney Geek in your life. Make sure to tell them that I sent ya, with D23's Refer A Fan Program! Thanks! See ya at the Expo!

(Jessica New from North Hollywood, CA)

(Full Disclosure: I was not paid or compensated in any way for this post. I was invited to a luncheon by the D23 Team to learn more about this amazing club & given a gift bag. I did however purchase the D23 Membership on my own. The original thoughts expressed on this blog are 100% mine and 100% fresh.)

Flashback Friday: My Mom & Grandma

2011-08-05T08:39:00.000-07:00

I just HAD to share the most adorable photo that has ever been taken on this earth!!!! I know that's a pretty tough statement to backup... But once you see this picture of my mom as a little girl with my Grandma, I'm sure you will definitely agree! I mean am I right or am I right??? ADORBS!!!

Happy Flashback Friday Everyone! Enjoy your weekend!

Top 10 Reasons Why I Love Chuck E. Cheese

2011-08-02T14:18:00.000-07:00

Everyone I know with kids goes to Chuck E. Cheese at least a few times a year. A party or two, and then the other times you take your child there just for an evening of family fun. There are a lot of good things about the (other) house of mouse. But if you're also like me you noticed there was something that wasn't quite up to par. It was the pizza. I never liked it. It was kind of like cardboard. It was my least favorite thing about going to Chuck E. Cheese... (No Offense Chuck)

Well that has ALL changed. The chefs in Chuck E.'s kitchen have been hard at work cooking up a new recipe and it is finally here. Their pizza got a makeover and now it is delicious. (It kind of reminds me of Shakey's Pizza, which my family loves!) The dough is yummy. It has medium thick crust. Just the right amount of crispness. (Is that even a word) They put the perfect amount of cheese on it, 100% real mozzarella. It tasted really fresh. I am excited that I can finally order a pizza at Chuck E. Cheese and enjoy it. Yay!

Visit Chuck E. Cheese Online:

WEBSITE (Check Them Out)

FACEBOOK (Like Them)

TWITTER (Follow Them)

Here is my Top Ten List of Why I Love Chuck E. Cheese:

10. Family Deals

Go online HERE and sign up for the Email Club for coupons, birthday prizes, and kid's activities & games.

9. The Ticket Blaster

Where the Birthday Kid can get a chance to win extra tickets and prizes.

8. Studio C & Variety of Shows -

Studio C, where a kid can be a star. Also they play familiar shows on "CTV" like Wow Wow Wubzy and Veggie Tales. (Some of my daughter's favorites)

7. Beverages -

They have more soda choices than most restaurants! They even have Caffeine Free Diet Pepsi and Gatorade. (2 of our favorite beverage choices)

6. Food Choices -

They other food that they serve like their salad bar (which I get every time we go there) and Wings. (which my husband gets every time we go there)

5. Chuck E. Live -

The man himself makes an appearance every 30 minutes for the kids to meet and greet and dance with. It's pretty fun.

4. Skee Ball -

Everyone's favorite carnival game, young and old. I must play a few rounds each time I go.

3. Beer -

It seems as though they know what to serve to keep the parents happy. Enough Said.

2. Tokens -

Every game in the place only costs 1 token. Brilliant move.

1. The NEW Pizza -

It really is good. You should try it for yourself and see. (Don't forget to sign up for their online deals, they totally save you a lot of money)

Chuck E. Cheese, "Where a kid can be a kid" and... where a parent can have fun too, relax with a nice cold beer, enjoy some delicious pizza & play some skeeball." EVERYBODY WINS!!!

Full Disclosure: I was not paid or compensated for this post. I was invited to try the new pizza and given a gift certificate to purchase food and help facilitate my review. The original thoughts expressed on this blog are 100% mine and 100% fresh just like their new pizza.

Life's A Beach

2011-07-26T20:50:00.000-07:00

We've been spending some time at the Beach this Summer. It's been amazing. Kaia loves the water, her name means "the sea." Collecting shells, soaking up the sun, splashing around in the ocean. These photos were all taken down in Huntington Beach. We are enjoying our summer here in So Cal. Life's A Beach!

Happy Birthday 7-11

2011-07-11T14:07:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday 7-11!

Every year on your birthday you give us a present... A Free Slurpee!

Thanks for always being there 24-7 to give us a Brain Freeze.

We Love You!

Happy Independence Day

2011-07-04T00:11:00.000-07:00

From my family to yours.... on this very special day for America!!!

(ENTERED IN THE RED, WHITE & BLUE PHOTO CHALLENGE ON I HEART FACES.)

A Whole Lot Of Awesome With Paul Frank

2011-06-30T17:30:00.000-07:00

Last week I heard about a cool LA Event that was happening at the Pacific Design Center in West Hollywood. It's one of the many places that I've never been to, but every time I drive by it, I say to myself I want to go there.

A few of my lady friends said they were heading down to a fun event involving Paul Frank Industries & I wanted in. It was filled with Music, Art, Celebs & So Much More!

We have long been fans of Paul Frank & that cute little Monkey, Julius.

Here's my daughter in one of her favorite sweatshirts. But if you want to get your own check out their ONLINE STORE.

The Awesome people at Paul Frank have just launched US Tour called (appropriately enough) The Academy Of Awesome Tour... Coming soon to a city near you! Check out the sweet Winnebago as it travels across the country! Here is the RV TOUR SCHEDULE.

This tour has super fun things that you & your kids will enjoy. Activities like a Gnarly Creation Station, Battle of the Bands, Food, Drinks, Kidzapalooza, Jumpers, Swag, Photos, Balloons and all of the Paul Frank gear (new & vintage) that you could possible imagine!

My husband even designed a Tee Shirt for them. Go CHECK IT OUT & vote for his creation! Then after you do that, go and MAKE YOUR OWN design!

For more info and updates of their Crazy Shenanigan's check them out:

Paul Frank FACEBOOK

Paul Frank TWITTER

(Full Disclosure: I was not paid or compensated in any way for this post. This event was free and open to the general public. I was invited to the event & given a swag bag. Yay Julius! The original thoughts expressed on this blog are 100% mine and 100% fresh.)

Flashback Friday: Me & My Dad

2011-06-17T00:00:00.000-07:00

In honor of Father's Day this Sunday... Thought I'd share some pictures of me & my daddy.

