This Week In Phone Pictures: AKA Kids Do The Darndest Things

Momma Told Me: Someday, you'll understand.

As you all know I have been up to my eyeballs with children lately. For those new to the blog, I do not have my own, at this time, so I get my 'fix' by borrowing others' cuties in the form of day care. When Sabrina's (10) mother's boyfriend won custody of his kiddos for July I stepped in to help provide day-entertainment for a 3 and 8 year-old as well. Just let me say, I have a new-found respect for full time parents, and especially the single ones. In the past I have implemented a strict 'no kid under 5' rule, for my babysitting services. I know not all agree, but I have never found babies and toddlers appealing; I get quite frustrated with the difficulty in communicating needs and feelings through developed language skills. I feel horrible for saying it, but I've honestly found kids in the 7+ range to be to most fun for me to care for. That being said, I've found a soft spot for a certain choo-choo loving 3 year-old, these past 2 weeks.

In addition to finding a smooth schedule that works well with the big age gap between the youngest and the two girls, I've also come across a few gems of wisdom and a few smile worthy kid-isms. For example, the 3 year-old (boy) was heard shouting to roll up the windows for fear his hair would get messed up, from the back seat. In addition, every time we pass through a local drive-thru, with a certain charity ad on it's windows he can be heard shouting 'That's my daddy!' while pointing at a man in uniform playing with a young boy. Yes, his father is a proud member of our US military, and, to a 3-year old, every brave soldier pictured is his 'daddy.' Of course, caring for such a young-ling during the day is not without it's obstacles and tantrums, I've learned; never leave the house without tissues and wipies, spell exciting (and not so exciting) words like 'nap' and 'Chuck-E-Cheese' rather than say them (or risk hearing them repeated at 5 second intervals), and a crying kid will cry themselves to sleep eventually, but a good tickle monster attack will get the job done much faster, and with a smile.

Of course there have been a few temporary changes in our house to make it kid friendly. We've moved the giant 5' Xorbee memory foam lounge sack int the center of the living room. The first day of our impromptu day-care it became an instant hit with children flinging themselves, and each other onto it. I also made the mistake of hauling out our personal penguin and panda stuffed animal collections, and am now missing each and every tag that used to be attached. And it turns out our 4lb Morkie, Nora, is a bit too enthusiastic (in a playful puppy way) for the younger kids, and can clear out the living room in 30 seconds flat. It's a wonderful way to round up the kids, really, but also hilarious to watch them scramble on top of furniture from a 1.5' tall dog!

We've found plenty of great, and affordable, local activities to do throughout the week, in part thanks to a wonderful chain of websites (set up for communities nationwide) known as Macaroni Kid, which has a calendar of events, by day, with free and cheap activities for kids during the Summer. This week we went to the California Science Center (pictures and post to come), took advantage of free bowling for kids at the nearby bowling center, visited the local pier and beach park for kites and gourmet cupcakes, played with twirling ribbons and chalk from the dollar store (the 10 year old was seen drafting the characters from King of the Hill and Family Guy), and are preparing for the first annual 'Un-Birthday Party' tomorrow (great pics and post to come, as well). As you can see, I've been busy from sun up, to sun down; but am very excited about the fun content I'll be able to share on the weekend, and in August (once the two younger kiddos head back home).

I'm not the only one who has been worn out by all the fun, as you can see above! Excuse my poorly lit and sometimes fuzzy cell-phone pictures featured in this post. There isn't always time to grab a 'real' camera when these moments pop up, and it's easiest to be discreet when photographing kids! Well, I am off to bed- I have to be up bright and early to welcome my quasi-campers and get ready for our big bash. I can't wait to share our full adventures with you, and some more adorable pictures of these 3 cuties. Drop a line and let me know what you've been up to this Summer-

What Daughter Says: I may find myself repeating Momma more often these days, but that's purely from a new found appreciation for them!

Good Mood Food: Pecan Chicken Salad Wrap + Triple Berry Shake Giveaway

***Our family was invited, as guests, to sample the new Limited Time menu selections at an Arby's near us. No further compensation was provided. All photos are copyright Momma Told Me Blog 2013.

