Over The Top Mommy

Month: September 2015

Unplug Your Family and Get Outside With Guardian Bikes! #GuardianBikes

The opinions in this article are my own. I do not work for, or with, any brand mentioned in this article, nor do I have any official relationship with them.  I have a relationship with Gigasavvy, for whom I create original editorial content.

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I remember being outside all day on the weekend, when I was a kid, and riding my bike around until the streetlights came on! That’s how we knew it was time to go home! I don’t think people thought too much about safety back then. There definitely weren’t conscious efforts to wear bike helmets and be safe. As a mom, I’m the complete opposite! Safety comes first!

guardian-bikes-safety-firstWe were invited to spend a day out in the park with Guardian Bikes. I love getting the family uplugged and outside in the fresh air! If you haven’t heard of them before, it may be because Guardian Bikes is a brand new company based in Orange County. Their mission is to help children, from 4 to 12 years old , explore the world in motion with confidence and safety.

explore-the-worldThe company was founded with the intention of preventing the millions of biking accidents that happen to children each year. Their bicycles are the only children’s bikes to incorporate an innovative brake system technology, called SureStop, in addition to other features, to help keep kids safe.

As I mentioned, Guardian Bikes are the are only children’s bikes to incorporate SureStop’s version of a traditional V brake system. It works by applying brake force to the rims of each wheel when the one brake lever is squeezed.

guardian.july2015_prototypes.50The amount of brake pressure that is applied depends on the amount of rear traction. As the rear brake is applied, it communicates via cable with the brakes in front, effectively inducing all-wheel braking for improved stopping power. I just wish they had this when I was learning to ride a bike safely.

love-your-guardian-bikeGuardian Bikes believes that a kid’s bike not only be a design & style they love but also something they feel confident riding. I totally agree! Their bikes are designed in bold colors and patterns for both boys and girls.

guardian-bikes-girlIn addition to the SureStop braking system which prevents the front wheels from locking up, Guardian Bikes feature several other safety features including:

Easy Ride Geometry

  • Wheel base is extended and bottom bracket is lowered for overall lower center of gravity, making the bike harder to tip over and easier to ride 

Sturdier Steering

  • Steering components make it easier for kids to steer as they ride.

High Quality Components

  • Shimano shifting
  • Kendra Tires 
  • Double wall rims for durability 

But my most favorite feature about these bikes is the fact that they only weigh around 20 pounds! Yes, it’s true! Since they are mostly made of aluminum, Guardian Bikes are easier for a child to control and manipulate!

guardian-bikes-pedalGuardian Bikes will be available online and in specialty retail stores in the fall, at the end of September, and will be priced at $399. My daughter has already requested one from Santa! Honestly, why wouldn’t I want her on the safest bike out there, created for kids? Christmas can’t come soon enough!

Connect with Guardian Bikes on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

I’ve Got “The Inside Scoop” on Johnny Rockets’ Delicious Shakes! #ShakeMonth

The opinions in this article are my own. I do not work for, or with, any brand mentioned in this article, nor do I have any official relationship with them.  I have a relationship with Gigasavvy, for whom I create original editorial content.Johnny-rockets-facadeWith September being National Shake Month, Johnny Rockets decided to “shake it up” a bit by inviting a bunch of social influencers to their location inside Knott’s Berry Farm for a shakin’ good time and to get “the inside scoop” on their shakes! I love the family-friendly atmosphere at Johnny Rockets because it always seems like the staff has so much fun while they’re working! The crew assembled together to dance to “Car Wash” and really got everyone in the place up on their feet to join in.

workin-at-the-carwashAlthough we were there to sample some shakes, we were also treated to some of their delicious 100%  fresh all-natural beef burgers and grilled chicken breast sandwiches along with some of their signature sourdough onion rings and crispy, golden french fries!

johnny-rockets-burgers

johnny-rockets-onion-ringsThere’s something about the ketchup that makes it all taste extra yummy! I’m pretty sure it’s the signature ketchup smiley face served tableside, don’t you think?