(Circa 1978)

Happy Father's Day Dad!

I love you. Thank you for being such an important man in my life.

Victorious Stars Shine Bright at VIP Concert in Hollywood

2011-06-05T15:13:00.000-07:00

Fresh Angeles & Family at Nickelodeon's Victoria Justice and "Victorious" cast exclusive Walmart Soundcheck concert presented by Unilever's "Don't Fret The Sweat" campaign and Degree Girl at Avalon Theatre on May 26, 2011 in Hollywood, California. (photo not taken by me)

The thought of going to a concert with screaming teenage girls, usually would be enough to send me running in the other direction. (Unless it was the Justin Bieber Concert - of which I would LOVE to go to) But when I got the invite to a concert last week for the cast from the hit Nickelodeon show VICTORIOUS, I was actually pretty excited. One of my favorite pop songs of the moment is "Beggin' on Your Knees" by Victoria Justice. That and the fact that my 13 year old daughter would LOVE me forever if I took her to this VIP Concert. My daughter's favorite performance of the night was Best Friend's Brother. The entire cast did a remake of I Want You Back by The Jackson Five, which of'course us "Old folks" totally loved! They also played a few more songs that really Rocked! Victoria Justice kind of reminds me of a Katy Perry for tweens. Super Cute, with a fun-loving personality that makes guys want to be with her & girls just want to be her.

The reason for this VIP Concert in Hollywood you ask? Well there is a new campaign, out there called "Don't Fret The Sweat" have you heard of it? It's an online destination place for you to gather facts, get expert advice & find a solution to the physical changes that every tween / teen is faced with. You know, like growth spurts and more stinky stuff like new body odors, etc. They also have a pretty sweet FACEBOOK page that you can like, and it will play matchmaker between your teen & their deodrant.

I went to the site & learned a few things myself... Did you know that sweat doesn't smell at all? But once it gets mixed in with the bacteria that lives on our bodies, that what brings the funky smell? You can also find out what the difference is between a deodorant and an anti-perspirant. Fascinating Stuff people! They even have pamphlets that you can download, and offer suggestions on what product may be a great fit for the stinky child in your life. Ha! (PS: We use Degree over at our house - Just Sayin!)

If you'd like to see more photos that I took from the concert please go to my FLICKR PAGE.

Special Thank You to Caitlyn for hooking us up with tickets. It was such a fun family fun event. My daughter is still talking about how Victoria Justice talked to her for like a minute at the Meet & Greet. Those kids were all very sweet which was very refreshing. iParty With Victorious!

If you want to see the concert it should be up in the next few months over at WALMART SOUNDCHECK. Look for me!

(Full Disclosure: I was not paid or compensated in any way for this post. I was invited to the show. But it was free to the general public. The original thoughts expressed on this blog are 100% mine and 100% fresh.)

Disneyland's Summer Line-Up

2011-06-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

It's going to be a Soundsational Summer at the Disneyland Resort taking place from June 3-Sept 5! (THAT'S TOMORROW PEOPLE!) So mark it down in your Calendars, I know we have some plans to visit the Parks in the next few months. The Resort is extra fun during the summertime. Our Disney Annual Passes (So Cal) get blacked out soon. But if we want to buy a discounted blockout day ticket, they are $50 per person. Of'course there is always the possibility of upgrading our passes.... Hmmmm!

Disneyland has officially kicked off their new main street show, Mickey's Soundsational Parade including a new drumline, new colorful floats, and some of my favorite characters including Rapunzel, Mary Poppins, Princess Tiana, and Ariel.

And speaking of Ariel, we have all been waiting for the Little Mermaid ride to be finished and the time is finally here. Introducing the coolest thing to happen to California Adventure, since the WORLD OF COLOR. Ariel's Undersea Adventure opens June 3, and I can't wait to get on.

When they shut down Mulholland Madness, my daughter was really bummed, because it one one of her favorite rides in California Adventure. But I knew something bigger and better was coming our way. This summer Goofy will be teaching all of us how to fly. I'm really looking forward to seeing how my daughter feels about this new ride! Looks pretty Goofy, if you ask me.

Star Tours is back for the next generation with a new adventure. Can't wait to see what it's like to travel to another galaxy and back all in the matter of a few minutes. I know my husband is looking forward to this Star Wars inspired ride.

If you still have yet to see the show World of Color... You are missing out! We've seen it a number of times & it still is breathtaking! Plus now they've added new stuff for Pirates of the Caribbean with the mermaids and scenes from Tangled! Yay!

And who could forget about the nighttime party - ElecTRONica, which is still going on at California Adventure. It's not summertime until you have a glowing drink at the parks! Cheers!

He's Bringing Awesome Back

2011-05-31T21:03:00.000-07:00

Recently some local LA Mom Bloggers and myself were invited by Dreamworks Animation to watch Kung Fu Panda 2, and experience the Year of Awesomeness. We sat in one of the fancy screening rooms, with comfy reclining chairs, which was very awesome. Then we were introduced to the editor, Clare Knight (a lot of women werewho talked about her wonderful experience working on this film. Also a fun fact, was that her child voice is that of baby Po. Absolutely Adorable!

Let me say the movie is really good. A great sequel to the first one, which can be a hard task to pull off. I was really bummed that my husband and teenagers were unable to make it, because they all would've liked it. My 3 year old sat through the whole thing without even taking a potty break. I thought the storyline was excellent, the way they explained how Po (the Panda) came to be raised by his Dad, Mr. Ping. (the Goose) There are a lot of flashbacks of baby Po. (Which was one of my daughter's favorite parts - She kept talking about Po as a baby.) The Furious Five relationship with Po have gotten closer since we last left them. They are a true team now. Jack Black (Po) is as funny as ever. Tigress (Angelina Jolie) has a bigger role.

