3 Alternative Turkey Day Celebrations: Tournaments, Turkey Bowling, Turkey Catapult

*** This is a Fashionista Events Opportunity. Any events, groups, or brand names mentioned below in image or text are not endorsed by Momma Told Me Blog 2013.

Momma Told Me: It's about the memories, not the bird.

Oh Turkey Day, the second holiday amidst the Eating season- after all, that's what it is, right? First you parade door to door asking for diabetes candy, or you are the unfortunate host leftover with a cauldron full of sweets that didn't get passed out. -And as innocent as 'fun size' candy sounds, does anyone ever really east just 1-2? But I digress, the glutton season is upon us; time to pack on those pounds we so carefully whittled away through Spring for the impending bathing suit season. Toss on that ugly Christmas sweater and tone your cheeks for the inevitable pinching from strange family members you've otherwise forgotten the past year. Yes, the holidays, they are magical, and so is Turkey Day.

Amazingly enough, it seems we, as a nation, continue to get restless with this 'patriotic' gorging of food, and more and more seek out alternative variations of the festivities each year. Whether you're looking to brine a turkey in soy sauce, or go entirely soy with a meat free spread, stuffing one's mouth full of tryptophan before the big game is a nationwide tradition. But, if you're aching to experience Thanksgiving like never before, I've put together a few alternative celebrations our family liked to participate in for your consideration.

1.) Thanksgiving Tournament: No, I'm not talking about that scrimmage game of tag football your family whips up just after Uncle Tom has had a bit too much cider- I'm talking about annual Turkey Day events. Believe it or not, several organizations take over numerous local venues to hold fun alternative holiday events open to the general public. In our town the event to participate in, or simply attend, is the Nardcore Turkey Toilet Bowl. Nardcore, being the punk rock subculture (non-sanctioned) bowling group that hosts 2 yearly tournaments and countless live music shows; the toilet being from nearby city Simi Valley (the land of toilets- don't ask). This Nardcore group bowls year-round at our local house (alley) and is known for amazing events that pack the alley beyond standing room and even outside to stage events. Above you see the commemorative statue and trophy for this absurdly themed event, in which no turkeys are actually harmed.

2.) Frozen Turkey Bowling: Not to be confused with the previous event, Turkey bowling is actually quite popular in a charity concept seen across the nation. Many schools and local organizations will offer a chance to throw a real frozen Butterball turkey at genuine bowling pins (often in a school gym, grocery store, or parking lot) in exchange for a fundraising donation. I had the chance to participate in a fun based turkey bowling event last year when a beloved house alley shut down just a week before the Turkey Day Holiday. Moments before the alley was to begin being torn down several frozen turkeys were passed out and hurled down the lanes in commemoration. Not sure there's a frozen turkey event near you? You'd be surprised how many are organized- or how easy it is to set one up for an organization you care about!

3.) Turkey Alternatives: While we're conditioned to crave this juicy bird all year, not everyone feels a shared passion for the carving and the eating of turkey. In fact, there's an ongoing debate in my family as to whether it's the turkey or the ham that makes this feast amazing. (Though it's hard to argue with a 48 hour slow smoked bird- deeeelicious!) That being said, The Bison Council is here to remind us all that we have other meat choices this Thanksgiving. Why not save a bird and savor some bison? Personally, bison has always been a delicacy for me, living in Southern California where I have the luxury of buying it fresh- I would jump for joy if a Bison roast appeared on our Thanksgiving table. Watch the video above to see how the pilgrims reacted when they were handed fresh bison for T-Day- it's hysterical!

What alternative Thanksgiving traditions do you partake in?

What Daughter Says: Isn't it time to shake up your Turkey Day with a new tradition?

Thor: The Dark World A Must See 2013 Film For Any Moviegoer @ThorMovies

*** I attended a press screening of Thor: The Dark World in order to facilitate this post. No other compensation was provided. All images below are copyright Disney Pictures 2013 and were provided as press materials.

