Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in san diego, CA

Camping and Marathons this Weekend

by Terese Farmen

August 13, 2009

Summer is almost over so it is time to take advantage of all the fun events coming up over the next two weeks before Labor Day weekend.

For example, on Aug. 15 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., you can head to 4700 Calle Montecito in Oceanside for the Libby Lake Community Fair. There will be rock climbing walls, jumpies for the kids and music dance groups and entertainment.

You can head to poway for free pedal boating, night hikes and family BBQs at the Poway Family Campout on Aug. 15 and 16 starting at 5 p.m. The event will be held at Lake Poway at 14644 Lake Poway Rd and the cost is $55 for Poway residents and $65 for non-residents and includes admission for up to 5 family members. Drinking alcohol is not permitted and families are encouraged to bring their own camping gear, grills and supplies.

The more athletically inclined might be interested in America's Finest City Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk and Festival on Aug. 16 in Balboa Park.

The Marathon begins at the Cabrillo National Monument across the Bay, into downtown and up to Balboa Park's Pan-American Plaza. The Run begins at the Pan Amercian Plaza with a loop course within the park back. The festival will be held on President's Way off of Park Blvd. For more information, visit www.afchalf.com.

Weekend Fun - Who Can Pick?

by Terese Farmen

August 06, 2009

The circus is coming into town this week and while the elephants and the bearded lady sound like the best hot spot in town for our preschool kids, there are so many cool events going on this weekend, I would have to insist on using a Star Trek method of travel to get to each and every one!

As I already mentioned the Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus will be held at the San Diego Sports Arena on Sports Arena Blvd. For more information, visit http://www.ringling.com/.

If you are into canines, check out the Dog Days of Summer on Aug. 8 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 131 Aberdeen Drive in Caridiff.

San Ysidro will be celebrating 100 years at a Parade and Festival on Aug. 8 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Larsen Field. Mexican Cowboys will be performing and there will be a Kids Zone and a big parade. Visit http://www.sanysidrobid.org/.

This weekend is the 4^th Annual fiesta del Sol which is very family multicultural event with dances, education about social justice. The event, located on Logan Ave between 26^th Street and the Coronado Bridge, is free to the public.

For some yummy food, folk dancing, cool costumes and martial arts performances, this weekend's Philippine Cultural Arts Festival is the place for you. The event will be held in Balboa Park near President's Way. For more information, visit http://www.samahanphilippinedance.com/.

Of course, this is also the weekend of the Hillcrest's City Fest on 5^th Ave from University Ave. all the way to Upas Street. There will be rides for the kids, music and lots of arts and crafts. The event is free to the public.

Lastly, you can head to Oceanside on Aug. 9 from noon to 6 p.m. to catch the Festival of Enlightenment. Vegetarian food, martial arts demonstrations, spirituality, eco-farming and a children's corner all await you. For more information, call (760) 839-6108.

N. County Fun for the Weekend

by Terese Farmen

July 30, 2009

If you can withstand the heat in northeast San Diego, be sure to get up to the Wild Animal Park to see the Dino Mountain exhibit which will only be around for another month. The exhibit is of robotic versions of dinosaurs in a "natural" environment and is a pretty cool show for the kiddies.

On Aug. 1, be sure to head to North County for the Overnight Family Campout in Walnut Grove Park in San Marcos. The event is $10 per person and includes a breakfast, hot dog dinner and of course, s'mores. There will a moonlight walk and an evening of campfire songs. For more information, visit their website at http://www.san-marcos.net/index.aspx?page=436.

Clairemont will also be celebrating Family Days on Aug. 1 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be free swimming at the pool and pony rides. The event is hosted at the South Clairemont Recreation Center at 3605 Clairemont Drive. The event is free for the family.

If you have any children who are fans of the Wizard of Oz or musical theater in general, the play "Wicked" will be hosted at the San Diego Civic Theater July 29 through August 30. Take note that children under the age of 4 will not be allowed to attend, so the show is definitely more geared to the older kids and recommended for age 8 and older. But if you have a child over 4 who loves Glinda the Good Witch, and get sit still for about 3 hours of entertainment, the play is just fantastic.

Comics and Icecream this Weekend

by Terese Farmen

July 23, 2009

Although the event itself is sold out, it is terribly fun to head down to the Convention Center anyways and check out the spectacle of the comic fan genre. This year's Comic Con will be held July 22 through July 26 at the San Diego Convention Center located at 111 W Harbor Drive. The event is so popular, don't be surprised to see multiple versions of Darth Vader, Wolverine, Spider Man, or characters of Anime walking around with backpacks and cameras. It is a ton of fun for the kids to watch the grown ups having a little fun.

Murrieta also sounds fun this Friday and Saturday for the Cowboy Jubilee Music Festival with entertainment and plenty of folks dressed up like cow boys. The event will be held in downtown Murietta at the Santa Rosa Ecological Reserve at 39400 Clinton Keith Rd.

If you live closer to the downtown area, you might check out the South Park Summer neighborhood Walkabout event at 30^th Street and Juniper. There will be food and entertainment and it is an opportunity for the neighborhood to draw visitors and show off their local business talent.

Balboa Park will be showing off turtles and tortoises on Saturday from 12-4 and on Sunday from 10-4 in the Turtle and Tortoise Show. They will teach folks about the difference between the two animals and share information about the turtles and tortoises in their possession.

For an event with music and ice cream, head to the Rancho Buena Vista Adobe for an annual Bluegrass and Ice cream Social on July 26 from 4-6 p.m. Admission is $10 to listen to the Virtual Strangers Band and includes the price of root beer float or sundae. The event will be hosted at 640 Alta Vista Drive in Vista.

A Rainbow Kind of Weekend

by Terese Farmen

July 16, 2009

Hopefully you had a chance to check out the BBQ flavored mealworm larvae from the Annual Insect Festival in Carlsbad last weekend, and are up for another great adventure.

If so, get your rainbow gear on and head to Hillcrest for the annual Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender parade and festival. Parade walkers always hand out free merchandise and children always benefit from this generosity (where else can you find a bright pink Gay and Lesbian Times Frisbee and matching HBO lip balm to go with it!) Anyhow, the parade is always high energy and exciting. Inside, the festival you can find the Children's Garden which has a Luau theme this year, including dance lessons!

If you don't get enough from the disco divas of Gay Pride, you might want to check out the Sameda Fair on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the McMillan Events Center and Dance Place at 2875 Dewey Road. There you will be able to enjoy Middle Eastern dancing, vendors, costume, accessories and live music. Check out  http://www.sdsameda.com/ for more information about event locations and performance times.

Grab some buckets and shovels and head out to Imperial Beach for the US Open Sandcastle Competition and Street Festival starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday. There is a "Kids N Kastles" completion Saturday afternoon and Sunday is the real completion. The professional castles will be viewable up until 4 p.m. on Sunday. (Sea Coast Dr, Imperial Beach).

Carnivals and Canines this Weekend

by Terese Farmen

July 09, 2009

June Gloom is finally over and summer time has graced its presence (as if we don't have sun year round and there is some excuse to complain!) It might be difficult to pick between the fun weekend activities and a nice relaxing day at the beach.

