Pacific Essentials

Malibu Getty Villa! an LA must!

2010-06-28T19:34:00.000-07:00

I'm a bit partial to Malibu. As I know it now, you enter Malibu from mountains or PCH Blvd which goes along the ocean. At all times, you'll curve thorough and drive along beautiful mountain views and the Pacific along amazing surfing. It's so diverse. I simply heart Malibu and I know my hubby does too which makes it an easy escape for most weekends.

Today I spent the day with Kyra and her sweet BFF at Malibu's Getty Villa Museum. What a treat. First of all, their company is something I cherish every moment I spend with them.

They loved every part of this stunning museum. Its grounds, art, gardens and paintings "everything" is truly amazing and timeless.

Not to mention the ocean breeze since it's right off PCH Blvd which goes along the ocean.

A must for anyone.

1 year Anniversary and Father's Day

2010-05-24T14:31:00.001-07:00

Hi all!

It's been wicked long since i've blogged. I'm so sorry, I've actually missed it.

With Father's day coming up and while celebrating our Pacific Essentials family 1 year anniversary; I thought it would be appropriate to blog. Though we don't have any new items in our collection to reveal, we do have some oldies and goodies.

I would like to start and share some of my favorite Father's Day gifts I'll be picking for my handsome hubby Jerry! In writing this, I'm hoping he doesn't read the blog before Father's Day, it'd ruin the suprises..... but with that said I'll take my chances. hehe.

Jerry will be the lucky recipient of our Sterling Silver personalized ring. Sadly, he lost his wedding ring at the beach last summer and we have not replaced it. He's been without it for a while and it's driving him bonkers. Thankfully with Father's Day coming up, I can be practical and gift him something he needs and wants from our Pacific Essentials Collection.

Jerry will also receive fun stationary from Erin Condren's man collection. Jerry is so cute, he loves planners and note writing. Since he's often at his desk at work, on behalf of Kyra he will receive an Erin Condren deskpad, I've never seen anything like it before until I saw them here. I have one and LOOOOOVE it. The fun of it is, you choose the dads fave sports teams and colors, you add a photo and his deskpad will be specially custom for the special papa in your life. Super fun!

Lastly, Jerry loves a GOOD cigar. By good I mean a GREAT one. Well, since I won't contribute to that habit, I'll get something close to it, a beautiful Customizable Brass Lighter, not only is it affordable and classy but i love its name, take a peek.

I'd have to say, that's it for him on his special day. I'm sure he will milk it and he should; he's an amazing dad.

You will hear from me more often. I do hope you have a fabulous Memorial Day weekend.

Tons of love to you all! xo

karina

Kids for Water!

2010-03-02T10:46:00.000-08:00

It's amazing how kids love to orchestrate Lemonade stands. Making the signs and lemonade, finding a jar for money and shout for potential customers.

Well after many months of begging for one, Kyra finally got one! We've done this before clearly, but I just couldn't find it in myself to commit to help her, because yes, who does most of the work? us parents. Any who, Kyra wanted one so much she was willing to give her earnings to a charity. After she said that; I could no longer procrastinate. I had to not only applaud her, but to honor her request and carry on with this Lemonade Stand request of hers.

She and I spoke about the many charities out there that do amazing things to helps others. Kyra being 8 really wanted to know where the money would go, I thought well ME TOO. That makes sense.

The first charity that came to mind was The Samburu Project, a charity our sweet friend Kristen has committed her time to.

In Samburu Kenya, women walk up to twelve miles looking for water for their children, many time returning with nothing.

After chatting with Kristen, she gave us simple formulas of where the money goes. I have to say, the kids and adults loved making sense of what every dollar means for this charity.

These are some examples of how a little bit goes a long way in Samburu.

$13 – Water for one person for life
$26- Water for two for life
$130 – Water for ten people for life
$260 – Water for twenty people for life
$1300 – Water for one hundred people for life

What started as a fun lemonade stand grew into an amazing collaborative effort from friends and family for the sake of water, go figure.

We sold candy, nuts, popcorn and dear friends donated goods for sale!

Kyra's plead for a lemonade stand was not only a success but an amazing lesson of giving back. With the helps of your village even the little ones can make a difference.

To donate go to Donate or check out their fun printed shirts! Remember, just $13 can give water to one person for LIFE!

Memories by Carolreach.com

2010-02-04T12:52:00.000-08:00

I'm a bit embarrrassed to say, but last fall was the first time we had family pictures taken, by a professional photographer that is. I'm quite ashamed it took until Kyra was 8 to get them done, but thankfully we did it.

The best part was finding the perfect photographer Carol Reach. I'm such a big fan of photography, so I knew it had to be the perfect person-photographer for this special moment and time. Not only is Carol amazingly sweet and pretty, but crazy talented. Working with her is so easy and fun. The whole shoot went so smooth while Jerry made us laugh with his usual slapstick jokes which always lightens up the mood and lifts the spirit.

Funny how things happen, after much excitement and 8 years of delay, we arrive at Carol's to shoot and of course, I get an allergy reaction to something, don't know what from but it happened 30 minutes before our shoot time. My eyes swell up, they feel itchy and uncomfortable. I was so bummed. During the shoot, I was so uncomfortable and sad for this minor inconvenience, I guess I wanted it to be a perfect day, everyone looking and feeling great.

The moral of the story is Carol's talent. She managed to take advantage of any angle and make sure I didn't look as bad as I felt. A bit of improvisation and touching up is what it took.

I specially love the head shots she took of Kyra! She shot those while I took a potty break. It was all Kyra and Carol. Carol's sweet ability to connect with kids. I'm sure the fact that she has two little boys has something to do with her ability to make kids at ease and comfortable. Kyra adores her!