Image Courtesy of Dreamworks Animation
We also are introduced to a new villian, Lord Shen (Gary Oldman) and boy is he mean. He wants to take over China, and defeat the Furious Five (6, including Po) and he's got the weapon to do it. Lord Shen also has a hand in Po's past and knows what really happened to our main characters biological parents. The downside of this movie, is that it is darker than the first. Which was fine for my 3 year old, but I did hear another little girl cry in the theater. (I think out of fear) So be thoughtful of how your own child reacts to things. (It's rated PG for mild violence) And know that some scenes and characters may be scary to the younger viewers. The overall theme of the movie was a very positive message. It dealt with losing your parents (a typical theme with animated movies - for some strange reason) adoption, looking beyond differences and acceptance. The basic theme that I took away from the film was It doesn't matter what happened in your past, who you are now is what's important and you can create your own destiny. The last exciting part of the movie is the end leaves you with a sense that a sequel may be coming. Actually I'm 99% sure that a Kung Fu Panda 3 is in the works. Yay!

Next we were treated to a delicious lunch, and our children were treated to a Toy Demo. Mattel was nice enough to bring out all of their newest line of toys, all inspired from the film. And they had it all! Kung Fu Wrestler Po, Baby Po, Posable Po, Smack Talking Po, Little Po, Big Po. (Not to be confused with Big Poo) No matter who your child's favorite character is or what age, Mattel has got you covered. From Tigress to Monkey to the evil Lord Shen. (BwaHaHa)

They even had collectible Trading Cards, which were one of my favorites. But the overall favorite toy, the one that the kids were literally fighting over (I know, because my daughter was one of them) was the "Golden Cannon." (As pictures above - Looks like a Gold Chinese Dragon) Yes, leave it to the weapon of mass destruction to get the kids all in a frenzy. The coolest part about it was that it launches these little torpedo pieces. (Sound effects provided by your own child) The other winning toy was the Kung Fu Po Wrestler. It's a large plush animal Po. He talks, says his little funny phrases that only Jack Black would. It's the perfect partner to teach your little one Kung Fu, and then soft enough to cuddle with them in bed at night. (Available now at your toy stores everywhere)

Finally before the event came to an end, we were taken on a tour of the palace, I mean place. I must admit I was giddy about this part of the day. I mean c'mon, Dreamworks is the studio who created animated films like How to Train Your Dragon, Madagascar and Shrek. I kept hoping I'd run into Marty, Melman, Gloria or Alex... but no luck! They were probably hiding out in the lush gardens.

I also figured out the secret to DreamWorks Animation's success. It's because the artists work at heaven on earth. Well actually they work in Glendale, but the campus that the animators work on is pretty perfect. (Now I know why they were voted one of Fortune's 2011 Top Ten companies to work for.) They even call it a campus, which is exactly what it reminded me of. An ultra chic college, but with a hotel resort in the middle of it all. Yes, it was that nice. The architecture is old style mediterranean full of arches and towers, all surrounded by lush trees. The flowers seemed just a little bit brighter and more colorful there. They had a commissary where the employees eat breakfast and lunch for FREE everyday. And it had it's own dessert station. They have ponds with coy fish, a lagoon, and a large water fountain. They play ping pong at lunch. Some even work out with a personal trainer during breaks. They were doing all of these activities while we were there. I also found out that they offer their employees classes like drawing, painting and voiceover technique. Isn't that FABULOUS? And is anyone else as terribly jealous as I am?

Well in case you couldn't tell it was a wonderful day. I am so thankful that my daughter and I got the opportunity to experience Dreamworks in such a candid way. (Special Thanks to Kelley and Kim)

Here are some Printable activities and fun things to download that you can do with your children, to get into the Crafty Kung Fu Panda spirit. Full of 3D Characters to make, BookMarks, Games, Pencil Toppers, Etc.

Make sure to look for Dreamworks Animation's next movie coming out this fall, Puss in Boots.

If you'd like follow Dreamworks on TWITTER and check out KFP2's FACEBOOK and YOUTUBE.

*Full Disclosure: I was not paid or compensated for this post. I was invited to the screening of Kung Fu Panda 2, and given some toys to help facilitate my review. The opinions here are my own, and not influenced in any way by my crush on a giant panda bear named Po.*

Flashback Friday: A SlideShow

2011-05-20T08:57:00.000-07:00

I made this Slideshow of Kaia a few years back when I had (& used) a Myspace Page.

(Remember Myspace) Before Facebook, before Twitter, before I was really into blogging.

I just came across it the other day & fell in love all over again. These photos are some of my favorite of her at that age. (8-10 months)

Where has the time gone? Really. It's F.L.Y.I.N.G by...

You can make your own slide show over at SLIDE.COM.

It's fun & super easy. And as you can see... totally adorable!

So Fresh and So Clean

2011-05-17T19:54:00.000-07:00

Fresh out of the bath. Nice and relaxed. All warm and cozy.

Wrapped up in a towel like my little burrito baby.

Serious. Shy. Studying. Silly. Sad. Smiling.

From Zero to Sixty in in 6 seconds flat... in 6 photos.

She's definitely a female, all the way!

Mother's Day Weekend Recap

2011-05-10T16:39:00.000-07:00

We had a really nice Mother's Day Weekend together. When I told Kaia it was Mother's Day, she just kept calling it "Special Holiday Day." What a smart girl. There is nothing more special than a Mom.
I hope that all of you Mother's had the best Special Holiday Day ever.
You deserve it!

We went to a Birthday Party.

We went out to eat (a few times) and enjoyed an ice cream sundae.

Went to our Friends house for the Fight Night. (I wish Sugar Shane would've won) And I got to hang with some of my very BEST Girlfriends!!!

We took a walk & Kaia picked me a bouquet.

(Why she insisted on wearing her dad's shirt, is beyond me - But who am I to try & hinder her fashion, style & creativity...)

I definitely got some quality time in with my little girl. The one who made me into a mother 3 years ago. The one who I will forever be grateful for. The one who I love to the moon and back.

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T09:43:00.000-07:00

Here's to you Mom.

For giving me the gift of life.

For loving me greater than anyone on the planet.

For allowing me to be who I am.

For being my biggest fan.

For always being there.

For being just right.

Thank you.

I love you.

Happy Mother's Day.

(PS: I celebrate you everyday.)

Dreaming of SeaWorld

2011-05-03T08:58:00.000-07:00

As spring break comes to a close, I'm already thinking about places I'd like to take the family on Memorial Day. Last year on the holiday weekend, we were invited to SeaWorld San Diego to experience the newest show Blue Horizons. We had such a great time, that the kids are still talking about it. Which is saying a lot, because they are teenagers and they are VERY hard to impress.