This weekend, your family can try to catch the Carnival at Memorial Park from 1-11 p.m. (2902 Marcy Ave.) off 30^th Street. Admission is super cheap at $1.50 per person and there are snack foods and lots of games and rides for the family.

If you happen to be across the bridge in Coronado, you can also catch a Carnival at the Robert Egger South Bay Recreation Center on 1885 Coronado Ave. Again, admission is $1.50 and the pre-school age children are free. There will be a big slide and lots of carnival activities for the family.

Spend your weekend with some canine companions at the Wags for Wishes event at Otay Ranch Town Center located at 2015 Olympic Parkway in Chula Vista. Proceeds will go to the Make A Wish foundation and who knows, you might find your new best friend at the adoption center. The event lasts through the weekend starting at 9 a.m. each morning.

As long as there aren't any bees free to roam about, I'm thinking about checking out the Annual Insect Festival up in North County, both weekend days from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Kids can collect bugs and eat flavored mealworm larva (ewww)  and there is no additional cost aside from entrance into the Quail Botanical Gardens located in Carlsbad, CA. Who could pass up a nice Larva Teriyaki!

4th of July Studs and Duds

by Terese Farmen

July 02, 2009

I suppose there is not a whole lot to talk about on the topic of "what to do this weekend in San Diego" since it is the Fourth of July. Many of us jet set out of town this time, winding our way over the Grapevine or through the laborious LA traffic or desert track if we are so inclined, to get away from the stream of tourists who equally clog our freeways. For those of us who enjoy the fresh faces and confused drivers and pedestrians, the Fourth can be a really fun holiday.

We have quite a few choices, really.

One of my favorites is catching the Fireworks at Sea World. Granted, you can catch this show during the summer months most every night, there's always just a little patriotic need to see this brilliant display of light on this particular date.

From the southernmost point of our coastline, to the northern most, you can catch various harbor displays of the fireworks as well. These are generally the best attended events, although the alcohol laws would suggest a much mellower crowd than usual this year.

Also fun are a couple of vistas within Balboa Park where you can see all of the Down Town and Harbor fireworks without any of the sound. For those with the younger children, these vista points are highly recommended.

Just a heads up, this year for whatever reason, mostly budgetary it seems, there are quite a few towns who annually provide fireworks that will not be displaying this year, including Oceanside, Chula Vista, Lake Murray, Valley Center, La Jolla Cove and possibly even the Qualcomm fireworks. Coronado looks like its show will be going on as well as Sea Port village. Hopefully wherever you like to go, you will get a chance to catch a nice light display. Happy 4^th of July Savvy folks!

Haggis and Chili this Weekend in San Diego

by Terese Farmen

June 25, 2009

Be sure to get your Chili on at the OB Street Fair this Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The event is free, the chili should be pretty varied and there are pony rides and other carnival rides for the kids. This is a nice family event and is right on the ocean, so even if the chili tastes horrible, you can go lick the ocean for some refreshing salt to clear the palate!

Although Oceanside will not be hosting fireworks this year, it appears that they will still be hosting the Freedom Days Parade on June 27 from 10 a.m. to noon. The route goes from Coast Highway and Wisconsin Ave and winds up at City Hall. There should be lots of entertainment in this downtown area and the event is free.

If you live a little more north, head to the Temecula Painting Festival over the weekend, starting at 10 a.m. each morning to catch the street painters on Sixth Street. Just like OB, they will have a yummy chili cook off and pony rides! The best part is that the city is actually sanctioning the graffiti of their streets.

If I weren't heading to San Francisco myself this very weekend, I would definitely want to go to the Scottish Highland Games and Gathering of the Clans event both weekend days in Vista at the Brengle Terrace Park (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) They have dancing, bagpipes, drumming, lots of Scottish food and other competitions. Forget chili, I think I would pay money to see a haggis eating contest! For more information, check out http://www.sdhighlandgames.org/.

Dinos and Finland for a Weekend

by Terese Farmen

June 18, 2009

I love Balboa Park for the simple reason that just walking up and down the large grassy area, you are bound to run into a multicultural event, a group learning martial arts, children running through water fountains and street performers collecting money from the innocent passersby. This weekend, on the 21^st, the Houses of Pacific Relations Cottages will be hosting an event to recognize Finland. There will be refreshments, dancing and live music out in the courtyard area, and best of all, the event is free. Visit http://www.sdhpr.org/ for more information.

The Cooper Family will be hosting an African cultural event off of Imperial Ave at 29^th and 30^th Streets with games for the kids, grilled hot dogs and an assortment of African dancing, art and drumming. The event will be hosted on June 20 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and appears to be family focused.

La Jolla has the Festival of the Arts this weekend, all day Saturday and Sunday. This place is neat because of the sidewalk chalk art and there are lots of games for the children. General admission is $10 for adults and the money goes to benefit local programs for physically challenged individuals. The event will be held at UC San Diego East Campus at Genesee Ave and Campus Point Dr. For more information, visit, http://www.lajollaartfestival.org/.

If you haven't had a chance, check out "Dino Mountain" at San Diego's Wild Animal Park. It's like Jurassic Park, only you don't have to worry about getting chased or eaten. The robotic dinosaurs should give some good perspective on what those beasts were all about. The display will be open until September. For more information, visit http://www.sandiegozoo.org/dinomountain.

Combat June Gloom with Weekend Fun Events

by Terese Farmen

June 11, 2009

There are lots of fun events to combat the June Gloom this weekend. Who can be glum when the San Diego County Fair is back with carnival rides, food, music and prizes for best singer and band of $25,000 during the "Music Mania" themed event. Check it out at 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd at the Del Mar Fairgrounds or visit the website at www.sdfair.com/fair.

One of my favorite Father Day events is to head to Oceanside for the Annual Inter-Tribal Pow Wow. This event will be held both Saturday and Sunday from morning until night. The San Luis Ray Band of Luiseno Mission Indians host this fun event at the San Luis Mission Grounds at 4050 Mission Ave. The event is inter-tribal and the event is very family and community focused. For more information, visit http://www.slrmissionindians.org/.

On June 13, from 10-7 p.m., Oceanside will be hosting the Juneteenth Multicultural Street Fair at the Oceanside Beach Pier Ampitheatre. There is lots of entertainment, carnival attractions and food. Visit the city of Oceanside website for more information.

Right before the Juneteenth Fair, head over to Buccaneer Beach from 9-11 a.m. to help clean the junk and debris leftover from the weekend fun with the Coastkeeper and Surfrider Foundation. It's a nice way to get exercise for the whole family and the Foundation provides all of the supplies.

Also this weekend at the St Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church at 3655 Park Blvd, be sure to check out the Greek Festival. Admission is free and dancing, music and food are all part of the fare.

Fun Events the First of June

by Terese Farmen

June 04, 2009

This weekend, several mud and exercise enthusiasts will be taking part in the semi-annual and world famous Mud Run. Although it sounds like a great place for a kid to be, they aren't allowed to enter the race and get as muddy as mom or dad. Instead, you might want to check out the various other kid friendly activities in town, that might be just a tad bit cleaner.