I am not a big 'movie' person. That is to say that I enjoy movies, yes, but I rarely get swept up in all the hooplah of watching a series of trailers, marking my calendar, or hitting a venue opening weekend. My friends and family find me the exception, as they all seem quite content swapping Hollywood brush in tales and sharing celebrity dreams. When I go to a movie theater I am a tough sell- it takes a bit of intrigue to lure me into a first run showing. I don't happily shell out $12 plus a head for a two hour video escape that I know I'll be able to buy much cheaper in 3 months. Why am I sharing this? Because on Monday November 4, 2013, I was quite literally blown away.

This skeptical, often begrudged, movie goer walked out of a theater not only jaw agape and shouting expletives (I do believe "That was ----ing awesome!" came out of my mouth more than twice), but turned to Jay and asked when we could go see it again. I know, I know, I'm as shocked as you likely are- and to be raving about what will most certainly be a blockbuster, on fan base alone, is far from my 'typical' film pick. But here I am to write and tell you that Thor: The Dark World is by far one of the top films I have invested time in, on or off the big screen, in years. Not only will I be shelling out my hard earned cash to see it again, likely a few more times, but I heartily endorse taking the entire family (5+, due to some intense villains and action scenes).

Surprisingly Thor: The Dark World, generally considered a 'niche' film with it's strong Marvel ties and The Avengers franchise, hits multiple thematic categories with seamless balance. Not only are the graphics and computer generated scene-scapes visually stunning, but the 2 hour film is peppered with hilarious jokes that stand effective whether a franchise fan or not. The Dark World also further develops the first film's romance between it's two main characters, Thor and Jane (am I the only one who sees 'Jane' as a character name tongue in cheek alongside the Tarzan like Norse God?) That's right, women will swoon at Chris Hemsworth and his honest chemistry with the quirky and candid Jane, played by Natalie Portman.

I firmly believe in not giving away a film's details, and personally enjoy movies best when I know little to nothing about the plot, so I will spare you of any and all spoilers. I do, however have some interesting notes on the film as a whole;

See The First Film First: While I'm sure you could watch this movie and find it worth admission, without having seen Thor (2011), your experience will be highly enhanced having viewed the first. There simply are too many plot tie ins and inside joke, gems, that wouldn't be properly appreciated without. That being said, I do not feel you need to have seen any other Marvel films for reference.

Check Your Marvel And Norse Knowledge At The Box Office: While a Marvel fanboy/girl will certainly be tickled by the always anticipated Stan Lee guest appearance, and Avenger call outs, don't go into The Dark World expecting sincere continuity to any portion of the Thor comic world. Now officially locked into 3 films, the modern Disney Thor films should be enjoyed as a stand alone- watch them for the entertaining escape they are and don't try to pick anything apart; it will only detract from the experience. That especially goes for any Norse history buffs- this is not your college professor's Asgard, accept it now.

This Is a Disney Film, That Means Lucas Rights: This was, perhaps, one of the oddest elements of watching this film. It seemed I was constantly reminded that Disney now owned Star Wars rights, and boy was it ever evident; from the Lucas soundtrack to the modernized fight scenes with the main protagonist Malekith and his Dark Elves. I was awestruck by the visually intense fight scenes, that clearly echoed big box office space fights, having me turn and ask Jay multiple times, "Are we watching Star Wars?" Of course, it doesn't help these inklings that Star Wars Queen herself, Natalie Portman is the leading heroine- stay tuned for a true geek-out inside joke halfway through the film when our hero and protagonist fight for the first time!

If You Go To The Theater To Escape, Run To See This Film: Rarely do I feel a film's sequel exceeds the quality of it's first in the series. In Thor: The Dark World's case, Thor (2011) seems like more of a teaser trailer for the 'good stuff'. Thanks to the first film, most of the character development was already set in place and this movie was free to move a lot faster. How fast? When the final credits had rolled I felt excited, overwhelmed, and a bit of longing. How Disney had crammed so much action, drama, comedy, romance, and astounding visual effects into a 2 hour space, I still can't figure out. This film had it all, and is truly a great example of taking it's viewers on a transforming journey with beautifully crafted characters. I cannot stress enough- no matter what type of film you prefer, watch the first film and go see this second!

Stay Till The Very End: It's no secret Marvel crams Easter eggs into the ending credits. This film has two; the first a teaser for the upcoming Marvel film franchise, crossover. The second is insignificant (to the overall plot) but extremely satisfying wrap to the second film. Sit through the end credits crawl and you won't be disappointed.