As you all know I follow the SeaWorld Parks's Blog. (I have the link on my most read blogs list down to your right) So when I saw that they are giving the Shamu Show (my favorite show of the park) a makeover, debuting in SoCal on Memorial Day weekend, I decided exactly where I want to be this year.

Here's a little bit about the new show.

It called ONE OCEAN, it's replacing the current show BELIEVE. But the new twist, (an educational message) and hope from SeaWorld is that this show inspires us as viewers to make a difference in this world. Jim Atchison, president and chief executive officer of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment says "One Ocean" brings to life SeaWorld's mission in a powerful way. By educating & inspiring you to celebrate, connect and care for the world we share." I am also looking forward to seeing the new ways in which trainers interact with these magnificent and beautiful creatures. As we all know they've had some really tough times lately.

Here are some photos that I took last year of the Shamu Show Believe, the last shot is of the night time spectacular Shamu Rocks... I cannot wait to go back and "SEA" all of the new things they have going on!

For more information you can follow SeaWorld Parks on TWITTER, & like them on FACEBOOK.

*Disclaimer: I was not paid, nor compensated in any way for this post. I love SeaWorld & these opinions are all my own. For use of any of my photographs, as always, please contact me.*

Sweetly Colored

2011-04-25T21:08:00.000-07:00

This is about as colorful as it gets... That's why its's just PERFECT for The Paper Mama's Photo Challenge this week: "MULTICOLORED."

What do you think?

Hoppy Easter

2011-04-24T09:00:00.000-07:00

Spring Greetings

2011-04-23T10:00:00.000-07:00

Easters of the Past

2011-04-22T20:14:00.000-07:00

Egg Dyeing 101

2011-04-21T18:44:00.000-07:00

Every year we get together at my GRANDMA'S HOUSE, (Kaia's Great Grandmother) and do the traditional Easter activities. EASTER EGG HUNTS and Dyeing the Eggs are my very favorite things, and now that the girl is old enough... She is TOTALLY loving it. And I am totally loving being able to do all of these things with her. These are the moments that even if she doesn't remember forever, I know I will. Forever and Ever and Ever.

Mommy Self Portrait

2011-04-21T17:00:00.000-07:00

It's not pretty. It's not even cute. It's not my best side.

But I am totally happy with it. Because it shows exactly what I look like as a Mommy. After she's dressed me up, as a fairy pirate. With my patch, and my lei. Trying to make her laugh. Playing the part. Being Silly. Arghhhh! Where's me treasure???

Isn't it wonderful being somebody's Mommy?

SELF PORTRAIT

Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-20T15:53:00.000-07:00

Happy Wordless Wednesday!

Our week in iPhone Photos

2011-04-18T19:28:00.000-07:00

Here's what my week was lookin' like... (As told by the photographs taken with my iPhone)

HOW'D YOURS LOOK?

I'm totally getting into these weekly meet ups & greet ups. They are really fun. If you go to Amy's Blog, A GOOD LIFE you can get the super deluxe code that will link all of the other Mom Bloggers up too! It's a cozy group with just enough bloggers to be fun, but not too many to be overwhelming.

Flashback Friday: Green Blanket

2011-04-15T14:40:00.000-07:00

It's the end of the week again peeps... And time for Flashback Friday at Fresh Angeles.

Look at my little Cover Girl at 5 months old. Doing her boudoir photos... lol.

Wrapped in a green ELLABALOU Blanket given to us by Kerri-Lynne.

Check out her hair too, (bottom right) it's like channeling Elvis!

Ultimate Blog Party Winner

2011-04-12T16:39:00.000-07:00

OMG you guys, I am totally psyched!!!!

Not only did I have the BEST time over at 5 Minutes For Mom's Ultimate Blog Party.

It was my first year and I met a lot of really great people, who happen to be bloggers!

But I also won something! WINNING!

DRUM ROLL PLEASE.....

I won the freakin' GRAND PRIZE!

(See my twitter handle listed by the Grand Prize below - @jessicafuselier )

Yes, that's me! I won Melissa And Doug's Deluxe Kitchen Play Center. (Retails for $249.99 - Whoa)

Can you believe it??? I can't! I am still in shock. When Kaia (my 3 year old) sees this thing she is gonna go BANANAS! Then she can go and make Banana Bread in her new KITCHEN! Ha-Ha!

I am so grateful to JANICE, SUSAN & all of the people who helped put this event together. It was one of the most fun events I've participated in, in the blogosphere! (And I didn't even go anywhere)

I'm so excited I think I should go and have a DRINK! (the signature cocktail of the #UBP11 ofcourse)

Some of the other cool bloggers who were at this year's party:

Some of my new followers from the party: (THANKS!)

I hope you all had as much fun as I did. See ya next year!!! XO, Jessica

My Week of iPhoneography

2011-04-12T13:35:00.000-07:00

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday... DOG SITTING

Thursday, Friday... RANDOM BEAUTY

Saturday... AT THE MALL

Sunday... QUALITY TIME W/ SISTERS

Black And White

2011-04-11T18:55:00.000-07:00

Flashback Friday: Sunglasses

2011-04-08T10:09:00.000-07:00

Here's some photos of my little Fashionista. Circa April 2008. Age 8 months old. To.Die.For

I love my FEET

2011-04-07T21:25:00.000-07:00

Hey Y'all. It's my first time spending a Thursday over at AWKWARD AND AWESOME. But I'm sure it won't be my last. (Although I think I just read that THE DAYBOOK may no longer be doing this, but oh well) I found out about this through Anna's Blog JUST ME. (Thanks Girl!)