Johnny-Rockets-ketchupIt was super fun to go back into the kitchen at Johnny Rockets for a shake making lesson! All of Johnny Rockets’ shakes are hand-dipped, & hand-spun and are made with the finest USDA certified premium vanilla ice cream, whole milk, quality ingredients and real whipped cream. I appreciate  that Johnny rockets is very conscious of food allergies and uses an entirely separate spindle for mixing shakes containing peanuts, to avoid cross contamination.

reeses-chocolate-peanut-butter-shakeWe all crowded around the prep area and first learned how to make their Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Shake! It’s almost automatic for you to lick your lips and say “Mmm!” when you hear the name of this shake!

back-in-the-kitchenThe shake is made with scoops of real vanilla ice cream, whole milk, chocolate syrup, and Reese’s peanut butter SAUCE (yep, that’s a real thing).

Johnny-rockets-reeses-shake-pourAfter the shake is poured into a glass, it’s topped with whipped cream and garnished with mini Reese’s pieces and a half Reese’s peanut butter cup on top! It’s literally so good that it would make E.T. come back! 

Johnny-Rockets-Reeses-Chocolate-Peanut-butter-shakeJohnny Rockets is offering their Reese’s Chocolate Peanut Butter Shake at select locations through November 21st!
goosebumps-shakeNext, we got a sneak peek (and taste) of Johnny Rockets’ newest shake, created in collaboration with Sony Pictures and the Goosebumps movie….the Goosebumps Shake!  The shake is made with scoops of real vanilla ice cream, whole milk, chocolate syrup, and Oreo crumbles!

mmm-gummy-wormsAfter it’s mixed and poured in a cup, it gets a generous portion of whipped cream, more Oreo crumbles, and is garnished with gummy worms! I LOVE gummy worms!

in-the-kitchen

the-goosebumps-shakeJohnny Rockets will offer the Goosebumps Shake beginning on September 21st at select locations. You’ll want to hurry into your closest location to try it because it’ll only be available for a limited time!

Thank-you-johnny-rocketsWe want to thank Johnny Rockets for inviting us to a fun afternoon out! You can find them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

 

{Giveaway} Hispanic Heritage Month and Don Roberto Jewelers! #HispanicHeritageMonth

The opinions in this article are my own. I do not work for, or with, any brand mentioned in this article, nor do I have any official relationship with them.  I have a relationship with Gigasavvy, for whom I create original editorial content.

Hispanic-Heritage-Month-and-Don-Roberto-Jewelers-FolkloricoDid you know that there are over 50 million Hispanic Americans living in the “melting pot” we know as the United States? Each year, Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 through October 15. as a way to recognize and highlight the contributions Hispanic Americans have made here in the U.S.. Celebratory traditions for Hispanic Heritage Month vary from city to city and state to state but you are sure to find many cultural festivals, parades, and gatherings, all honoring tradition.

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Hispanic Heritage Month is the perfect time to stop by your local Don Roberto Jewelers to shop for gifts. With such an extensive collection of trendy Hispanic Heritage Jewelry, you will definitely find something for everyone on your list. Their collection includes several beautiful pieces of jewelery. Although there are several fun things that I’d love to for myself, I can never resist cute gifts for children, so I’m going to share a few of my favorites from Don Roberto Jewelers with you.

Hispanic-Heritage-Month-Don-Roberto-Jewelers-Open-Heart-Diamond-EarringsI can’t resist a baby girl with her ears pierced! These delicate 14k white gold open heart earrings contain a diamond at their center, and feature matching 14k gold bell backs that screw on and are engineered for safety, ease of use, and loss prevention. The bell design is easy to grip, protects your child from the post, and prevents her from easily pulling them off. Don Roberto also offers ear piercing. For more details about ear piecing, click here.

Hispanic-Heritage-Month-Don-Roberto-Jewelers-Baby-BraceletThis stunning multi-link ID bracelet is unique with its engraved flower and single diamond center. The pin clasp will secure your baby’s bracelet while keeping her stylish. This bracelet is 5 inches in length and is intended for babies and toddlers with a maximum of a 5 inch circumference wrist.

If you’re looking for a sentimental gift for the birthday girl to wear on her special day, this ring is perfect!