The Final Word: It's hard to escape the many distinct nods to Star Wars franchise success, from action sequences to background development and music- any geek will surely adore this film. More importantly for me to convey is the value of this film to those not currently fans of the Marvel franchise. It's hard not to classify Thor as a superhero, thus Thor: The Dark World a Superhero Movie, but I'd wage a good argument that every paying moviegoer will walk out satisfied on multiple levels. Go for the all-star cast, for the timeless romance, for the non-stop comedy (hard to believe it could be done in an action flick without being cheesy, right?), for the cameos, for the mind-blowing 3D and intense fight scenes, for the quirky and colorful characters, and for the battle between good and evil, and go for money well spent on a 2 hour escape. After all, isn't that really what we hope for when we go to the cinema?

Catch Thor: The Dark World in theaters worldwide November 8, 2013

Music Resonates With Love, A Holiday Campaign To Pair Breakthroughs With Romance

*** This is a Fashionista Events Opportunity.

Momma Told Me: You create the soundtrack of your life.

You don't have to be a romantic or a dreamer to agree that music and love are the perfect marriage. There's a reason studios invest billions in composers and song rights for films; music has a way of attaching itself to every single sense, wrapping a single moment into a personal reel we are destined to reminisce for the rest of our lives. And a song doesn't even have to be about love to have that intense personal connection, it's our own life events that latch on to the most unexpected tunes and put that warm tingle in our hearts. Every time I hear 93 Million Miles by Jason Mraz I'm reminded of the love my mother has for me and that I can always "come back home," no matter where this life takes me. And whenever Goo Goo Dolls Slide hits the radio a smile washes over my face as I'm transported back to the rush of first love and teenage dreams. Leonard Cohen's I'm Your Man will forever remain a song of romance in my life, and an unexpected ballad for dedicated love, while Zip-A-De-Doo-Dah forever ignites a grin and the memory of dancing through our tiny condo alongside my father as a young girl

With the holidays approaching everyone is bound to begin talking about love. The love of a newly engaged couple, or the love of a son returned from serving his country, home for the holidays. But the simple truth is, every day is a day to appreciate the love and relationships we are given. I am reminded daily by a tune here or there that solicits these warm and fuzzy thoughts for those come, gone, and still in my life.

Reclaiming it's head as one of the world's leaders in diamond and custom jewelry sales is Zales, set to launch it's new Let Love Shine TV campaign this holiday season. But these are not your ordinary ads, they are the chance for some very talented  breakthrough musicians to connect with a whole new audience. I didn't realize, but Zales helped launch The Black Keys to fame after featuring their music for a holiday TV spot in 2010. Alabama Shakes and Various Cruelties also enjoyed great success after a beneficial campaign with this jewelry great.

Zales’ 2013 holiday campaign will feature the talented artists band Lord Huron and their track ‘Ends of the Earth,’ as well as several musical delights for viewers to discover. This creative campaign seamlessly blends the romantic and sometimes melancholy work of modern breakthrough artists with equally modern love stories, encouraging the audience to “Let Love Shine” and consider Zales when gifting from the heart. At the end of this post you'll get a sneak peek at the first spot in this holiday campaign; entitled “Balloons.” Portraying the simplicity of modern love, this spot features the new "Celebration" bridal collection and highlights Zales' commitment to industry knowledge and standards.

Do you have a special song that reminds you of a loved one or special memory?

What Daughter Says: Mix tapes may be obsolete but romance and music will always flirt. Sometimes the most unexpected scents and sounds can ignite a treasured memory, or help create a new one.

Monsters University on Blu-Ray Scares Up Family Fun And Colorful Eats! #Shop

Momma Told Me: Sometimes you just have to scare up a little fun.

As a child of the mid 80s, my childhood was marked with some monstrous (pun intended) achievements in family entertainment. Not only did I watch the Atari blossom into the NES, and later real 3D gaming; but this new digital technology soon spilled over into the 1995 Pixar release of Toy Story. Children's films would never be the same again. Flat 2D animation, with a limited palette of colors became almost touchable, shaded, characters bursting from a limitless rainbow of hues. When Monsters Inc. hit theaters in 2001, I was more of a teen, than a child, but still fell in love with the blue 'kitty' and one-eyed grouch, Mike Wazowski. Movie-goers of all ages found a sense of nostalgia in the heartwarming story, brought to life among a riot of color and carefully composed soundboard. Monsters Inc. was an instant classic in any Disney movie library, young or old.