So I thought I'd talk about something that is Awesome. With a side of Awkward.
My feet and the strangers who love them.
Awesome:
I think my feet are kind of awesome. I like my feet. I like to take pictures of my feet. A LOT. Call me a weirdo, if you must. (*I only like my feet when they are pedicured & pretty, not when they are all tore up - BTW) I like my long toes. And the shape of my toe nails. I like the way my foot looks with a toe ring on. I even have a beauty mark on my right foot. (Fancy word for mole) Even though I have big feet (size 10) I think they look really good on camera. I have this fantasy of becoming a foot model someday...
Awkward:
Now here comes the Awkward part. I have uploaded these here photos onto my FLICKR account, like I do with so much of my photography. And some of these shots have gotten a lot of looks 15,000ish or so. But the people who are looking, aren't your typical peeps. They are foot fetisher... Ahhh Awkward. I get these "more normal" comments like, "You have Perfect Feet" to the truly awkward comments, "Your feet are mesmerizing me, somebody slap me" & "your feet take my breath away" & "Those are the sexiest feet/toes/pedicure I ever saw... you are a Goddess can we see more?" & finally the classic "I would have fun giving you a foot massage." Awwwkward much or anything!!!! lol.

Wanna see why they call me a "Goddess?" Check these babies out...

Don't you wanna give me a foot massage now too?

Wordless Wednesday: Cupcakes

2011-04-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

It was my Birthday this past Sunday. My husband was working, (FAIL) so I thought I'd take my girl over to Grandmas house & make cupcakes, one of her very favorite things to do.

Here is Kaia & her G.G. (Great Grandmother) making cupcakes for Mama's Birthday!

Happy Wordless Wednesday!

MNO: Happy Birthday To Me

2011-04-05T17:33:00.000-07:00

About every other week or so, my 2 girlfriends and I try & get together to get a little "US" time.

We call it our Mommies Night Out. We all used to live in the same condo. We all have daughters about the same age. They are all little mixed chicks. And our husbands are all friends as well. (They do Daddies Night out. - Biters)

(Yes we are the poster children for the United Colors of Benetton Ad)

This past week was no different. Except this time we had cake... cheesecake! Ooh, and Margaritas! For my Birthday... Hooray! I am very grateful to have such caring people my life. We support each other thru all of life's challenges & toast to all of life's successes. I'm glad that we have continued going out as often as we do. Because when life gets crazy busy (when is it not) as a wife, mother, and woman we need to make time for ourselves. Thanks Ladies! You rock my world!

Do It... Grab Your Best Girlfriend(s)... Go Out Tonight... You'll be so glad you did...

I Like to Party: Ultimate Blog Party 2011

2011-04-04T18:08:00.000-07:00

I like to Party as much as any other person!

Come on in & have a cupcake...

What's Happening Hot Stuff?

My name is Jessica New.

(My married name is Jessica Fuselier, but I've yet to change my name "officially.") (I'm lame)

I'm in my early 30's. I live in Los Angeles, and I love it!

I work in the Entertainment Industry. Which I also love.

But I also like to get my photography & blog on.

I'm married to a hunk. He's a graphic designer & pretty awesome dude.

We've been together since I was 21 years old. He turned me into a stepmom of 3.

Then we had a child of our own, who is 50% insane & 100% amazing!

Our kids are mixed, good people & pretty easy on the eyes. (I think all mixed kids are lookers.)

I am the younger sister to TRACEY CLARK of SHUTTER SISTERS.

She is the one who got me into blogging & photography. (Thanks TJ)

I am also the younger sister to BECKY SILKE the MOUSEKETEER MOM.

She & I share a love for Disney that is untouchable. (Disney Sisters 4-Eva)

My sisters are my very Best Friends in the world.

My site is mostly about our daily LA life, mixed in with my love for Disneyland.

I hope to meet even more cool bloggers then I already have.

So that's the main reason I'm joining the UBP!

I'm happy to follow you back if you follow me. Just give me a holler! (Holla)

Thanks again for stopping by... See you at the Party!!!

My 1st Mom Blog Monday - Booyah

2011-04-04T14:45:00.000-07:00

It's Monday... And I'm a Mom. Who happens to have a Blog.

What better reason for me to link up for the Mom Blog Monday Blog Hop

over at Sippy Cups & Cloth Bums.

Hi Buddy. It's nice to meet ya! My name's Jessica. I turned 34 yesterday. (Ouch)

I have a husband. 3 Stepkids. 1 bio kid. And a Chihuahua. (A Fab Family)
Oh & I'm a DISNEY Freak. (Does that make me Creepy?)

I'm so honored to have you. Let's follow each other & be virtual friends. I've made a lot of quality connections online & there's nothing I like more than supporting woman, mamas & bloggers in their lives!

PS: Special thanks to Here Comes The Sun for introducing me to this Monday Funday thing to do.

Flashback Friday: At The Park

2011-04-01T15:37:00.000-07:00

I'm gonna try something new. I'd like to introduce Flashback Fridays to Fresh Angeles.

On Fridays I will be posting photos from the past. My childhood, my pre-baby days & Kaia's baby pictures. You know, the old school stuff. (Logo, Banners & Buttons to follow)

Since I didn't blog that much when Kaia was a baby, (I was in a mommy fog to say the least) I missed out on posting some cute photos of my girl. So I thought I'd make my first Flashback Friday when she was almost a year old. Just a day in the park. Oh how I miss that little face. And that little body. And that little voice. And that little smile. Sigh...

I hope you will play along... It's gonna be fun, and full of old memories. Awesomeness.

The Grass is Greener

2011-03-31T18:58:00.000-07:00

For those of you who look at other's peoples' lives and think the Grass Is Greener...

Target And Easter

2011-03-31T10:00:00.000-07:00

We love Target. We shop there at least once a week. But it's usually more like 3-4 times. It's one of the places in this town that is open past 10pm. Our local store is open til 11pm, Thank God! And you know how my child doesn't sleep and all. So after the mall closes, if Kaia is still wide awake (happens more often than not) we hop on over to Target, and do some shopping, playing, browsing, hanging out.

My daughter loves the place with the big bullseye, almost as much as me. Except during any holiday season, then she loves it more then me. She is really getting into doing some shopping of her own. She likes to tell me what to put in the cart, what to take out of the cart, etc.

She was having a blast the other night. She picked out her own Easter basket. Then she proceeded to fill the basket with all sorts of different candy and toys that appealed to her. Let me say, she picked quite a nice selection. But that wasn't all, according to her all of the bunnies and duckies were "hungry" and she was just the one to feed them. She lined them up, (her fav thing to do) and gave each of them their own easter treat. And I think they were happy...