Momma Told Me: Seasons come and go, but good food is always in style.

When I was younger fast food was always considered a treat. Not that Momma's cooking wasn't good, but there was something about a freshly seasoned fry, and a paper wrapped sandwich that simply put me in a good mood. Our hometown has no shortage of fast service restaurants, with 8 different chains just off our street, alone. But there was always one that we had to make a 'special' trip for. One town over, right next to the mall, was a little hole in the wall Arby's. At first I only cared for the Jamocha shakes, a thick and creamy blend of chocolate swirl and coffee infused ice cream. Every month or so my father would get a hankering for their world famous roast beef sandwiches, and sure enough, we'd make the 30 minute drive to indulge in a little Good Mood Food dinner. I recall, for our small 3 person family, alone, we'd walk out with 10 or more Roast Beef, and Beef N' Cheddar Arby's sandwiches- Pop would quite literally live off them for a week.

As I got older, and began to eat foods outside my usual comfort zone, I turned to my father for culinary inspiration. Anything he like to eat, I would give a proper chance. I had always dipped my curly fries in their signature zesty Arby's Sauce (in fact, Momma even used to buy it by the bottle, back when it was sold that way in stores), but had never cared to try their signature roast beef sandwiches. Needless to say, it was love at first bite. There was nothing else like it at any other fast food restaurant, and I was hooked. Just one bite of that oven-roasted beef, piled high beneath a sot sesame seed bun, bright red Arby's sauce spilling down the sides, I knew we'd be best mates for life. Really, it's not everyday I plug a fast food establishment; so, for those unfamiliar with this chain, hunt it down! Arby's has some truly original classics and a wonderful Value Menu for any budget, but they also offer some Select options that cater to seasonal palettes and local tastes.

In addition to their wildly popular, and Deli Shop quality authentic Reuben and Ultimate Angus sandwich selections, Arby's has added a Market Fresh range to their menu. This collection of seasonal inspired menu selections is the brand's answer to a more health conscious and epicurean customer. With a slightly higher price point then the brand's typical premium sandwiches, options such as the Roast Turkey Ranch and Bacon or Roast Turkey and Swiss offer a classic true deli experience leaps above the modern 'value' sub shop. As a big fan of the chain I've been on their product development survey list for about a year and receive bi-weekly survey links featuring top secret upcoming product ideas. I love having a chance to provide valuable feedback to shape the chain's 'next big thing,' and think it's great that Arby's utilizes its consumers to make such big branding decisions. Recently thousands of fans voted wholeheartedly 'yes' for King's Hawaiian bun sandwiches, and this Summer a new seasonal Market Fresh Sandwich was also introduced; the Pecan Chicken Salad Sandwich.

When paired with Arby's new Limited Time House Made Chips and Triple Berry Shake, the Pecan Chicken Salad Sandwich (available on honey wheat bread, or in a whole grain wrap) is the perfect light fare for a lazy Summer afternoon. Our family recently had a chance to visit our local establishment, as guests, to try the new menu selections. I'll admit, this was not the Arby's fare I grew up with, but I was excited to try the new menu innovations and explore unique flavors I would never find at the local McDonald's or Burger King. The other half was a bit unsuspecting as he took his first bite into that Pecan Chicken Salad Wrap full of grilled chicken chunks, crunchy pecans, diced red apples, crisp celery, juicy red grapes, mayonnaise and green leaf lettuce. While he ate the entire wrap, there were several comments about the unique selection of fresh fruit and veggies contained within. In the wrap, I found it quite refreshing; though there seemed to be a little too much sweet fruit for my tastes (I'd prefer the grapes left out and the crunch of the celery and apples to care the fresh flavors).