When rumors of a Monsters Inc. sequel began to surface in 2005, fans eagerly awaited an official announcement, they would not see until 2010, then later announced in 2001 as the now known prequel, Monsters University. I'll admit, I was skeptical about Pixar transforming our beloved characters into awkward college students, but remained positive through 2 years of "When's the new Monster's Inc movie coming out?" As concept art and teaser trailers began to leak hardcore Pixar fans, such as our family, gave in to the hype. We'd speculate on the plot, create our own new monsters to star in the film, and soon had an official countdown on the calendar for it's theatrical release. Needless to say, we attended a screening with our arms full of Monster's U merchandise, and our faces painted like Sulley. Our entire family walked out of the theater head over heels with the franchise again; and we soon found ourselves awaiting a new date- the Blu-Ray/DVD release!

While most families are eagerly awaiting the first big holiday of the fall, Halloween, Pixar brilliantly took us all back to #ScarEdu with the smart timing of it's blockbuster Monster's University on an exclusive Blu-Ray + DVD bundle pack, October 29, 2013, sold exclusively at Walmart. When Sabrina (11) had announced she was tired of trick or treating, and did not want to participate this year; she suggested we buy Monster's University and have a mini-party with her neighborhood friends. Since I estimated the costs would be equal to outfitting her in a costume, we headed to Walmart early afternoon, on October 29, and made a beeline for the media/entertainment department. Monsters U was everywhere in the form of DVDs and merchandise, but there was one hole in the display that caught my eye. As Sabrina excitedly clutched her Blu-Ray copy I spotted an exclusive Monster's University 2 Disc Blu-Ray + DVD + InfINity Combo pack, the last on the shelf. With a special introductory price less than $30, taking this amazing bundle home was a no-brainer.

Finding inspiration for our Monster's U shindig came natural; I used all of the beautiful colors and unique monsters we'd seen in the theater to inspire me to set up a fun and affordable spread. While the girls played with the bonus disc Story School and Scare Games interactive features, I whipped up some adorably scary snacks. I balanced sweet with healthy, setting out some small bowls of dried kiwi, mango, and pineapple alongside family favorites like color sorted M and Ms and blueberry yogurt pretzels. For actual 'food' I served the girls 'Squishy' Squibbles Eye Wraps made from a ranch cream cheese base, rolled in tortillas with olives, thin sliced ham, and pimentos. I also whipped up some eerily adorable Mike Wazowski wedge salads with a slice of mozzarella and olive for the classic 'eye'. But our spread wasn't complete- there were the mom friendly Sulley Mini Blackberry Scare Pies, and even an Eta Hiss Hiss Sorority inspired smoothie!

I don't always make taking a movie home a big event, but Monster's U quickly turned into one- Once I'd laid the table full of colorful, and deliciously scary snacks, the girls began to find their own inspiration. Sabrina already has a closet full of branded merchandise waiting for Christmas; but we couldn't help but bring home a Giant Sulley Plush from our Walmart trip. I thought he'd be the star of the viewing, but kids live in a world of their own, and they quickly begged for sharpies to turn our balloons into characters from the movie. As they sat 3 feet from the TV screen (I know, I know), they traced their favorite characters' features like it was their job. Of course, Monsters U had hundreds of unique characters on the #ScareEdu campus, so finding a 'favorite' character was often short-lived, as the next scene presented more options.

When our Monster's University Blu-Ray 'screening' ended there was a call for an encore showing of Monster's Inc, which we, of course, had on hand. While we swapped out DVD's we had a conversation about how important true friendships were, and that Mike and Sulley had become unlikely friends, despite their differences. It was great to see young girls taking about the importance of social acceptance and building friendships, but I was especially grateful to see that Monster's University had provided an entire day of imagination and fun on top of it. If your little monsters are as enamored with this franchise as ours, you simply have to add the Walmart 2 Disc Blu-Ray + DVD + InfINity Combo pack to your library. Not only does the Blu-Ray Bonus Disc offer hours of entertainment, but the Disney InfINity character opens up an entirely new world of exploration for your XBOX and Wii InfINity games. And be sure to stop by the toy department while you're there, Walmart has dozens of exclusive toys and merchandise you won't find anywhere else!