Wordless Wednesday: Family

2011-03-30T13:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Wordless Wednesday!

Here's a collage I made of the family... Just being us!

All Tangled Up

2011-03-29T19:02:00.000-07:00

This weekend we got our Disney fix by attending a SPECIAL EVENT that The Disney Store put on. It was all about Rapunzel, because the new movie Tangled comes out on DVD today! In case you were wondering we pre-ordered our copy and got free lithographs and a bag. Whoo-Hoo!

They had stations set up all over the store, with different activities for the little ones to partake in. They each got a sun flag that would be filled up with stickers after they completed each activity. The first up was coloring a Rapunzel sheet and finding Pascal on a page.

The next area had a whole Tangled Memory Game, that each child got to play. Pick a pair of the characters from the movie, and once they made a match, or two they got another sticker. Kaia just kept picking up different cards & handing them to the worker, who played along beautifully.

The last station had the Wanted sign of Flynn Rider, where the kids got to play soft darts trying to hit him in the nose, and then they received their last sticker. (Looks like they finally got his nose right!)

When they filled their Sunshine Flag up, they then went to the last station, where they were handed a personalized Certificate (see below). The Disney Store worker stood up on a ladder announcing "Ladies and Gentleman please join me in welcoming Princess Kaia into the Royal Tangled Court..." or something of that nature. And then everyone clapped... Yay!

Let me just say how happy my daughter felt at that moment. She had such a look of pride on her face, because she completed all of her tasks and got a reward. Disney knows how to make a kid feel special. She liked it so much in fact, that she wanted to go do all of the steps again.

And you know what... They let her!

I'd like to thank all of the Disney Employees at the at the store in Sherman Oaks Westfield Mall.

They were very patient and kind with my daughter and all of the kids, the day was a big hit. It was a lot of fun, we're looking forward to the next one -
Minnie's Masquerade Party on 4/8 & 4/9.

If I may quote Rapunzel on behalf of my daughter, "BEST DAY EVER."

Wordless Wednesday: Close Up

2011-03-23T12:21:00.000-07:00

Happy Wordless Wednesday!

During the week, I don't get to spend much time with my girl. As a full time working mom (in the entertainment industry) I leave early and come home late. So during the weekends I love spending my time just being with her. Sitting next to her on the couch, talking, laughing, playing. I grab my camera & try to take as many shots as possible, and for me the closer the better. Kids grow up so fast and every time I turn around, she looks a little more like a kid, and a little less like a baby. It's definitely bittersweet, but everything as a parent seems to be...

Going Green: Plant a Row for the Hungry

2011-03-17T18:35:00.000-07:00

Today we're going GREEN in honor of the holiday!

My stepmom has always liked to garden. In the city where she lives now, he shares a space of land with some neighbors in her community. They are all a part of this campaign called Plant A Row for the Hungry. They grow their own produce in their gardens, keep some and give away the rest.

It was started to "encourage gardeners to grow a little extra and donate the produce to local soup kitchens and food pantries serving the homeless and hungry in their local communities"

by the Garden Writer's Association.

Recently we all went as a family to tend to the garden. It was definitely a highlight for me. Spending time with one another, while giving back was a really good feeling. Not to mention the kids loved it!

My girl served as the head of the hose aka "The Water Queen." It was three generations working together for others. I am proud of my parents for doing something so selfless. And I'm thankful to them for letting us participate.

If you have a GREEN Thumb, or know someone who does, please let them know about this invaluable program, where they can "Harvest Hope" for the hungry.

Wordless Wednesday: Surprise

2011-03-16T16:38:00.000-07:00

You never know what you're going to find, when you have kids.
Random things in random places...
When I found this surprise, I couldn't help but to smile.

Happy Wordless Wednesday!

I hope your week is filled with the kind of surprises that make you smile too.

The Luck 'O' The Mouse

2011-03-14T22:24:00.000-07:00

Top of the morning to ya!

St. Patrick's Day is right around the corner...

Let Disney Family help to get you & your little ones in a festive type mood with these fun holiday crafts.

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with your favorite Disney Character - Mickey Mouse.

Make these as gifts or decorations for your home.

Here's a Candy Box that you can create.

For an extra sweet treat, add chocolate gold coins or a rainbow of Skittles or M&Ms.

This Mickey Mouse with his Pot 'O' Gold would make a fun table centerpiece, or even something that an adult could put on their desk at work.

Print out this Coloring Page for your kids & pass the sheets out at school. (with the teacher's permission of'course)

Don't be caught without wearing green this Thursday. (OUCH!)

Make this Leprechaun Hat with Mickey Ears for your little Leprechaun. (My Favorite)

Make a bouquet of Shamrocks for a loved one, like a grandparent or neighbor.

Add them to flowers or a plant, it promises to bring Good Luck to anyone who receives it.

Cutest.Dog.Ever

2011-03-12T00:16:00.000-08:00

Rock Star: i heart faces

2011-02-22T18:52:00.000-08:00

i heart faces : Phone Photo Challenge

"ROCK STAR"

taken with my iPhone camera using the hipstamatic app.

Happy Valentine's Day 2011

2011-02-14T11:58:00.000-08:00

California Adventure turns 10!

2011-02-08T22:00:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE!

You've brought us a lot of JOY in the last few years.
You've even become a Family FAVORITE.
At times you've made us made us GLOW , DANCE & GET FESTIVE.
Having you in our lives has been a real TREAT.
You could even say, you've shown us a whole new WORLD OF COLOR.
You are the Best Wingman, DISNEYLAND could have wished for.
And to us, you're every bit as MAGICAL.

Thanks for the MEMORIES, it's been one heck of an ADVENTURE.

Love,

Jessica, Becky & Tracey

"The Disney Sisters"

PS: And a very merry unbirthday to DISNEYLAND!

Just Checking In

2011-01-15T16:39:00.000-08:00

Hey Fresh Peeps,

I did not fallen off the face of the earth! I promise.
I haven't made any time to blog lately. I miss all of you terribly!
I just started Production on a job & I'm full-on busy. 12 Hour Days & All.
Can't wait to share all of the details.
But for now, we're shooting a pilot for Lifetime Television.
That's all I can say. (Non-Disclosure contracts are signed.)