Head to the Bethel memorial AME Church on K and 31^st Street for the Body and Soul multicultural health fair for some pony rides, a jumper and other fun activities for the kids. They have health screenings for the public and yummy whole foods for purchase. The event is June 6 from 11-3 p.m. Visit http://www.bethelamesd.com/.

The fun Fiesta del Sol celebration will be taking place over the weekend in Solana Beach, all day each day. Entrance is free and there are lots of fun activities for the kids and free live music to boot.

If you are interested in celebration Filipino style, head to the Westfield Plaza Bonita in National City for the 11^th Annual Philippine Faire and Parade on June 6. The parade starts at 9:30 a.m. on Plaza Bonita Road. And if you haven't noticed a theme, this event also has fun entertainment for the kids, entertainment and of course, food.

Same goes for the Alpine History Day Celebration held on June 6 from 11-2 p.m. Lots of entertainment, memorabilia, jumpers for the little ones, and did I mention, food? Visit http://www.alpinehistory.org/ for more information.

Post Memorial Day Events

by Terese Farmen

May 28, 2009

This weekend almost feels like it should be Memorial Day weekend and after the tourists leave, it will definitely be our time to go back out to the beaches and celebrate summer with some family BBQs. However, aside from the favorite pastime of most of the residents, there are various activities throughout the County to keep folks entertained.

Since the weather is getting warmer with summer just a few weeks away, outdoor activities are starting to gear up. For example, Oceanside will be hosting a Movie in the Park this weekend. On May 29 at 6:15 p.m., the City will be presenting "Kung Fu Panda" free of charge at the Pier Amphitheater. For more information, visit, http://www.ci.oceanside.ca.us/.

If you are into a little bull or country, head to Ramona for the Rodeo this weekend May 29-31. There are lots of activities for the children, dancing for the adults, and roping, bronco riding, bareback riding, steer wrestling, for the country western enthusiasts. Kids get in free with an adult paid admission. The event is being held at the Fred Grand Arena at 421 Aqua Lane, Ramona.

If the kids are into fishing or water sports, head to Lake Murray on May 30 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. for the Kid's Fishing Derby. Kids will receive prizes for biggest fish. Bring fishing poles and children under 7 are free. Kids 8-15 are only $2.50 to enter. For more information, contact the Kiwanis Club at (619) 589-9516.

Memorial Day Weekend Happenings

by Terese Farmen

May 21, 2009

We're about a month away from summer time and already the sun is showing its glorious form to all of us San Diego beach bums. There are a bunch of activities during the Memorial Day weekend, but I am convinced that 80 percent of the locals and probably 75 percent of the tourists will find their way to the beach this weekend. If you can, ride a bike or take a bus. Parking is bound to be horrible.

If you are into chocolate at all, and even enjoy eating chocolate edible greeting cards, head to Escondido on Main Street and Vista Village Dr. for the Chocolate Festival on May 24 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. There is a free Kids Zone, food and music. It should be a fun event for the whole family.

If you want to keep with the food theme, check out the Ethnic Food Fair in Balboa Park on May 24 from 10 - 5 p.m. There will be dance performances, music and various types of food, and the event is free and open to the public.

For the creative and dare devils, a bunch of tweens and teens will be racing their Soap Boxes in the 17^th Annual Derby in Sherman Heights between Imperial and Market St. The event is on May 23 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The San Diego Blind Community Center will be hosting a fundraising walkathon at Lake Murray off Kiowa Drive on May 23. The walk begins at 7:30 a.m. and donations and walkers are welcome.

Grab your cowboy hat and head to ‘Valley Center on 28246 Lilac Road for Western Days hosted over the Memorial Day weekend. There is a carnival and lots of live entertainment, especially of the Western variety.

Street Fairs in the County this Weekend

by Terese Farmen

May 14, 2009

Summer is only a month away and San Diego is already starting to see the beginning of June Gloom creep its way. One minute, folks are turning up the A/C and the very next, zipping up their hoodies!

Bring out your sunscreen, short sleeves and jackets and be sure to hit up the plentitude of street fairs going on in the County this weekend.

Temecula will be hosting the "Western Days" event with lots of fun pony rides, a gunfight competition and simulated bank robbery. It should be lots of entertainment for your youngsters. The event is May 16 and 17 from 11-5. The event is on the corner of Front and Main Street in Old Town Temecula.

North Park will be hosting a Festival of Arts on May 17 from 10-6:30 p.m. Expect live music, circus acts and lots of art. The event is in the block around 30^th and University Ave.

Escondido will also be hosting a Street Fair on May 17 from 9-5 on Grand Ave. off of Center City Pkwy.

If you want more pony rides, inflatable jumpers, dancing and Fun Zones, check out the Annual Scripps Ranch Community Festival hosted on May 18 from 11-7:30 p.m.

There are also several Armed Forces Day celebrations throughout town, including the Tierra Santa Patriot's Day Parade. The route begins at the Serra High School, and ends at Farb Middle School. There are lots of children organizations in the parade and a rumored BBQ near by. For more information, contact the Kiwanis Club at (858) 268-0044.

Cinco de Mayo and Dogs with Flat Noses

by Terese Farmen

April 30, 2009

Cinco de Mayo, the Big Top Circus, a Dr. Seuss Literacy walk, Ruby Slippers and dogs with flat noses will all be vying for your attention this weekend.

To start, Old Town plans to go all out this weekend to celebrate Cinco de Mayo with stagecoaches (drawn by horses), dancing and lots of traditional Mexican food, art and culture. The event will be held May 2 from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Sunday, May 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The center of festivities will be held at the Old Town State Historical Park near Twiggs Street. For more information, please visit http://www.fiestaoldtown.com/.

If you're into smelly animal dung and painted clowns and like the authentic feel of the old canvas big tops, you won't want to miss the Carson and Barnes Circus which is rolling into town Friday through Sunday this weekend. The event will be held in Fallbrook at the Ingold Sports Park located at 255 Olive Hill Road. You can visit their website at http://www.carsonbarnescircus.com/ for show times and to purchase tickets.

I haven't decided if they are cute or ugly, but somehow you can't help but be charmed by the pug dogs. The Del Mar Fairgrounds will be hosting an Annual Pug Party from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on May 2. Tickets are $10/$5 and there are plenty of doggy contests and fun for the whole family.

Grab the water bottles and head out to Balboa park between 6^th and Laurel Ave for the Union-Tribune Kids Magic Mile Walk and Run. The event begins at 8 a.m. and kids will get free books, t-shirts and medals for their efforts. The money will go towards local literacy programs.

You've seen the movie version hundreds of times and some of you may have even read the original. Now you will have a chance to go somewhere over the rainbow this weekend for the San Diego Junior Theater's rendition of the Wizard of Oz. The show is for all ages and will be held at the Casa del Prado Theatre in Balboa Park this weekend and next. Check out http://www.juniortheatre.com/shows/2008-2009 for show times and to order tickets.

Family Fun this April Weekend

by Terese Farmen

April 23, 2009

This coming weekend is so packed with family fun things to do, I had a really hard time picking which events to publicize in today's blog. I suppose the Spring bug has gotten into folks and they are ready to pull out their arts and crafts created over the winter, bring out their pocket books for good causes and get out into the fresh air to enjoy this gorgeous spring weather.