Also included in our culinary exploration were the brand's Limited Time House Made Chips, cut thick Kettle style and tossed in authentic Arby's Sauce seasoning. These truly proved too be the perfect compliment to the Market fresh range, offering an authentic deli feel with plenty of seasoned flavor to balance out the light Pecan Chicken Salad Wrap. Sabrina (10) had to get used to the thicker 'Kettle' style chips, but really enjoyed the flavor of the thick coat seasoning. I thought it was especially neat to see the artisan style crisps of varying sizes, which gave the meal a more handmade and personal feel. Naturally we wrapped with the latest of the brand's famous shakes; the Triple Berry Shake, names so for its harmonious blend of tart raspberries, and sweet strawberries and blueberries. Topped with a fluffy mound of whipped cream, and decorated with a Berry Syrup swirl, this was clearly the showman of our meal.

The smiles don't lie, the new Arby's Limited Time Summer selections were a big hit, and certainly the perfect example of why this chain is known for it's Good Mood Food. I loved the thick and extra creamy texture of the Triple Berry Shake and how it balanced the zesty Arby's flavor of the House Made Chips, and the light, yet largely portioned main course of the Pecan Chicken Salad Sandwich. While I wouldn't order these items year round, and they haven't replaced my favorite Arby's Roast Beef sandwich, they are the perfect mid-week indulgence for this Southern California beach-town native. I can't wait to see what the chain will roll out next and have already been asked when we're going back!

What Daughter Says: Arby's is always innovating fresh and inspired selections for their menu, and I love exploring them!

One Momma Told Me reader will win 3 Pecan Chicken Salad Sandwich (or Wrap), 3 House Made Chips, and 2 Triple Berry Shake vouchers!

Arrrrrgh You Ready For Adventure?! Pirate's Interactive Dinner Show

***We were invited to Pirate's Dinner Adventure, Buena Park, as guests, for the purpose of this post. No further compensation was provided. All images, save arena panoramic, are original and property of Momma Told Me Blog 2013.

Momma Told Me: You just can't beat dinner and a show!

Growing up, and living in Southern California I am spoiled with a veritable collection of tourist geared activities and attractions. Of course, anyone who is a native will tell you just living 10 minutes outside of 'the big city' (Los Angeles) can mean an hour or more of driving. Unfortunately, with out home some 40 miles from most of the main attractions, this means 2-3 hours of travel time in traffic. This means I have, sadly, visited but a fraction of the family entertainment available to us, despite spending the past 27 years of my life a stones-throw away. When I was a child, my parent's vacation destination of choice was Disneyland. Overcrowded, even as a 4 year old, I never cared for it much; but I did have a fascination with one ride- The Pirate's of The Caribbean. I would wait patiently for over an hour in the hot Summer sun for 2 minutes on that interactive excursion.

More recently I've been trying to make up for my laziness as a California blessed with such a prime location. I know I don't visit the beach, less than 2 miles away, nearly as often as I should, and I've found I'm little help when it comes time to plan excursions for family and friends visiting from out of town. I've come to realize life is, essentially, short, and it's time I make forward movement to get out and experience the fun and exciting attractions in my own backyard. I know many of my readers are located across the country, and some the world, but it is my humble hope you may learn a little more about the sites and sounds local to me, perhaps for an upcoming vacation. Last year we attended one of the 7 famed Medieval Times castles in nearby Buena Park, CA. I'd never been to a Dinner Theater attraction before, and was tickled to visit as a guest. I had nothing to compare it to, so I was understandably blown away by the presentation of atmosphere, food, and entertainment.

Ironically, right next door, nearly in the same parking lot, was a second unrelated Dinner Theater attraction; Pirate's Dinner Adventure (also found in Orlando, Florida). When I was planning my trip to Medieval Times I recall speaking with several neighbors, family, and friends who had been to both attractions before. The general consensus was that the show was better at Pirate's, but the food was better at Medieval Times. At the time I thought this seemed notably odd, but again, had nothing to compare my upcoming experience to, so I brushed it off. Flash forward to present day, having just completed my first visit to Pirate's Dinner Adventure; for me, there is no comparison between the two attractions. Now, to be fair, Sabrina (10), who attended the new Rise of The Sea Dragon Show with us, has visited Pirate's on multiple occasions, along with Jay. I was sure to bring people who had a unique previous perspective to truly gain the insight of returning guests and their reaction to the new show.