Are you planning on picking up the new Monster's University DVD? Do you have a new favorite character? Psssst, mine's Archie the Scare Pig!

What Daughter Says: Grab the exclusive Monster's University Blu-Ray + DVD + InfINity bundle before they're all gone, for exclusive cheers and scares.

Experience Sugar Like Never Before With @SucreNewOrleans Macaron Giveaway~ 11/18

*** I received a 15 PC Signature Macaron Collection from Sucre for the purposes of this feature. No further compensation was provided. All photos contained below are property of Momma Told Me Blog 2013.

Momma Told Me: It's so much more than sugar!

I love sugar, by any name; so it's not mystery why I was instantly captivated by the elegant confectionery prowess of New Orleans native, Sucre.

When I was a child I was surrounded by sweets; my father worked, and still does, as a technician for frozen soft serve machines, and Momma was always happy to indulge my growing taste buds with culinary delicacies from around the world. Two regions I was especially accustomed to were the confections of France and Germany. With a portion of my family raising multiple generations just outside the French Quarter in Lousiana, and an entire half of my family recently immigrated from Germany, I was a well cultured child. Calling 'Hershey's' chocolate was a common joke in our household; though we were far from snobs, we merely recognized the finite attributes of artisanal sweets. However, whether you have a refined palette, or simply like to snack on frozen Reese's around midnight, you're sure to instantly see the mouth-watering skills put forth in Sucre's Sweet Boutique.

I could rattle off this New Orleans native's award winning triumphs, but all it really takes to spot the difference is a simple click on over to their colorful web store. Macarons, gourmet drinking chocolate, artisanal truffles and gallery worthy eclairs are just some of the astounding finds you'll ponder on the front page alone. Most impressively, to me, is the way in which Sucre captivates all of one's senses from a mere computer screen; I can hardly imagine maintaining self control in one of their brick and mortar shops. From the riot of color and texture to the specialty flavor innovations and hand crafted confections, this is not your grandma's chocolate stash! From modernly edgy to classically refined, the distinguished chocolatiers and confectioners of Sucre have a treat to delight any palette, and I had the privilege of sampling their skill in the form of one of their most popular gifts; the Signature Macaron Collection.

Shipped fresh, and hand packed, nationwide in a gift ready presentation box, the 15 PC Signature Macaron Collection features 8 of Sucre's most popular Macaron varieties. Almond, chocolate, bananas foster, strawberry, hazelnut, pistachio, pecan, and salted caramel present themselves, each with a unique blend of colors and accents. When I first sampled a Sucre Macaron it was so fresh and soft it crumbled playfully beneath my teeth. The flaky outer pastries sandwiched an indulgent mousseline peppered with real bits of pecan; an instant favorite. It pained me to share even one of these colorful treats, as I offered an outstretched hand to discerning palettes of Jay and my father. While I could have easily consumed the entire box in one sitting, such a delicacy should be admired and shared in equal indulgence. (Should I mention how tickled I would be to find another box beneath my tree this holiday season?)

 As a relative of New Orleans locals, I have enjoyed many macarons through the years, but I was entirely unprepared for the skilful composition and freshness of Sucre's product. While we all found our favorites in the Signature 15 PC collection, not a single macaroon went without admiration. Salted Caramel was my overall highlight, with fleur de sel accents and a creamy mousseline, though Jay enjoyed the light, fluffy, Strawberry macaroon with playfully whipped cream center. I was a bit bummed I didn't get to sample the Chocolate one, with it's intense dark cocoa hue (as it was the odd macaroon out in the 15PC count), but my Pop quickly declared it his personal favorite.

While I have a hard time controlling my temptations while browsing the Sucre store, I hope to experience many new delicacies through future orders. I know I will certainly be ordering a few of their specialties for gifts this coming holiday season!

What Daughter Says: Experience the refined indulgence that is Sucre artisan confections and reignite your love affair with sugar.

One Momma Told Me reader will win their own 15 PC Signature Macaron Collection from Sucre!