April Showers Bring April Flowers! - What to Do this Weekend

by Terese Farmen

April 16, 2009

April showers brings May flowers seems like such a cliché in other cities (that actually experience rain) but the past few days of our half inch rain temper tantrums have really brought the local flowers to life. The showers have been kind to our foliage and with good timing considering all of the Spring celebrations of the last couple of weeks. My personal favorite festival in Balboa Park, which will be sponsoring its 20^th Anniversary this year, is coming up this weekend.

Top 5 Restaurants that Happen to Like Kids

by Terese Farmen

April 14, 2009

After a long week of work and chaperoning of various sports and play dates and other such endeavors, it's nice to find the time to take the family out to a restaurant and have somebody wait on your every whim. In these times of escape, heading to a family restaurant with screaming toddlers (who are not your own), greasy kid-specific food and fluorescent lighting doesn't seem appealing in the least.

However, on another note, heading to the restaurants with the nice white lace tablecloth, the immaculate dining areas and uptight wait staff is another hellacious experience waiting to happen.

Somehow there must be a middle ground - a place that allows you to be a grown up but doesn't frown because your 3 foot attachment isn't quite grown up enough.

The following is a list of my family's five favorite restaurants in San Diego that allow kids to have fun and grownups to relax without too much ado.

• El Toritos located at 5024 Baltimore Dr., La Mesa. El Toritos has delicious fajitas and yummy margaritas. For the kids, they have activity menus, delicious quesadillas and free desserts.
• TGI Fridays located at 403 Camino Del Rio, S, San Diego. Fridays is pretty loud as it is, with the centralized bar and the constant sports events hosted on the televisions. The kids have a chance to be a little noisier and boisterous and the kid's menu has its own activity section.
• Saigon Vietnamese located at 4455 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego in City Heights. With giant tables with spinny inner tables (to rotate and share food around the table), giant fish, lobster and crab tanks and delicious chicken noodle soup, this restaurant is fun for the children and pretty friendly. The tables are packed with families and yet there never seems to be the loudness and craziness associated with other restaurants families tend to dine at.
• Sammy's Woodfired Pizza located at 1620 Camino de la Reina, San Diego in Mission Valley. We love this restaurant because of its proximity to the trolley and because of its very kid friendly wait staff. It does help that we are able to bribe the children to good behavior with a promise of Maggie Moo's Ice cream located right next door, but the pizza is delicious and the trolley nice and distracting.
• Point Loma Seafoods located in Point Loma at 2805 Emerson St. This place has just about the freshest fish in town made to order and the tastiest lemonade ever. The food is reasonably priced and all of the seating is outdoors right up against the harbor. Although there is nothing specifically for the children here, the kids are usually pretty content to eat up, enjoy warm fish and then run up and down the docks.

Weekend of Eggs

by Terese Farmen

April 09, 2009

You can run, but you can't hide. The Easter Bunny and all of his colorful displays of eggs, candy and Spring pastels abounds. Of course, all of the fun events out there are about Easter, so might as well join the fun, right?

Kilts, Picnics and Eggs this Weekend

by Terese Farmen

April 02, 2009

The weather still hasn't made its mind up whether or not it has accepted the proposal of Spring so be sure to wear layers if you have a chance to enjoy any of these San Diego outdoor events that aim to celebrate the new season this weekend.

The first round of Easter Egg hunts will take place throughout the County on April 3 and 4. Children are encouraged to bring Easter baskets to hunt for colorful eggs. Some of the eggs include special prizes. For the younger hunters, you might want to head to the Paradise Hills Penn Athletic Field at 10 a.m. at 2550 Dusk Drive for more age-specific hunting grounds. For the 4 year olds and up, the South Clairemont  Rec Center is offering a "Parade of Wheels" contest where children can decorate their bikes and enter the Parade to win a prize. Of course, the Easter Bunny will also be making a guest appearance.

Weekend Running and Festivals

by Terese Farmen

March 26, 2009

This upcoming weekend, which happens to be the last week of March, is chalk full of festivals, art shows and good exercise.

If you are feeling up for a little exercise this weekend, and an early morning, join the 5K and 1 mile Run/Walk Legs for Literacy race in Scripps Ranch. The race will take place at Miramar Lake and donations would be used to support public schools. Call 858-547-5943 for additional information. Race begins at 6 a.m.

Another race for a good cause will be taking place on March 28 from 7-11 a.m. for San Diego's 5^th Annual Race for Autism. Money will be used for services and research for autistic children. The route begins in Balboa Park with a $20 admission fee to participate and $10 for children under 12. You can read about the event at www.nfar.org.

Freedom and Blue Grass This Weekend

by Terese Farmen

March 19, 2009

After putting away the green t-shirts, Shamrock-shaped cookies and Leprechaun characters for another St. Patty's Day that has come and gone, it is already time to start preparing for the Easter holidays which will be here before you know it! San Diego is rarely short on fun things to do, so while you are busy stocking up with egg dye and discounted candy, you can, in the meanwhile, check out the fun events coming up this weekend.

March Weekend Happenin's

by Terese Farmen

March 05, 2009

It's hard to believe that March is already here and if you can even believe the summer-like weather we've been having lately, you probably don't have to look to this blog for something to do.

First and foremost, get to the beach. They are a little packed, but the tourists aren't here yet (in droves) so it is still pretty manageable. The waves have been a little big lately and the sun is on the prowl, so be sure to lather on lots of sunscreen and drink plenty of water. It can be exhausting having such beautiful weather!

You can check out the Ocean Beach Kite Festival and Parade on March 7 starting at 9 a.m. you can create your hand made kite there and fly them for free. There's even a kid's parade starting at Sunset Cliffs Blvd and ending at the beach. For more information, contact the Kiwanis Club at (619) 225-8705.

If the beach isn't quite your cup of tea, there are a few other activities to tide you over until St. Patty's Day rears its green head in just 2 weeks.

If your kid is into cows at all, or is an animal enthusiast at all, you might want to check out the Cow Parade Exhibit in La Jolla. Eventually these jolly fiberglass creatures will be auctioned off to benefit local charities. To find out the latest stop of this big cow parade, call (858) 454-5718.

But if dogs are the favored pet, March 8 from 11-3p.m., you can bring your child to the Del Mar Kiwanis Ugly Dog Contest at the Del Mar Fairgrounds - Paddock Green. Don't worry, not all of the flea bags are ugly, there are also dog costume contests and cutest dog as well.  For more information call (858) 793-5555.