On the day of the show we left our home at 3PM for a 7PM dinner show, and arrived at 6:07PM, after 3 hours of Los Angeles traffic. The doors to the venue open about an hour prior to showtime, so we weren't late, but it did leave me feeling a bit overwhelmed upon arrival. I snapped a quick picture of Sabrina (easily my new favorite photo of her), in her masquerade mask she had purchased on her last visit to Pirate's (Fall 2012), and we got in line to pick up our tickets at the window. Once checked in we were each handed a strand of beads and bandana to indicate which color pirate we would be cheering for that evening. For those unfamiliar with dinner shows such as this, the format is typically the same. Guests enter a giant stage area, surrounded by arena style seating, and are placed in colored sections according to the character/hero they will be cheering for during the 90 minute show. Despite Sabrina's entirely Purple outfit, we were placed in the Orange section, ironically.

As you walk into the main foyer of the venue you are asked to don a variety of prop and costume gear and pose for a souvenir photo package, sold for an additional $20. You then make your way into the main hall where the bar/lounge area can be seen off to your left, and a vast array of souvenir counters is located at your right. All of the staff is dressed in period garb, including the wandering waitstaff with complimentary appetizers such as chicken puffs and mini ham and cheese finger sandwiches. I wish I could say I had the chance to try one, but I was overwhelmed by the merchandise and atmosphere. Towards the back of the souvenir counters there is a prominent face painting area where parents may purchase interactive packages for just $20. This nominal fee provided a face painting session, pirate hat and additional gear, and guarantees interaction on stage and in the Pirate's act, itself. The show is inherently interactive for the audience, but this is an especially nice way to recognize your child on their birthday, and have them be a tangible part of the show.

No sooner had I grabbed my souvenirs for family who could not attend, then we were called into the bar/lounge area for a mini show and introduction to our color-coded pirates. The basic background of the tale we were about to watch was revealed and the captured Gypsy, who turns out to be an integral part of the 'dragon twist' of the new plot, performs some breathtaking aerial acrobatics just feet from the crowd's agape faces. Guests are then marched, behind their pirate, into the main arena and seated stadium style at their tables. The arena itself houses an 18th century Spanish galleon ship replica of 46 ft, with 40 ft masts, anchored in a 250k gallon lagoon.

Guests have their choice of bottomless beverage, (vegetable) soup or garden salad with ranch, a half chicken with rice and vegetables or ham and potatoes, and a brownie a-la-mode dessert with cup of coffee, for fare. While the portions were generous, and I could not clear my entire plate, the half chicken I had chosen was a bit dried out and tough. I can only imagine the logistics of personally serving 150 guests a timed buffet style meal, but found this a little disappointing. All other elements of the food was spot on in texture and temperature, and quite delicious. I get the impression food options are subject to change with the season or show, as the online menu included apple crisp, rather than a brownie; so do check with your local venue ahead of time to be sure. A steak entree upgrade can also be added on to your initial ticket price, if desired.

So, enough about the food, because I truly believe you get your money's worth in the experience that is Pirate's Dinner Adventure. I do not have a reference for previous show, but the new Rise of the Sea Dragon program is entirely interactive and impressively engaging. That is to say I suspect I could visit several nights in one week and always find a new feast for my eyes. The cast is surprisingly animated, and the stage is rarely without multiple points of interest. Pirates interact and engage in the corner over here while the main story plays out in the middle of the stage, and side characters bicker in the foreground. The show is truly a 360 experience, with 6 unique 'hero' pirates to cheer for, each with wonderfully developed personalities.