Hispanic-Heritage-Month-Don-Roberto-Jewelers-RingModeled into a pretty scalloped heart and featuring the number 15 in the middle, this quinceañera ring is cast in 10k white gold and is perfect for accessorizing and commemorating her special day.

Hispanic-Heritage-Month-Don-Roberto-Jewelers-Heart-PendantThis gorgeous diamond-encrusted 10k yellow gold “15” heart pendant is a beautiful gift also for a birthday girl on her quinceañera.

Hispanic-Heritage-Month-Don-Roberto-Jewelers-RosaryThis rosary is a handcrafted heirloom design created to last for generations. Each bead is hand wired for strength and beauty. The medals dating between the 15th and 19th century are solid bronze hand cast designs, which in time age beautifully. Each rosary contains over 150 parts creating an unforgettable old world charm. the beads are genuine high quality silver fresh water pearls with aqua crystal accents. The centerpiece medal is a replica from the 1800’s (latin america) depicting Our Lady of Guadalupe (front) and the nativity scene with child Jesus (back). The crucifix depicts a rose at each end of the cross, which represents the divine love for our Blessed Mother Mary. Above the crucifix is a medal detailing the Holy Eucharist and the chalice. Attached to the rosary are medals detailing the prayerful hands of Our Lady of Guadalupe and small roses.

my-local-locationDuring Hispanic Heritage Month, I invite you to visit your local Don Roberto Jewelers to see all of these pieces and more, in person! My favorite location is in Orange but you can find a list of locations here.

discount-for-readersDon Roberto has provided me with an exclusive discount code good for 25% off your first online purchase. You can view their collection online by clicking here. This exclusive discount code was created especially for my Over the Top Mommy readers. Just enter the code “BP25FP” at checkout. This discount is only valid online.

Hispanic Heritage Month FB1 (2)Don Roberto Jewelers is currently hosting a giveaway during Hispanic Heritage Month on their Facebook page.  They want to recognize Latinos that have made a difference in the U.S. It’s really easy to enter and you could win a $50 gift certificate. For more details and to enter, click here.

enter-to-winDon Roberto Jewelers has also provided me with one $50 gift card to give away to one of my lucky readers! To enter my giveaway, all you need to do is comment on this blog post, telling me which item you like the best from this post or from their site! I will choose a winner on October 1st, so that means you need to enter by 11:59 p.m. on September 30! Good luck to everyone!

Connect with Don Roberto Jewelers on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Giveaway ends Sept 30, 2015 at 11:59 PM PST. Open to US Residents 18 and older only. Prizes cannot be shipped to PO Boxes. Winner will be selected at random and be notified by email. Winners have 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected. Not liable for unclaimed prizes or fulfillment. Blog has represented each sponsor with the expectation they will fulfill their prize and in a timely manner. No purchase necessary to enter or win; however you must enter for a chance to win. Purchase does not increase chance of winning. Chances of winning depend on number of entries. My opinions are my own and were not influenced by any form of compensation. Facebook, Twitter or any other social media platform are in no way associated with this giveaway. By providing your information in this form, you are providing your information to this blog. I do not share or sell information and will use any information only for the purpose of contacting the winner. 

McDonald’s FREE Breakfast for Kids on Tuesday, September 15!

free-mcdonalds-breakfast As a parent, I understand the importance of breakfast for my daughter, first hand and always make sure my daughter has something to eat before walking out the door to school. I’m also a teacher and see it from a different angle too. Children who eat breakfast perform better in the classroom and have better concentration and problem-solving skills. Sometimes, busy morning schedules don’t leave a lot of time for breakfast, which can be a challenge on some days.

mcdonalds-free-breakfastAs students settle into their first days of school, participating McDonald’s restaurants throughout Southern California are helping get their year off to a great start….with a FREE breakfast. On Tuesday, Sept. 15, participating Southern California McDonald’s restaurants will offer free breakfast to kindergarten through eighth grade students. The restaurants will offer the breakfast from 6:30-9:30 a.m. Students younger than 13 yrs. of age are required to be accompanied by an adult when visiting a participating McDonald’s restaurant.
During this time, students can enjoy any breakfast sandwich, apple slices or Yoplait Go-Gurt low-fat strawberry yogurt, and milk! So awesome!

thanks-mcdonalds

The 10th Annual Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch Opens Sept. 19th!