99 Things to Do in San Diego

by Terese Farmen

March 03, 2009

1. Watch the sun set at Pacific Beach

2. Dine with Shamu at Sea World

3. Touch an Orangutan's hand through glass at the San Diego Zoo

4. Tour the Star of India and pretend to be pirates

5. Feed deformed ducks at Chollas Lake

6. Take a lake ride tour of a Lego-built America at Legoland

7. Pick pumpkins at Victoria's Garden

8. Pick apples in Julian

9. Run with the dogs at Ocean Beach

10. Watch the surfers from the Pacific Beach pier

11. Fly kites at Mission Bay

12. Ride the trolley through down town

13. Take a flight to the San Diego airport during the sunset

14. Watch the dolphin show at Sea World

15. Build a Bear at Fashion Valley mall

16. Watch 4^th of July from Oceanside beach

17. Visit the Koi at the Koi Pond in Balboa Park

18. Run through the fountain on a hot day by the Fleet Space Museum

19. Camp at Cardiff by the Sea

20. Dance to the drummers on Sunday at the Balboa Park playground on Park Blvd.

21. Walk in the AIDS Walk or pass out waters to the walkers

22. Help Family Matters make banners for San Diego Pride's gay families

23. Tour the light house at the Cabrillo National Monument

24. See the giant Santa sled in Balboa Park during December nights

25. Legoland at New Year's in the Big Apple

26. Build a sand castle at Solana Beach

27. Eat milkshakes at Ruby's on the Oceanside pier

28. Shop for feather boas at Flashbacks in Hillcrest

29. Pet the sea animals at Sea World pools

30. Learn to fish at Chollas Lake

31. Rent bikes and ride on the boardwalk at Pacific Beach to Mission Beach and back

32. Jump in a blow up castle at Air Time in Spring Valley

33. Visit Borders in Mission Valley on a Sunday afternoon for reading time

34. Play dress up at Java Mama's in La Mesa

35. Dodge bird poop at the Aviary at the San Diego Zoo

36. Take the sky tram over the San Diego Zoo

37. Learn about recycling at the Earth Day festival in Balboa Park

38. Visit Old Town during Cinco de Mayo

39. Catch the 4^th of July fireworks from North Park

40. Go trick or treating in a Santee neighborhood

41. Chase the peacock at the San Diego Zoo

42. Feed the squirrels in Balboa Park

43. Feed the birds at the Carlsbad Sanctuary

44. Visit the Japanese Friendship Garden in spring

45. Catch an IMAX at the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center

46. Catch a play at the San Diego Junior Theater

47. Visit the World Beat Center's colorfully painted water tower

48. Swim at Morley Field pool on a hot day

49. Watch the lawn bowling at Balboa Drive/Laurel Street

50. Take the San Diego Walkabout Tour

51. Visit the Great White shark tank at Sea World and walk through the glass tunnel

52. Play on the swings at Pioneer Park

53. Take a day trip to Anza Borrego

54. Watch the stars from Cuyamaca

55. Eat fry bread at the Sycuan Pow Wow

56. Take a Whale watching excursion

57. Hunt for pine cones at Balboa Park

58. Drink hot chocolate at Sea Port Village

59. Go ice skating at Horton Plaza in the winter

60. Victoria's Garden to pick fresh strawberries

61. Hike the trails at Mission Bay

62. Watch the trolley go by at Sammy's Wood fire Pizza in Mission Valley

63. Wear green at the St. Patty's Day festival at Balboa Park

64. Take a tour of the US Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista

65. Watch the birds at Torrey Pines sanctuary

66. Wade in the tide pools at Cabrillo National Park

67. Drive to the top of Mt. Soledad for a great view of the city

68. Visit the artists at the Spanish Village Art Center

69. Visit the Gay and Lesbian Center for the Halloween festival

70. Rent paddle boats at Lake Murray

71. Visit the San Diego Aerospace Museum

72. Hang out at the newly renovated Children's Museum

73. Window shop in the Gaslamp Quarter

74.Drive across the Coronado Bridge with the windows down

75. Visit the Rodeo at the Del Mar Fairgrounds and pet the ponies

76. Hunt for Sea Shells in Encinitas

77. Eat free fruit samples at the Hillcrest Farmer's Market

78. Eat an ice cream cone on the boardwalk at Mission Beach

79. Visit the sea life at the Birch Aquarium

80. Eat cotton candy at the San Diego Zoo

81.Learn about static electricity at the Science Museum

82. See the wild cats at the San Diego Wild Animal Park

83. Run barefoot through the grass at the La Jolla Beach

84. Build a bonfire or enjoy a BBQ at Ocean Beach

85. Take a hydra vehicle from Sea Port village to see the Seals

86. Catch the San Diego Bay Parade of Lights in December

87. Play pitch at Petco before a Padres game

88. Bring buckets and shovels and marvel at the Imperial Beach Sandcastle competition

89. Catch the Red Bull Air Races

90. Check out the Del Mar Horse show in April

91. March in the Valentine's Day Zombie parade downtown

92. Get scared at the haunted Whaley House

93.Smell flowers at the Quail Botanic Gardens year round

94. Eat fresh fish and chips at the restaurants near Shelter Island

95. Star gaze at the Mount Palomar Observatory

96. Star gaze at the Mount Laguna Observatory

97. Visit the Carlsbad flower fields in the spring time

98. Take a ballet class from the San Diego School of Ballet

99. Invent your own ice cream flavor at Maggie Moo's in Mission Valley

Cultural San Diego Events This Weekend

by Terese Farmen

February 26, 2009

Hopefully the children have recovered from the plentitude of glass beads and drunken citizens of Mardi Gras and Fat Tuesday, as the last of the local celebrations dwindle off and a new weekend approaches.

Besides the ever exciting southern, jazzy sensations of the last week, you may also have been partaking in the multitude of multicultural and Black History celebrations throughout February. As the month comes to a close, there is one last festival to catch to celebrate Black History Month. The festival will be held on Feb. 28 from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Julian Town Hall (www.julianca.com/events/index.htm). Historical tours will be hosted as well as festive music, buttermilk pancakes and southern cooking.

Weekends and Whales

by Terese Farmen

February 20, 2009

The weekend after a combo Friday the 13^th and Valentine's Day may seem a little anti-climatical, but San Diego never seems to tire of hosting economical and fun family days, so don't indulge in too much chocolate and get too cozy on that couch. Bundle up with those winter jackets you so rarely get to pull out and head out for some fun.

Great apes

by Jenny Ciampa

November 14, 2008

Great Ape Awareness Week is taking place right now at our beloved San Diego Zoo. Now here is an opportunity to educate your preschooler on words, that when they understand and hear them, can set them into action: endangered and extinction. The purpose of this week of apes is to raise public awareness of animals on the brink of extinction. Can you imagine a world without apes? I can't and  Read more...

Follow the yellow book road

by Jenny Ciampa

November 13, 2008

Have you followed Parkway Drive in La Mesa to The Yellow Book Road ? You should, it's San Diego's largest children's bookstore. Toys, music, teaching supplies and obviously books adorn the walls and shelves of this fantastic bookstore. Other than having a top notch supply of children's books, The Yellow Book Road also has a story time every Saturday at 10 am. If you are a book lover and your  Read more...

Spooky, Spooky San Diego Favorites

by Jenny Ciampa

October 21, 2008

Let's be real; being a kid is San Diego is very, very cool. With so many places to visit and experience life (wild and tame), it's always exciting when some of your favorite jaunts add a new, and spooky, twist. Something you've not yet seen or been a part of. Something that makes a place unknown and exciting once again. San Diego has done it, my friends. Check out what the awesome  Read more...