 Before the show had even begun the pirates could be seen making the rounds along the floor engaging patrons, and interacting with the children. A few times I observed two pirates meet in passing and ad-lib some dialog with period vocabulary peppered in- it was thoroughly entertaining, and truly brought the experience to life. The story, a classic tale of good versus evil, tell the tale of a captured princess and her royal gypsy aboard evil Captain Pirate Sebastian's ship. With the intent to force the gypsy to summon the fabled Sea Dragon, guardian of a secret cove of immense pirate treasure, Sebastian raids the royal court and takes 150 captives (the audience). Throughout the 90 minute show it becomes apparent that love has blossomed between the captured princess and Sebastian's pirate son (Blue), and a mutiny is set in place leading to an electric battle sequence and the rise of an animatronic/puppetry dragon. (But not before the 'captives' are sworn in as pirates, themselves).

I wish I could accurately squeeze all of the points of amazement into this post, but my words are long winded, and my amazement is vast. This show quite literally had everything. From wonderfully developed characters, and the actors behind them, to constant crowd engagement and social commentary (such as quips on Taylor Swift and even Spongebob Squarepants). Sparks literally flew during sword fights, the center of the stage opened to reveal a trampoline for aerial stunts, pirates fought on a rotating ladder while the cast broke out in catchy song, and I found myself eagerly anticipating the 'Rise of the Dragon,' which did not disappoint! I must say, however, the show stopper of this evening was the talented acrobatic 'Gypsy,' who charmed the dragon to life with her breathtaking duo act, in which she literally spun 20+ feet above the stage suspended by her skull alone. I have seen such acrobatic aerial art on TV before, but to be so close to this beautiful and dangerous act was in no way short of mesmerizing.

Current show admission starts as low as $41 for adults, and $28 for children, including complimentary appetizers and a 3 course meal; well worth it for the evening of immersive entertainment! Weekdays offer evening shows alone, while patrons can enjoy an earlier show on the weekends, if planning a vacation of multiple excursions. Shows are constantly being refreshed, and the actors are subject to change, so the experience is always a new one, especially with 6 unique pirates and color coded seating sections. For now, unfortunately, the biggest drawback with Pirate's Dinner Adventure is that there are only 2 locations to visit, nationwide. So be sure to stop by when you are passing through; and, locals, make it a point to visit! Check back during Blog POP! School Rules for a special 2 pass giveaway to the Pirate's Orlando or Buena Park locations!

What Daughter Says: Expand your dinner horizons with an interactive dining experience and 3 course meal at Pirate's Dinner Adventure.

#SwifferEffect : How Everyday Actions Have A Big Impact

***Content or other value provided by our sponsor, Swiffer. All opinions contained there in are original content of Momma Told Me 2013.

Momma Told Me: I do it because I love you.

For the past several months I have seen some engaging print and digital media ads revolving around PandG's 'Everyday Effect' campaign. At first, it was hard to place exactly what this 'everyday effect' was. The brands prompts urged consumers to consider how the small choices, and acts, we do every day, impacts our lives and the lives of those around us. Do you place your sweetie's wet shoes by the heater every night to make sure they're nice and toasty the following morning? Do you stop by the grocery store on your way home to grab a few essentials for the elderly neighbor next door? Do you cook with organic ingredients, despite the rising cost, simply to keep your family happy and healthy? Do you check the fluid levels in your car before going on a long road trip? There are so many things we do every day, not because we enjoy them, but because the impact is so much greater than the effort. And that's the Everyday Effect.

As far as parents go, I had it pretty good. I won't lie, many of my awesome child entertaining skill come from things Momma or Pop did with me as a child. Small things that had a big impact. Like Pop's inspirational Sharpie notes on the inside seams of Rice Krispies wrappers, at lunchtime. Or how Momma would walk the long route to the mailbox, during the Summer, just so I could spend that little extra time outdoors. This Summer I'm watching 3 children for the month of July, and I make an effort everyday to make the everyday tasks all the more special. I cut the watermelon into fun shapes, I meticulously comb the floor for tripping hazards and forgotten toys, and I'm sure to always have an ice cold bottle of water waiting for each at the end of play time. The Everyday Effect is kids taking just a little bit longer to chew and enjoy their food, injury free and organized play time, and well hydrated kiddos for more adventure to follow. Even the simple things, we do without blinking, can have a longer impact than the immediate event.