More to come... Stay Tuned!!!

All My Love,
Jessica

Mean while, make sure to join my facebook (Jessica New)
And twitter: @jesicafuselier

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Disneyland during the Holidays

2010-12-23T18:41:00.000-08:00

There is nothing more magical then HOLIDAYS time at DISNEYLAND. We have made a family tradition of visiting Disneyland every year during CHRISTMAS. My sisters & I bring our families together and celebrate at the Resort. We can't wait to see how they have decorated the place, the new things they've added. There are always some favorites that stay the same, like how the Haunted Mansion becomes Haunted Mansion Holiday with Jack Skellington. But they also change things up a bit, like how Sleeping Beauty's Castle is decorated. And the best part is the Believe in Holiday Magic Fireworks Show that ends with an emotional rendition of the song of White Christmas and "Snow" Falling all down Main Street.

They really have so much to offer this time of year that it's hard to do and see it all in one day. There is also plenty of festive things going on over at CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE, not to be missed. You should set aside a few hours, or another day (if possible) to see that. If you plan on attending Disneyland over this Holiday Season, here are some highlights that you won't want to miss:

IT'S A SMALL WORLD HOLIDAY

A CHRISTMAS FANTASY PARADE

SANTA'S REINDEER ROUND-UP

THE GRAND CALIFORNIAN, A DISNEY RESORT

You can see the Resort, transformed into the Winter Wonderland now until January 2nd, 2011. I'm sure we'll be there again once more before it's over, I'm addicted.... See you at the Park!

We'll be sure to add these festive photos of our family memories to the new campaign of LET THE MEMORIES BEGIN Have you added yours yet?

Wishing you and your family Peace, Joy &

Disney Holiday Magic that lasts the entire year!

(*I was not paid or compensated for this post. I was given tickets to the park to experience the Holiday Magic. This post represents my own views. Ho Ho Ho!)

Wordless Wednesday: Gingerbread House

2010-12-15T19:04:00.001-08:00

Happy Wordless Wednesday!

Make It A Disney Holiday

2010-12-14T19:21:00.000-08:00

The Disney Holiday Blogger tour recently rolled into LA, and you know I was super excited to see this year's Holiday Gift Ideas from Disney. From DVDs to Video Games, they've even got a whole bunch of fun stuff to do with your family online.

I'm sure you are wondering how I made these awesome videos below, I shot them with my new FLIP HD VIDEO CAMERA which I absolutely LOVE! (I edited them in iMovie on my Mac.) If you don't have one of your own yet, I suggest you go out and get one. Along with my DSLR, this video camera goes everywhere with me. And it's so small, like my iPhone, I keep it in my back pocket. As a blogger, it is so helpful to make great HD quality videos about the events or products I am learning about. Vlogging is the wave of the future & with the MinoHD I am right there. But even more importantly, as a parent a video camera might be even more valuable than a camera. Still shots are good, don't get me wrong, but when you hear your babies voice on film, or see their personality on the screen, it's really amazing. (*Thanks Cisco for providing me with my Flip. You have made my Christmas complete.)

Happy Ho-Ho-Holidays!!!!!

The season of giving is here, but don't fear Disney is here to help make this season bright!

This year's Holiday lineup has so many things for all of the people on your list!

(why yes, that is a toy story napkin under my champagne glass, thanks for asking - ha!)

One of the most anticipated games of this year: EPIC MICKEY (and one that is on my husband & my list.) Disney's Epic Mickey is an action-adventure game for the Wii, "that sends Mickey Mouse on an epic journey of creativity and discovery. As Mickey, the player is propelled into Wasteland, an alternative world made up of Disney's forgotten creative efforts, and is given the power to wield paint and paint thinner to dynamically change the world while determining Mickey's path to become an epic hero."

But let's not forget some of the other "most wanted" Video Games, there are plenty... Disney Interactive has so many new things to share this year. I know I was excited to learn about all of the newest released games, for all different ages and interests, from teens to tots. Future Pop Stars to Cars fans... They got you covered Parents!

TANGLED, It's all about the hair!

DISNEY CHANNEL: ALL STAR PARTY

CARS: MATER'S TALL TALES

SING IT: Party Hits with some of todays hottest songs sung, by the artists & your kids!

The stockings were hung by the chimney with care... Filled with Disney Home Movies:

The toys are back in town, TOY STORY 3

A tale as old as time, BEAUTY and the BEAST

The Search for SANTA PAWS

FANTASIA and FANTASIA 2000

Disney's A CHRISTMAS CAROL

THE SORCERER'S APPRENTICE

Make any night a family movie night with these classic Disney movies! I know most of these are on my daughter's Christmas List this year! (and mine too) And the star of the night, actually wasn't Santa Claus, it was this little guy. We actually got to meet (& take a photo with) one of the SANTA PAWS puppies! It was SOOOO Cute! I wanted to take him home in my gift bag!

If what you want is ideas of things to do with your kids while they are out on Winter Break, Disney has that too! DISNEY FAMILY.COM and DISNEY FAMILY FUN.COM have all of the craft ideas. Learn how to make christmas ornaments, winter wreaths, homemade holiday gifts & wrapping paper. And for you Disney Lovers find out how to make a Woody Stocking, Mickey Mouse snowmen cards, or Ariel Starfish Santas. (just look at some of the cute things waiting to be made by your little ones this Christmas Vacation.)

They also have a whole lot of Prep & Landing crafts and recipes. The fun loving elves are BACK to help Santa with Christmas. You can catch Wayne and Lanny on TV Friday, December 24th 8/7c on ABC. We'll be watching! (post coming soon)

A very special Thank You goes out to Dana & Kirsten who worked very hard to bring us mom bloggers an amazing event, that was so fun & festive! Happy Holidays to you both, hope to see you soon!

(*Disclaimer - I was not paid or compensated for this post. The views expressed are my very own.*)

i Heart Faces: Pet Faces

2010-12-14T18:10:00.000-08:00

I took this photo of my friend's dog. His name is WALTER.

Every time he arrives at the vet's office, they give him a cookie. So that's exactly what he was doing here, politely waiting for the lady at the front desk to give him a treat. What a smart boy!

This week's challenge at I HEART FACES is Pet Faces.