A Very Orange and *Green* Halloween

by Jenny Ciampa

October 20, 2008

We all (I am hopeful when I say all) want to protect our planet and I love Americans, I do, but we sure are a bunch of consumers. I mean, seriously, think of all that we, kids included, will consume from Halloween alone: candy, candy, candy and costumes. Yikes. Of course there are ways to be green-and orange-this Halloween. Use this time as an opportunity to teach your kiddos about NOT  Read more...

Day Trip, Anyone?

by Jenny Ciampa

October 13, 2008

I was introduced to Bate's Nut Farm three years ago by a girlfriend who lives in Escondido. She raved about visiting this farm in October with its pumpkins and cornstalks. Honestly, I was thinking this place was your typical pumpkin patch-you know, the one with pumpkins all bunched together with cut cornstalks near haystacks...on an empty lot. Just imagine the exact opposite of that.  Read more...

Zoo Enrichment

by Jenny Ciampa

October 09, 2008

Have you ever been to the zoo during an All About Enrichment Weekend ? If you have not, I highly recommend that you attend one at some point in your child's preschool years. They take place the second weekend of most months and are worth a visit-here's why. While cruising through the zoo and checking out some of your favorite animals, you might notice something that looks  Read more...

Gross Me Out

by Jenny Ciampa

October 08, 2008

Today at Free Museum Tuesdays , the Fleet Science Center opened it's doors to a boatload of people without charging them an ounce of admission. We braved the crowds just to check out the new Animal Grossology Exhibit. Upstairs you will find Animal Grossology . Kids were everywhere and they were of all ages. Older kiddos were grossed out reading facts, preschoolers were mesmerized  Read more...

Where All the Costumes Are

by Jenny Ciampa

October 07, 2008

Finding the perfect costume for your little one can be a challenge, especially if your child wants to be a cupcake or chocolate donut like my daughter. Sometimes, handmade costumes are the way to go but for those of you out there with hardly enough time to make your bed, here are some fantastic places to find costumes. Buffalo Breath -how about that name? Located right outside of  Read more...

Halloween Spooktacular at Sea World

by Jenny Ciampa

October 03, 2008

Now here is an event we are looking very forward to because we love Sea World and Halloween. To see this awesome park hosting a Halloween event for the first time gets our attention. This Halloween Spooktacular happens every Saturday and Sunday in October, Halloween and the first weekend in November. Kiddos can enter Sea World in their costume, trick-or-treat at various stations  Read more...

Savvy Pick: Favorite Post of September

by Jenny Ciampa

September 30, 2008

Today we have been asked by the Savvy Source team to choose our favorite post this month. When I looked back over the posts I wrote in September there was one that I had so much fun creating: Appreciating the Old Town Art Festival With Preschoolers. The reasons for this post being my favorite are: 1. I love a good art festival. 2. There are lots and lots of art festivals in San  Read more...

Hullabaloo at The W

by Jenny Ciampa

September 26, 2008

If you haven't been to the W Hotel downtown for Mommy Hour , you need to go. And, you need to go this Wednesday, October 1 st . If you have never heard about Mommy Hour, check this out. Believe me; you will want to experience Mommy Hour at least once in your kids-under-six mommy years. The big draw this month at Mommy Hour, other than the delicious mojitos and free child care  Read more...

Not Your Ordinary Playdate

by Jenny Ciampa

September 25, 2008

Are you in the mood to expose your kiddo to some eclectic music that yes, you too will enjoy? Want to get a dance party going for your babe and some of their playmates so you can listen to good music with other parents while checking out the awesome dance moves of preschoolers? Call up your best mommy and daddy friends and organize a playdate at the Adams Avenue Street Fair. This  Read more...

It Takes Two; Things to Do That Are More Fun With a Pal

by Jenny Ciampa

September 23, 2008

There are certain activities my girl and I enjoy doing on our own and then there are those days where we enjoy the company of our friends. My girl gets to explore with a pal and I get to hang out with my mommy pal too. Sometimes, it's just more fun that way especially doing these activities. Kindernights at the Zoo -this is the perfect out of the ordinary event to do with a friend.  Read more...

Come An' Get It: Free Stuff in October!

by Jenny Ciampa

September 22, 2008

There are some places here in our good ol' San Diego that are offering up some free stuff in October. Can you believe that October is literally right around the corner Back to the free stuff. We all love a freebie and here are some great opportunities to save a few bucks and have a good time. Hornblower Cruises is offering one hour bay cruises free to children 12 and under. Here's  Read more...

Appreciating the Old Town Art Festival with Preschoolers

by Jenny Ciampa

September 19, 2008

Do you ever feel up for an art festival yet avoid it because your preschooler would rather be scaling the walls than appreciating art? If you are in the mood for walking around Old Town, checking out art, listening to live music and eating tasty, tasty Mexican food come this weekend to the Old Town Art Festival . Here are some suggestions to make it fun for your preschooler too. The  Read more...

Where to Go Out Sans Kids

by Jenny Ciampa

September 16, 2008

This post is for all the parents out there in desperate need of going out and having a good time. Sans kids, add good friends if you want. Just get a babysitter, get out and get dressed up for a night, or Sunday morning, out on the town. Anthology -so this supper club with jazz music is the talk of Little Italy and comes highly recommended by numerous friends who enthusiastically  Read more...

Kids Care Fest

by Jenny Ciampa

September 15, 2008

This coming up Saturday, September 20 th , the 7 th annual Kids Care Fest is happening at Briarcrest Park, in La Mesa, from 9am-2pm. This is an opportunity to teach your kiddos the importance of taking care of their cute little bodies. There will be a variety of health care screenings such as vision, hearing, dental and chiropractic. This is all FREE. Very cool. Educational health  Read more...

Day Trip: U-Pick Apples in Julian

by Jenny Ciampa

September 12, 2008

Apples in September, they bring thoughts of back to school and Julian . Right? Right. The apple orchards in Julian are open for the pickin'. Plan a day trip and head on out to the town that boasts tasty apple pies and history of gold. Best time to visit Julian and pick apples is mid-week. It's quieter and not so jam-packed with visitors. But, you need to be sure to check out the list  Read more...

Art Walk on the Bay: Kidswalk, Kids Give

by Jenny Ciampa

September 10, 2008

For the past few years, we have been regulars at Art Walk in Little Italy. Progressively through the years this art festival has become better and better. More art, more performers, more icy cold drinks, and more stuff for the kiddos. For these reasons, we are very excited for the return of Art Walk on the Bay (put on by the same folks as Little Italy's Art Walk) this weekend, September 13  Read more...

Cafes for Meeting Friends & Staying Sane

by Jenny Ciampa

September 09, 2008

There are two places here in San Diego that deserve mention not only for their creative genius and friend making opportunities, but for their understanding of a parent's need for a break. These two places will enrich your child while they enrich your social, and personal, needs too. Java Mama -located in La Mesa, Java Mama is heaven. For $3.00, your kiddo can play in a supervised play  Read more...

A Smooth Start to the World of Preschool

by Jenny Ciampa

September 02, 2008

This will officially be the first full year of preschool for my girl. With the approach of preschool beginning one week from today, we have begun preparing for a great start to a new school year. Talk it Up -I have been talking about preschool like crazy. Oh, it will be so much fun to see Miss Nancy! What exciting art projects do you think you will do on the first day of preschool I  Read more...