Much like with children, The Everyday Effect is profound with the elderly. No matter how independent, the older we get, as humans, the more arduous even the simplest of tasks can seem. Just because we age, does not mean the dust thins, or the floors begin cleaning themselves! My father's parents have been married 56 years, and have always been the model of love and marriage for me. Not only did they wed before their twenties, but they have raised a beautiful family, and curated a marriage for others to envy. Whenever they visit, or I have the fortune to visit them, I marvel at the way they tackle their everyday tasks. My grandpa does more 'cheering' than cleaning, though he's never far behind my dutiful grandmother as she insists on dusting even the highest nick-knacks.  While both are very set in 'traditional' ways, we've introduced a few innovations over the years to help make their daily chores less arduous.

Much like the 90 year-old couple in the video below, my own grandmother finds substantial benefits in the improvement of Swiffer products over classic cleaning aids. I still recall the first time she threw out the old, heavy, mop and bucket for her Swiffer Wet Jet. We heard about it for weeks; suddenly, us 'youngins' simply had to have one too. The amount of time she saved, and the decrease in awkward bending and water bucket hauling gave her more energy to visit with friends and family, and the confidence to entertain more at home. In many ways, my grandparents are very much like Morty and Lee, below. Take a few minutes to watch and see how this inspiring couple is touched by the Everyday Effect.

What Everyday things do you do, that have a big impact on your family?

What Daughter Says: When life gets monotonous, consider the Everyday Effect.

#MonstersU Party Popcorn Mix Recipe + How I Rock My Summer

Momma Told Me: It's not MY job to spoil you. (***see, 'Ask your grandma!'


Well Summer is officially in full swing, and for our household that means it's finally time to put all my hours of preparation, and 'Pinning' to good use. You may recall I watch my niece after school throughout the district year; and have inherited 2 additional kiddos for the month of July. Mind you, I don't have my own kids I learned the joys of borrowing others' years ago, so wrangling a 3 year-old boy, and two 8-10 year old girls full time from 7AM to 4PM is a bit of a big bite off the cookie for me. Sabrina (10) and I are close enough to be sisters, and get into plenty of shenanigans when left alone, but finding activities to entertain both genders, let alone the age gap is a true challenge. It's a good thing I began preparing for Summer back in April, when I was only anticipating one child!

Almost through week 2 of our adventure, I've found a comfortable schedule that usually consists of allowing the younglings to 'wake up' to an hour or so of Family Netflix programming. I'm not big on letting electronics entertain kids, so we then  take a small late morning field trip then head home for, or pick up, lunch. By 1 the baby (3) is usually fighting to keep his eyes open, and goes down for a 45 -90 minute nap. This, my friends, is girl time. Glorious girl time. I picked up a bunch of clearance craft kits at Michaels for $4 or less, some $1 wooden picture frames to decorate for their Daddy's desk, some $1 paper masks (6 in a pack, and double sided), etc. It's amazing what you can do at a local Michaels craft store with a weekly coupon and some ingenuity and a few dollars. Once the little one is up, it's often time for an afternoon treat, and out to run around and burn off some energy before the parental units arrive. I love routine, and I feel the kids thrive on it, so this is how we operate.

If there's one thing I know about kids it's that they love messes and colors. The girls love anything that involves the mixing of colors, or 'food rainbows' as they call it; and Sabrina (10) would live by my side in the kitchen if she could. So, when I came across an amazing post from Hungry Harps blog, during a Social Fabric Juicy Juice campaign, I knew I had to pin it to make this Summer. If I haven't mentioned it before, I simply adore Social Fabric, and being a part of their blogger community. For those unfamiliar, SoFab is a collection of talented bloggers, across many generes, working with sponsored prompts to create valuable consumer input for brands, and engaging content for consumers. I try to make every post amazing, but it's my SoFab posts that really excite me and bring out my best. The Hungry Harps 'Monsters University Popcorn Mix' post is just a small example of pin-worthy, engaging, content created by the Awesomesauce bloggers at Social Fabric/ #cbias.