California Gurlz

2010-12-08T20:24:00.000-08:00

Here's my daughter with some of her Best Friends.

They are California Gurlz FOR REAL... ha-ha!

HAPPY 3rd BIRTHDAY AVA!!!

We Love You!

I Heart Faces: Self Portrait

2010-12-06T19:31:00.000-08:00

Here's me, shot by Me...

Beanie, Beauty Mark, Wrinkles & All!

I thought that the inside of the lens & my wedding ring would look cool

as the only things highlighted in color.

It makes me laugh to think, this is what I look like to my family most of the time.

SELF PORTRAIT is this week's theme over at i heart faces.

Precious Time

2010-12-03T19:00:00.000-08:00

Remember when I said I was doing Big Thangs this December? Well one of those things is taking a Big Picture Scrap Booking Class. It's called Picture The Holidays and it is taught by my sister Tracey Clark. For those of you who don't know what that is, or aren't participating... She sends an email with a photo, a title, and a prompt every day for the entire month of December. Then you take a photo that expresses to you the meaning. Or as she much more eloquently puts it, "Picture the Holidays is a photo centric daily guide to creatively and mindfully celebrating the season."

Precious Time

(December 1: Holding Onto Gratitude)

I am grateful for time. Time in this wonderful world to spend with my family. Time to figure out my path, find my way. Time to learn that I Am Enough. Time to fulfill my dreams. Time to get it right.

Loss and Gain

2010-12-01T23:50:00.000-08:00

I have committed to 2 new projects on the web this month.
One with my photos, Picture The Holidays by Tracey Clark. (more about that later)
One with my words, Reverb10.

A little ambitious for the month with the biggest holiday of the year. Yes I agree, but when opportunities present (pun intended) themselves, especially ones that inspire creativity, we should atleast try.
Wish me luck and here we go!

Here's the info about #REVERB10 directly from the website:

"Reverb 10 is an annual event and online initiative to reflect on your year and manifest what’s next. The end of the year is an opportunity to reflect on what's happened, and to send out reverberations for the year ahead. With Reverb 10, we'll do both. This December we invite you to share your story and join us in reflection. Get the prompt, then Create a response to the prompt. In a post on your blog, through a tweet, with photography, or however else you desire."

2010: LOSS
The bad loss: Before you feel too bad for me, I didn't lose a loved one. Not a parent, child, sibling, or close friend. But what I lost this year was still very meaningful to myself and my family. And quite frankly it still hurt a bunch. It was our very first home, that my husband and I purchased a few years ago. It was a nice, new beautiful 3 bedroom condo. We moved into it right before I had my daughter, it's the only place that she has ever known. Well, the economy really hit us hard, like so many Americans the past few years. My husband hasn't had a job in 2 years, and my income decreased as well. And so our property was foreclosed on in March. I haven't written about it, because I'm still pretty upset about the whole thing. Upset, embarrassed, ashamed even. It's a difficult situation that so many people that I've talked to are facing. I know that when one door closes, another one opens... But I had a very hard time watching that door of our lovely condo close.

The good loss: (because losing isn't always a negative) I started on Weight Watchers on my birthday this year (in April) and I have since lost 30 pounds. It's been such a positive experience. The number one reason I wanted to lose weight was for my daughter. (I know we are supposed to do things for ourselves, but I say whatever the reason, so be it.) I was tired of not being in photos with her, because I didn't like the way I looked. Well now, I'm in a lot more photos and I will be for the rest of her life!

2011: GAIN
I would like for 2011 for myself, and my husband To GAIN financial stability. I'd like for us to gain our hope back, as it seems we have misplaced it being in this temporary setback for a lot longer then we had expected. I know they say that happiness is a state of mind, but it's hard to smile when you are drowning in bills.

*Side Note: I told my husband what today's prompt was, and asked him what One Word he'd use to describe 2010, and he said "SUCK" I thought it was kind of funny. Sad, but funny. Well atleast it made me laugh.

Week In iPhone Photos (11/18-11/21)

2010-11-22T19:32:00.000-08:00

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Holiday Tradition at Sheridan Gardens

2010-11-19T15:16:00.000-08:00

I grew up in Burbank, CA. It always had that small town feel to me, even though it's considered a part of LA County, and right next door to Hollywood. My mom and Grandma still live there, so we are there a lot. Sometimes just to hang out, and sometimes to go to the local Burbank events and activities. We have a bunch of traditions, and family things that we still do together every year. A number of those special things happen during the holidays.

One of the things we've enjoyed for as long as I can remember is going to SHERIDAN GARDENS for their annual Holiday Open House. Sheridan Gardens is a small nursery located on Hollywood Way, by the studios. It's filled with flowers, plants and gifts for most of the year. But when November comes around it turns into a winter wonderland. Seriously, this is what I picture Santa Claus' house to look like. Sometime around the first weekend in November they have a Holiday Open House. It's a great place to go and get in a festive mood. They serve cookies and warm apple cider and play christmas music. It's stunning to see how they decorate inside, and I look forward to it every year. My sisters usually drive up, and, schedules permitting, we all go together.

This year was the first year I brought my daughter with me to share in the Christmas spirit. She is three now, and I felt she would probably be able to act like a civilized human being. Hopefully not break anything, and allow me to enjoy myself too. If all else failed, I thought I could bribe her with cookies if need be. Well I'm happy to report she did fantastic, juts like I hoped. She loved it. She looked at every ornament, every light, every decoration was in awe, exactly like her mother. She even made a friend. They had a giant, life-sized reindeer that looked real. She fell in love and asked if we could take it home. I had to decline, but told her we could come back to visit him again. She did get a little frustrated with me when I told her she couldn't ride it though.

It was a magical night and a great way to put us all into the holiday mood. If you live anywhere locally in LA, you should definitely stop in and see these beautiful things. They have many one-of-a-kind items to give as gifts, vintage and old fashioned treasures. The people who work there are just lovely, it's a family owned business who cares about their customers. You might just make it a tradition in your family too.

Sheridan Gardens * 817 N. Hollywood Way * Burbank, CA 91505 * (818) 841-8845

Visit their WEBSITE

All of the photos in this post were taken with the Hipstamatic App on my iPhone. Oooh Christmasy!