Social Animals: Kids' Safari at the Zoo

by Jenny Ciampa

September 01, 2008

Welcome to September, my friends. The month of back to school, back to routines, and back to that constant work of exposing your preschooler to our social world...not like this ever stopped in the first place. But you know, socialization for this age group is a work in progress. The San Diego Zoo is offering up a social activity for kiddos ages 3-7 years old this Sunday, September 7th.  Read more...

So Long, Farewell San Diego Summer

by Jenny Ciampa

August 29, 2008

Well, my friends, the time has come to wave goodbye to August and head into September-a month that truly feels like we have moved on and let go of summer. But before we do, let's have one last hurrah this Labor Day Weekend. Many of San Diego's summer events end this weekend so if you are looking to squeeze in something you have been talking about doing all summer long, here's your  Read more...

Cooling Off in San Diego

by Jenny Ciampa

August 26, 2008

I'm not sure how many of you out there are feeling that muggy and humid heat we've been having lately but it's enough to make me want to jump right in the bay to cool off. Since that isn't the best idea, here are some better ways to cool off and enjoy the heat. Sit in the Splash Zone at the Shamu Show -this will seriously cool you down. We sat in the splash zone thinking, Aw, we won't  Read more...

Nighttime Zoo: Last Week, Final Suggestions

by Jenny Ciampa

August 25, 2008

This week marks the final week of the Nighttime Zoo . I took my daughter this past week, around 3pm. Everything about our visit was perfect:the weather, the animal sightings, the shows. If you have the opportunity to hit up the Nighttime Zoo before its final evening on September 1 st , here are some suggestions from two people, a preschooler and a mama, who thanked the zoo profusely for  Read more...

Your First San Diego Catch

by Jenny Ciampa

August 22, 2008

Fishing is a right of passage for kids. I remember my first fishing trip with my dad. Catching trout then bringing them back to the cabin to watch him filet and cook them up for dinnerit was a fascinating science experiment and lesson in our connection to nature. If you're looking for that special first time fishing memory, look no further. National Hunting and Fishing Day is September 27  Read more...

History Lesson: Stagelines to California

by Jenny Ciampa

August 21, 2008

Yearning for a bit of yesteryear? Celebrate the 150 th anniversary of Butterfield Overland Mail Stage at Stagecoach Days in Old Town and you'll be thanking these men who made our mail service what it is today. Kiddos will be mesmerized by coaches that delivered letters a long time ago. Heck, you'll be mesmerized by the fact that these men were committed to 25 days of travelin a stagecoach.  Read more...

Down by the Bay, Where the Big Ships Go

by Jenny Ciampa

August 20, 2008

It's that time of year my maritime mates, the Festival of Sail is here in our very own San Diego Bay. If you want your preschooler to see an impressive variety of historic ships with their massive sails, don't miss this event. Festivities begin today with the Parade of Ships at 10am. Seriously, it feels as if you have hopped into some sort of time machine watching these ships sail in.  Read more...

Marine Biology for Little Minds at Birch Aquarium

by Jenny Ciampa

August 18, 2008

Little minds are intrigued with life under the sea, just look at the success of Nemo. Living in San Diego, we are fortunate to have an aquarium whose education programs feed those hungry minds about what life under the sea is really all about. Birch Aquarium's A-B-Sea Club offers monthly, theme based classes for infants up to four year olds. With names like Five-Armed Frenzy, Ocean  Read more...

Coast up the Coast on the Coaster

by Jenny Ciampa

August 11, 2008

We had our first experience on Coaster this weekend and I must say, Where have I been This cheap and convenient form of public transportation was easy breezy with a three year old in tow. We are going to use this more often to hit up San Diego's coastal cities . Kiddos under 5 ride for free and me, well I paid $11.00 round trip from downtown to Solana Beach. We hit the races for the  Read more...

Down by the Shore at Legoland

by Jenny Ciampa

August 08, 2008

As we spend this month enjoying those final weeks of summer down by the shore, we are either dreading the end of these lazy days or relishing in the idea of another school year. The shore is a wondrous place and even though the end of vacation is near, Legoland opens its doors to a new exhibit, Sea Life Aquarium , that will keep the sea alive. All. Year. Long. The beauty of this  Read more...

Movie Night at Petco Park

by Jenny Ciampa

August 06, 2008

Now here's an opportunity to take your preschooler out to the ballpark to do something other than watch a ballgame. They can watch a movie! This Saturday, August 9 th , Petco Park will be hosting Movies at the Park . Spread out a blanket on Picnic Hill to get cozy and comfy for the 7pm showing of Madagascar. If you get there early, run around the Little Padres baseball diamond, play a  Read more...

Petco Park, Home of the Padres

by Jenny Ciampa

July 29, 2008

If you haven't taken your kids to see the Padres , you are striking out. Petco Park is a fantastic place to take the kiddies to experience America's pastime. We live downtown and take our girl to games all of time-we know this place well and think you should too. Here's our take on the best ways to enjoy Petco Park. Take Me Out to the Ballgame -the best bang for your buck is a Park  Read more...

Family Days at the SDNHM

by Jenny Ciampa

July 24, 2008

The San Diego Natural History Museum is showcasing a new exhibit entitled Water H20=Life . I personally look forward to taking my daughter to experience this exhibit as education is power and with the state of our water supply locally and globally, she should know what's up. To celebrate the phenomena we call water, the museum will host Water: H20=Life Family Days this Saturday, July 26  Read more...

A Mommy Movie Escape

by Jenny Ciampa

July 23, 2008

There are two things that stick out vividly when I think of the immediate changes of becoming a new parent. One. Taking a shower whenever I wanted became a thing of the past. Two. Going to see a movie whenever I wanted ceased to exist. Of course there are other vivid memories but you get the gist? Ultra Star Cinemas helps out with number two. Every Wednesday or Thursday morning  Read more...

An Escape for the Senses in Little Italy

by Jenny Ciampa

July 18, 2008

Saturday mornings in Little Italy are easy on the senses. Store owners sweep their patios, neighbors sip coffee while walking their dogs, and the aroma of homemade pastries seep out of bakeries. Mornings in Little Italy are a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of lifeand it just got better. The Little Italy Mercato is a breath of fresh, Saturday morning air. This open air  Read more...

Shark Week at Birch Aquarium

by Jenny Ciampa

July 17, 2008

[photo credit: stock.xchng] A reality of being a kiddo, adult, surfer at San Diego's beaches is sharks. Yep, sharks, the T-Rex of the sea. Yikes. Regardless of their menacing and rather terrifying demeanor you cannot help but be fascinated with this predator. Enormous jaws, razor sharp teeth, creepy eyes, dorsal fins cutting water and let's not forget they hunt in our very ocean. An  Read more...

Viejas Fire Expo-Celebrating Firefighters

by Jenny Ciampa

July 16, 2008

[photo credit: stock.xchng] This Saturday, July 19 th , is the Viejas Fire Expo/Firefighter Combat Challenge at Qualcomm Stadiuman event that will entertain the whole family. Moms will be swooning (fires aren't the only thing hot about firefighters), Dads will be feeling manly, and kids, well they will be in awe of these heroes. At 11am, opening ceremonies take place followed by  Read more...