If you're a reader you already know about all the buzz surrounding the newest Monster's Inc. Pixar installment, in our household. We were lucky enough to catch an advance screening, making Sabrina the coolest cat in her school heading into Summer, and sport a myriad of merchandise around the house. (Though I've yet to acquire my Archie the Scare Pig plush from the nearby Disney outlet.) I think it's safe to say, Monster's University has topped Despicable Me, though still on our must see list, for this Summer's hottest film. So, when I began this little project today, I simply told the kids we were going to make 'Monster popcorn,' and began lining the ingredients up on our table. I had them at popcorn, but you better believe I won them for certain with food color and sprinkles.

When I was a kid Momma and I would make candied corn in the microwave. I recall, though she said it was the 'simplest' recipe she knew, it was a very arduous, and haphazard task. The Hungry Harps method is completely unique, and kid friendly. Children are sure to adore watching this multi-layered, multi-colored, snack some to life before their very eyes. Not only can it be used as a color education tool for the younger ones, but it would make a great party table feature at any Monster's University themed birthday parties this year! The original blogger had the intent of featuring Juicy Juice, branded with Pixar's Monster's University for promotional purposes this Summer; though all one really needs is some powdered, and regular, sugar, water, and food coloring. If you want to be extra cool, toss in a white chocolate drizzle with sprinkles, and some MandMs. Just watch your Mom status skyrocket as the kiddos dig in.

I don't, generally, like to feed the kids 'junk,' but I also make sure they balance out these treats with lots of real fruit and veggie snacks, and plenty of water throughout the day. When you cut out the sugar in juices and sodas it's easier to negotiate spoiling like this recipe (and boy do I spoil, because that's my job as non-parental family!) Keep in mind this wonderful recipe can be altered in colors and 'candy extras' to suit a multitude of themes, so be sure to pin this for your big Halloween party, and try not to eat the entire bowl before sharing with the kids. And, one last time, because I believe in giving mad props, where props are due, the concept and recipe originated at Hungry Harps, where you'll find a myriad of tastebud tickling recipes and family posts.

What Daughter Says: Bring a little fun to a dull Summer day with colored Monster's University inspired popcorn.

Monster's University Party Popcorn Mix

seen first on Hungry Harps family and food blog

****click here for printable party popcorn recipe

Ingredients:

* 3/4 C Juicy Juice (or water substitute)

* 1 C Granulated Sugar

* 2 TBS Powdered Sugar

* 8 C Kettle or White Popped Popcorn

* Food Coloring of desired colors

Directions:

1.) Ina saucepan, combine Juicy Juice/water and sugar. Bring to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly, until temperature reaches 238F. Add food coloring and turn of heat. (Note: you will need to split the mixture prior to coloring for multiple colors)

2.) Portion popcorn evenly in medium-large bowls, according to how many colors you wish to make. Pour sauce over popcorn in a light splash/drizzle manner. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and toss with a large wooden spoon. Toss until popcorn is evenly coated and all liquid had been absorbed.

3.) Evenly spread popcorn on a baking sheet covered in a sheet of wax paper or foil and allow to dry. Layer with desired candy (MandM's), and drizzle with melted white chocolate and sprinkles for added 'Mosnters' color.

Happiest 5k On The Planet: The Color Run Giveaway-A Race I Can Conquer

*** I will receive  one or more free admission codes in exchange for sharing my views on this event. No further compensation was provided. All images are copyright The Color Run 2013.

Momma Told Me: Live life in color.

I am not athletic. I'm not morbidly obese, but an individual can be at their target weight and still be physically unfit. I'll just fess up that this time last year I was huffing after climbing our condo stairs twice in 15 minutes. Don't get me wrong, I like walking' I'll walk for hours around the mall, or the local farm- but breaking a sprint, well, that would require an emergency. I'm the girl who participates in the 'sport' of bowling; where most league members supplement 2 hours of drinking with 15 minutes of actually throwing the ball. I've tried to be more active, but I'm simply more concerned with living a healthier lifestyle- and, for me, that meant cutting out all of the 'no-no' foods I used to consume daily. I walk on the treadmill several times a week, but I am far from the 14 minute mile I'd mastered in high school. And, if you'd have asked me a year ago if I'd ever consider participating in a 5k, I'd ask if that was in diamonds or gold; because this girl ain't running.