So You Want To Do A Fun Run: After @TheColorRun Race

**** This post is not sponsored. Our team, The Color Jungle, paid for admission to the following event. All photos contained below are copyright Momma Told Me Blog 2013.

Momma Told Me: Sometimes life get's messy, and that's what truly makes it beautiful.

So you've conquered your first fun run, The Color Run, and come out looking like you survived an explosion in a Gummy Bear factory. You round the corner, and your heart drops as you realize there are no more color stations to run through, just one final arch, the Finish Line.

As acurate as you may want your chronicling of the occasion to be, I suggest you hold your triumphant photos for the other side. 'Finish Line' with be written on either side of that colorful arch, and the remaining participants will appreciate you taking your goofy photos in the holding bay on the other side; rather than in the middle of an active race. And, while you have those gorgeous, 'official' participant bibs on, you will have no way of ever knowing what place you actually finished- after all, it's not a 'race,' it's an experience.

As you cough up those last specks of colored corn starch, and reach for the tissues stashed in your teammates backpack (expect plenty of colorful surprises there), a sort of high washes over you. I expected to be more proud that I had participated in a 5k (my second in a month, the first being a charity walk); I was more excited about soaking in the surroundings. The atmosphere was electric, our event filling an entire fairgrounds- a stage just behind us blasting energetic music, a DJ screaming notes of encouragement. Take time to stop here and snap plenty of photos of you and your team. Take silly photos, carry one-another, flash peace signs, whatever you do- it's all smiles. If there's ever a time in life when you can simply go wild and act like a kid again, it's standing there on that color drenched pavement, a human canvas.

Before I'd participated in my first Color Run I was very unsure of how things would play out. As part of the newbies in our start section, we bespeckled each other with our colored corn starch packets long before the race even started. Somewhere along the line we'd heard an announcer tell us those packets were for the 'after party'- I still stand by my belief it was more fun to 'pre-color' our team at the Start Line. And I still wish that I'd had the opportunity to buy an additional packet or two when registering.

In any case, once you've crossed the finish line, and taken your photos, there is a mosh pit before a giant stage, considered the 'after party'. Little kids will be sitting on parents heads, and the entire crowd will be pulsing up and down to the beat of the electric music. At various intervals a countdown will be heard, and that's when you should grab your camera- the entire crowd will throw up their color and a beautiful scene of color clouds will erupt over the rainbow participants. Once you've snapped your pics make your way into the heart of the crowd and prepare for the next countdown; after all, you should experience this from inside the group too, right?

By the time you tote yourself back to the car you'll be staring at the towels you responsibly brought, a little crestfallen at the notion of wiping that war paint off. I couldn't bring myself to do so just yet, so we covered the upholstery and caravan-ed  our group back to our hometown (the next town over, and away from the crowds and street blocks), where we walked into a family diner, packed on a late Saturday afternoon. We'd thought for sure we'd be kicked out on first sight, but we were welcomed as more of curiosities. Every employee had to stop by our wide faced booth and ask us about the event, and tell us how much fun it must have been. Note: Us ladies had made a beeline for the restroom to clean out hands- while the preliminary color will come off, expect your palms to be dyed dark green to black even after a good rinse.

When Jay and I got home we snapped a few more photos, for posterity's sake. I already knew I wanted to take one and make it into a photo canvas (you'll see how that came out later). The top photo is our photos in complete race gear, the bottom, with our top layer of clothing removed. I'm sharing this particular set of photos to illustrate the aftermath of the event. Note, any and all clothes below are subject to coloring, especially if you sweat. The color seeped right through my official t-shirt and even through the two layers beneath. If you're wearing headbands, goggles, glasses, wristbands, etc, expect some deviation int he form of 'clear patches'. If you'd like to preserve the color on your clothing articles, the event suggests you spray them in vinegar and iron them. And, from personal experience, if you're looking to remove the color from your skin in one wash, grab a cheap bar of 'Lava' (comes in a red package, 2 bar packs with bar soap at your local grocer) soap. This green pumice like soap is oddly soothing as you scrub the color off with no trouble at all!

What Daughter Says: There are a lot of ways in life to get messy- relive the childhood joy of finger painting with a fun run!