An Education in Sand

by Jenny Ciampa

July 11, 2008

This weekend in Imperial Beach, the US Open Sand Castle Competition is the main event. In honor of our love of the beach, and the sand that comes along with it, here are some fun and educational activities to enjoy while at the beachfrom our very own Savvy Source team. Finding Buried Treasure -before leaving home, gather a bunch of dollar aisle toys. Send the kiddos down to the shore  Read more...

Three Days In and Around San Diego: Day 3

by Jenny Ciampa

July 10, 2008

The Jewel of San Diego La Jolla, meaning the jewel in Spanish, lives up to its sparkly name. This spectacular coastal community has a day's worth-a weeks worth-of activities for every age group. I've highlighted a kid-friendly day in the life of La Jolla including options because honestly, it's hard to decide. This town is magnificent. Hungry for breakfast? Grab a table on the  Read more...

Three Days in and Around San Diego: Day 2

by Jenny Ciampa

July 09, 2008

Insider Tips Ok, since choosing only one attraction to make a day out of is a tough choice, what I thought I would do is give you some insider tips. You know, suggestions on making the most of your visit to one of these famous San Diego attractions. That's what you came to San Diego for, right? San Diego Zoo -the Nighttime Zoo is a mustand here's my suggestion. Get to the zoo in  Read more...

Best Parts About Coming Home to San Diego

by Jenny Ciampa

July 08, 2008

Leaving home for vacation is a monumental escape and the return, oh the return, how deflating. BUT, not when you live in San Diego with a preschooler. Coming home to San Diego is a vacation. Here is why: San Diego Weather -oh my, if this doesn't make you love coming home to San Diego, move somewhere else. Year round, we experience an average daily temperature of 70.5'. Year. Round.  Read more...

Camping: San Diego Style

by Jenny Ciampa

July 07, 2008

Campgrounds with raging fires, marshmallow poked skewers, and silly songs all under the big night sky are hands down my most cherished childhood memories. Sleeping under the stars or on the floor of a tent with net windows was the BEST. But let me say, San Diego style camping is soooo San Diego. Check these campgrounds out: Family Safari Sleepover at the San Diego Zoo -Pack your bags  Read more...

The Old World Storytellers

by Jenny Ciampa

July 04, 2008

[photo credit: wikimedia] The Coronado Public Library is hosting an old world style, marionette performance of Thumbelina on its lawn, Saturday, July 5 th at 1 pm. An old world style performance? How cool. Many babes might think of Pinocchio singing, I've got no strings to hold me down when they think of marionettes. Or many babes might think, What's a marionette What I find so  Read more...

US Open Sand Castle Competition

by Jenny Ciampa

July 03, 2008

It's that time of year again. That time of year in Imperial Beach that is so intriguing 350,000 people are expected to show up. Holy crowds. It's time for the US Open Sand Castle Competition and it's happening July 12-13 th . If you haven't been to this event, you've most likely seen it on TV or even the National Geographic Channel. It's a big deal, literally. This event of great  Read more...

Essential Summer Music in San Diego

by Jenny Ciampa

July 01, 2008

When I think of summer music I always think of Danny and Sandy singing Summer Nights while frolicking on the beach. Next, I think about those carefree music festivals I went to in college in the great outdoors. Since I'm not about to expose my 3 year old to any of those carefree festivals, I've found some Danny and Sandy appropriate venues. Summer Pops at the Embarcadero -nestled on  Read more...

Big Bay of Fireworks

by Jenny Ciampa

June 30, 2008

[photo credit: wikimedia] I remember when my husband and I first moved to downtown San Diego. We'd be chillin' at home and BANG! We would look out our window and there were fireworks. Huh? It's a Tuesday night in November. A day later the same thing happened. What? Many unexpected BANG!s later, we realized San Diego is the city of fireworks for every occasion. So it came of no surprise  Read more...

Summer & Reading Go Hand in Hand

by Jenny Ciampa

June 26, 2008

[photo credit: stockx.chng] I don't know about all of you but summertime and reading go hand in hand, it's like sunscreen and swimming pools. Sure, my summer reading has changed from novel after novel to maybe getting through one in three months but hey, reading is reading. Encouraging the love of reading in kids during these not so structured months takes place at the Coronado Public  Read more...

Surf's Up...for Man's Best Friend

by Jenny Ciampa

June 23, 2008

OK, if there is one event that you have got to take your child to this summer, let this be it. The 3 rd Annual Loews Coronado Bay Surf Dog Competition is taking place this Saturday, June 28 th in Imperial Beach. Surfing canines, are you kidding me? We personally have never been to this competition but, mark my word, we will be there. San Diego-what a place to raise a preschooler. I still  Read more...

Happy Mommy Hour

by Jenny Ciampa

June 20, 2008

Mommy Hour at The W Hotel's bar, The Beach , is baaaack! WOO HOO! Can you say, Swanky Quite honestly, I had not felt swanky since '94 yet, the moment I stepped foot at The Beach, I was swanky again. This rooftop bar is a mommy vacation. Sandy floors, wild grasses flowing with the breeze, cabanas with crispy, white lounge chairsit's as if you are being fancy in the Hamptons with your  Read more...

5 Classes You Should Know About

by Jenny Ciampa

June 17, 2008

[photo credit: stockx.chng] On those non-preschool days, my girl and I have our favorite habits but you know, we need to kick those habits and try out some new gigs. San Diego offers a lot more than our same ol' habits ever will. Nature, Mommy and Me -on the second Thursday of each month at the Natural History Museum in Balboa Park this class is offered for kiddos ages 1-5. Story  Read more...

The Budding Art Critic: How to Make the SDMA a Place Your Child Loves

by Jenny Ciampa

June 02, 2008

[photo credit: stockx.chng] Georgia O'Keefe has arrived! The Georgia O'Keefe and the Women of Stieglitz Circle exhibit is on its last stop, here in San Diego, from May 24-September 28 th . We checked out the exhibit on opening day because I could no longer contain my excitement. O'Keefe's flowers are um, let's say, thought provoking. Before our visit, I dusted off My Name is  Read more...

Mozart, Moby or Miles: A Guide to the San Diego Preschool/Toddler Music Scene

by Jenny Ciampa

May 30, 2008

[photo credit: stockx.chng] Kids and music-we've all read the stories, heard the songs, hoped that our child's musical exposure would grow their brain. Heck, my girl's favorite song is Hot Child in the City. Coincidence? I think not. The preschool/toddler music scene is hot, just like their dance moves. You know the 7 th Day Buskers are performing at The Hillcrest Farmer's Market when  Read more...

5 Best Ways to Enjoy Balboa Park

by Jenny Ciampa

May 13, 2008

[photo credit: wikimedia] At 1,200 acres, Balboa Park marks itself as the largest, urban, cultural park in the nation. Little minds are bound to grow large in Balboa, let's ripen them. The Lawn Programs at the House of Pacific Relations International Cottages is a worldly trip for your babe. 31 countries, each represented by a cottage, share their cultural music, dance, food, art  Read more...