But it's amazing what living healthy, and having a supportive system of family and friends can do for one's confidence and vitality. I used to be that blogger who's online friends were constantly posting their training regimen and 'race' times. I'd lazily breeze past those posts, looking for something more, colorful. A good recipe, cute family pictures, the latest Pinterest FAIL attempt; anything that didn't involve hours in the blinding sun at the crack of dawn, and sweating. I just didn't see those posts as ever being 'me.' I couldn't identify with the competition, the perseverance, the determination, the neon socks, and the short shorts. That's because I didn't have confidence in myself. I was clearly lacking motivation because the voice in my head kept saying 'you're not good enough.' But who were they to talk?

Millions of people, every year, take to the streets to walk (or run) for a cause. Some are elderly, some have defeated cancer, others are pushed in a jogging stroller by a loving mom. We're conditioned, in grade school, to recoil at the 'k.' 'K' means hard work, it means sweat, it means public locker rooms and competition. The 'k's' are for the racers, those born with a passion for running; not the everyday Joe like me. But there are a few events rapidly growing in popularity that challenge the traditional notion of a 5k run. Races where nobody tracks the first to cross the finish line, runs that encourage the finish more than the time taken to get there, and colors, glorious colors. For years I've longingly followed various friends on 'mud runs,' one of the types of fun runs sweeping the less, athletic prone participants worldwide. Then I discovered The Color Run; dubbed the Happiest 5k On The Planet.

One look at a Color Run photo and you;ll instantly know what all the buzz is about. Participants, initially dressed in white, cross the 5k finish line sprayed in a rainbow of corn starch paint. Entrants age 0-99 are encouraged to run, roll, or walk through 3 miles of scenic territory on a 5k route, with 4 assigned color checkpoints along the way. The event originally began in hopes of inspiring both the athletically inclined and the athletically unmotivated to come together in a vibrant celebration of life. Participants walk for a variety of reasons; some walk to celebrate a personal health victory, some walk to honor a loved one, others walk to spend a day with family in friends. Many enter, and all leave united, in a cloud of glorious color. The Color Run is an untimed event, purely for fun, open to all ages, with a general admittance fee that covers operations costs and basic entry swag. Individuals may register solo, or teams of 4+ may be created with a discount of $5 per person. Multiple entry windows are open, with each zone (closer to the event) going up in cost; so it is important to register early! These events do and will sell out.

A portion of the proceeds from each race are donated to a charity local to the city the event is being held in, and there are over 100 events nationwide each year, including several international events. Merchandise is sold, for profit, though each runner's entry fee includes a packet of  'Color,' a race number, event t-shirt, sweat band, tattoos, and sponsor goodies. I wandered over to their website to check upcoming events on a whim, expecting to find an event in Los Angeles, and was surprised to find 9 races in California this year, including an October 19 race in the city next to our hometown, Ventura, CA. As you can see, above, the participants in attendance can range well over 19k, and costumes/accessories are encouraged. There is only one rule of The Color Run (ok, there are some basic safety rules, but it really is all about FUN); come in white, and leave plastered in color. Myself and 8 other participants (from 4-30) will be participating in the local, upcoming, event this October. Be sure to keep an eye out for our preparation posts, and the event recap.

Interested in participating in a Color Run near you? There are many  copycats, but only one official Color Run- visit The Color Run website today, to find an event near you and use discount code COLOR5OFF for a special $5 discount off each entrance purchased!

What Daughter Says: Add some extra color to your year and attend a Color Run near you.

One Momma Told Me reader will win 2 The Color Run entry passes to an open (not sold out) race, near them!