Disclosure: I was invited to attend a special media day at Irvine Park Railroad’s Pumpkin Patch. No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own. 

pumpkin-patch

Fall is upon us and that means it’s time for the Irvine Park Railroad’s Pumpkin Patch to open again! Located inside of Irvine Regional Park in the foothills of Orange, California, the Irvine Park Railroad’s Pumpkin Patch will open for the season beginning on September 19th at 10:00 a.m. Families are invited to visit the Pumpkin Patch through October 31st.

Irvine-Park-Railroad-Pumpkin-Patch-train-2015The Pumpkin Patch is located in Locomotive Loop and Miner’s Meadow just behind the train station, where thousands of pumpkins, in all shapes and sizes, will fill the meadow. You’ll be sure to find the perfect pumpkin!

Irvine-Park-Railroad-Pumpkin-Patch-pumpkins-2015

Irvine-Park-Railroad-Pumpkin-Patch-activities-2015

  • train rides
  • hay rides
  • panning for gold
  • a child-friendly haunted house
  • a hay maze
  • a moon bounce
  • pumpkin ring toss
  • carnival games
  • cookie decorating
  • John Deere tractor racers
  • face painting
  • picture stands

Irvine-Park-Railroad-Pumpkin-Patch-face-painting-2015The Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch is open daily from September 19th through October 31st. Hours  of operation are as follows:
Weekdays 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Weekends 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Irvine-Park-Railroad-Pumpkin-Patch-Hours-2015Admission into the Pumpkin Patch is free and prices for the activities vary. For additional information and pricing, click here. Irvine Park Railroad welcomes schools and groups. Please call (714) 997-3968 for school and group information.

Irvine-Park-Railroad-Pumpkin-Patch-cotton-candy-2015Don’t forget to visit Irvine Regional Park’s other activities while you’re there including the Wheel Fun Rentals® at Irvine Park, paddle boat rentals, the Orange County Zoo, and pony rides.

Irvine-Park-Railroad-Pumpkin-Patch-giveaway-2015

Irvine Park Railroad has generously given me a package of tickets to give away to one of my lucky readers. The package includes:

  • 4 Tickets (which can be used to ride the train OR participate in Pumpkin Patch activities)
  • 1 Wheel Fun Rentals at Irvine Park bike rental (excludes the double surrey)
  • 1 Wheel Fun Rentals at Irvine Park paddle boat rental

Enter in the Rafflecopter below. Good luck everyone and Happy Fall!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Visit Irvine Park Railroad on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

{Giveaway} Barbie “Rock N’ Royals” LIVE Show! Enter to Win a Gift Basket With Tickets to This Concert Experience!

Barbie-Rock-n-Royals

Who’s ready to rock? Barbie is starring in an all-new movie, Barbie Rock ‘n Royals! In this upbeat musical, Barbie stars as Princess Courtney, a modern princess whose world is turned upside down when she switches places with Erika, a famous rock star. Two very different worlds collide when a mix-up sends Princess Courtney to Camp Pop and Erika to Camp Royalty. The Barbie in Rock ‘n Royals DVD will be available at retailers nationwide on 9/8 from Universal Home Entertainment. But that’s not all of the exciting Barbie news…..

Mattel_BarbieRockNRoyals_Mock_072415_8_tcm718-116606Barbie fans in the Greater Los Angeles are invited to attend a LIVE concert on Saturday, September 26 at 12 p.m. at the Hollywood Palladium! The Barbie Rock ‘N Royals Concert Experience is going to be a rockin’ good time and Barbie fans will have the opportunity to “Raise Their Voice”!  Enjoy a LIVE concert performance of songs from the movie including, “Raise Our Voices,” “What if I Shine,” and “Brand New Song” from surprise guests!

Guests in attendance will also get to: 

  • Striking a pose on the Pink Carpet
  • Getting rock star ready in the Super Style Zone
  • Jamming out in the VH1 Rock Star Zone
  • Twisting and shaking in the Be Super Dance Zone

It’s going to be an event you won’t want to miss! For tickets to the Rock ‘N Royals Concert Experience, click here.  All ticket sales will benefit VH1 Save The Music.

enter-to-win-barbieI’m also giving away a Barbie Rock ‘N Royals gift basket to one of my lucky readers! Look at what’s in it!

  • Barbie™ in Rock ‘n Royals: Courtney® doll
  • Barbie™ in Rock ‘n Royals: Erika™ doll
  • Barbie in Rock ‘n Royals DVD
  • Two tickets to the Barbie Rock ‘n Royals Concert Experience on Sept. 26, 2015 at 12 p.m.

If you’d like to enter to win this basket, do so below in the Rafflecopter. Don’t forget to read the directions carefully for each entry. Good luck everyone!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

I received promotional items in order to facilitate this post. No monetary compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.

{Giveaway} Have Courage and Be Kind! #Cinderella Available on BLU-RAY™ Combo Pack, Digital HD and Disney Movies Anywhere on 9/15!

Cinderella2015_BlurayHave courage and be kind! That was my favorite line from Disney’s “Cinderella”! Oh I bawled my head off at the beginning of this film when I saw it in the theater! It was just so beautifully made and this timeless classic was brought to life with imagination and a whole lot of magic! If you haven’t already seen this latest version of “Cinderella”, here’s a synopsis:
Despite being mistreated by her stepmother (Cate Blanchett) and stepsisters, a spirited Ella (Lily James) resolves to take charge of her fate. Add a royal ball, a Fairy Godmother (Helena Bonham-Carter) and a glass slipper, and suddenly – magic becomes reality!

Lily James is Cinderella in Disney's live-action feature inspired by the classic fairy tale, CINDERELLA, which brings to life the timeless images in Disney's 1950 animated masterpiece as fully-realized characters in a visually-dazzlling spectacle for a whole new generation.

Here’s the trailer:

Cinderella will be released on Digital HD/SD*, Blu-ray Combo Pack & Disney Movies Anywhere on September 15! You can order your own copy here

The BONUS features on the Digital HD/SD*, Blu-ray Combo Pack & Disney Movies Anywhere (DMA):

A Fairy Tale Comes to Life- Filmmakers and cast reflect on Cinderella’s enduring power, and the joys and challenges of bringing this iconic tale to life.
Costume Test Fun- See the work of Academy Award-winning® Costume Designer Sandy Powell (The Aviator, 2004) and share some lighthearted moments with the cast.
Staging The Ball- You’re invited behind the scenes for the making of the Palace Ball sequence, including its spectacular set, stunning costumes and more. It’s a lavish and massive undertaking…and a magical day on set.
Ella’s Furry Friends- Discover how the movie’s animal stars honed their memorable performances.
Alternate Opening: Ella’s Childhood- View moments from Ella’s idyllic childhood that do not appear in the movie. With an introduction by Director Kenneth Branagh.
Frozen Fever-It’s Anna’s birthday, and Elsa and Kristoff are determined to give her the best celebration ever – but when Elsa catches a cold, her powers may put more than just the party at risk. Frozen-fever

The following are deleted scenes (with introduction by Kenneth Branagh) exclusive to the DMA:

  • Serving (0:56)
  • The Mourning (4:24)
  • Getting to Know You (2:00)
  • The Search for Cinderella (1:14)
  • Dear Kit (2:57)

DVD exclusives include these BONUS features:

  • Ella’s Furry Friends
  • Frozen Fever

Lily James is Cinderella and Richard Madden is the Prince in Disney's live-action feature inspired by the classic fairy tale, CINDERELLA, which brings to life the timeless images from Disney's 1950 animated masterpiece as fully-realized characters in a visually dazzling spectacle for a whole new generation.

You can order your own copy of Cinderella by clicking here. (pre-orders taken prior to September 15). I’m also having a giveaway that you can enter to win a copy of Cinderella. All you have to do is enter on the Rafflecopter below. Please read the instructions carefully. Good luck everyone!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Visit Cinderella on Facebook and follow on Twitter and Instagram!

All images and trailer property of Disney Movies.  This is not a sponsored post.