Alot of Pacific Essentials photography was done by Carol which is why I wanted to blog about her. Her talent and quality of work extend outside just family photography. Take a peek at her website, she's a gem.

Thanks Carol! We LOOOOVE our family photos!

karina

Fun and resourceful Mommy blog at citymommy.com

2010-01-23T13:57:00.000-08:00

I'm not really sure how I came across this fun mommy site but I love it.

Citymommy.com is a close-knit community oriented and resourceful site for mommies like me and you.

What I love is the discussions from which you can take part in, or post to. It can be anything from researching daycares, to family outings, someone asking your opinion about a car seat or so on. All this you can find and post from the message board. What I specially love is the Directory. There you can find various business to choose from. This can be jewelry, kids clothing, furniture, local food delivery, amusement parks, local massage and skincare musts and so on. Here I have found amazing and fun resources such as my last post My Kids Art on Canvas.

Make sure to sign on and choose your city for YOUR local finds!

Have fun!!! I hope you like City Mommy as much as I do!

karina

Your kids art on Canvas!

2010-01-15T17:23:00.000-08:00

If you're anything like me you'll consider your kids artwork he or she made at school a Van Gogh work of art, I know I do. Thank goodness for Kyra's school Young at Art program. There she is taught and able to create beautiful art while learning about an amazing artist and their form of art, what a gift.

From these artful final projects she brings home, I've managed to frame for her and her friends to enjoy in her room. Other pieces hang in the refrigerator and some filed away.

With that said, I had to share another fun option I came across for those other pieces hanging around your house. My Kids Art on Canvas transforms your kids art work into beautiful canvas. What a great way to display your kids artwork in another room while creating a classier but fun look.

Take a peek! This may be the solution for that empty wall in your house that's missing that fun little something something!

Have fun!

karina

The health of our skin-Part 3 "Exercise"

2010-01-06T19:08:00.000-08:00

So we've talked a bit about diet and exfoliation, now let's go on to exercise.

I know I know, it takes work just typing it and reading it. Exercise~working out comes easy for some, VERY hard for others. I'd have to say I'm somewhere in the middle. It's all about what my body and spirit needs.

I do have to say, I NEED IT, for my health and sanity. Whether it's a speed walking session with a girlfriend, a nice 3-6 mile run with fun tunes to keep me moving, stairs long enough to get my heart pumping, yoga or a great hike, it's all good. Find the thing you'll stick with and like, enjoy it and when you get bored, change it up. What's important is, get moving. That wonderful blood circulation is what's key to the health of your skin and more importantly, your spirit.

It's no secret exercise has crucial benefits for the entire body, remember our skin is the largest organ of our body, so the benefits can be enormous. One of the biggest benefits is the increased circulation and delivery of nutrients to the skin cells, rushing away potentially damaging toxins. Another benefit from exercising is the optimum benefit for making collagen, the support fibers that help keep wrinkles and lines away. All in all, the ones that exercise have a better complexion overall (unless you have those great genes that make your jaw drop).

If acne is the issue, it's better controlled with ongoing exercise, if it's occasional breakouts they are less severe, if it's dry skin, not so much after a good workout. At the end of the day, exercise is essential. Not only to our health over all, but to our spirit.

Find your exercise of choice and enjoy~It's so worth it!

Cheers to a healthy 2010

The health of our skin-Part 2 "Exfoliation"

2009-12-11T10:16:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading a book on Beauty, it was interesting to say the least. There are SO many of these books and can only imagine how confusing the various and at times conflicting suggestions, opinions and reviews can be for a beauty consumer. One of the chapters from this book was in regards to exfoliation, face and body. The author suggested that although it may feel and smell good, it's not terribly necessary. I was shocked....I couldn't believe it. I know I'm partial because I'm in the business of lotions, potions and beauty treatments but come'on, our skin NEEDS it. "Get rid of the old; expose the new".

If you're like me, you'll want to get rid of layers of glued dead dullish greyish and wrinkly skin piled up on your face and body. Not to mention the rough feel of it, so not sexy. And when it comes to applying makeup, best on smooth skin. I really could go on but how else will you rid of the dead skin you shed if not by physical exfoliation. A scrub of some kind. The author did suggest a body loofa which is great, but certainly not the best and only exfoliation solution.

So if you don't mind, let's start at the beginning of "exfoliation" in beauty terms.

Exfoliation is not a new concept or just a buzzword, it dates back to ancient Egyptian kings and queens who used alabaster and pumice to smooth and soften their skin. In 1960 the introduction of mechanical exfoliators came along but resulted in pulled, torn, stretched, abraded and traumatized skin that was covered with microlesions.

During the 80s, a more innovative generation influenced our industry—chemical exfoliators, which use ingredients like glycolic, alpha and lactic acids. Sadly, these methods not carefully performed not only attacked the dead layers, but also dried out new live cells, making skin more susceptible to UV light and environmental damage.

Exfoliation means the removal of surface dead skin cells, but the goal of the treatment is to clear cellular debris from the surface without damaging the healthy cells underneath. That's as simple as I can explain and with that said it's a fine art to determine what is too much or too little FOR YOU.

Keep in mind, every day the skin is attacked by many damaging influences. Some are external, such as sun and air pollution. Others are natural influences, such as aging, fatigue and gravity, or health-related causes, such as diet and stress. From this the skin sheds about 80,000 cells a day. These dead skin cells, left on the surface, slow down healthy cell renewal, increase the depth of wrinkles and create a dull, sluggish aged look. Who wants that?

The simple act of exfoliation can hinder the effects of all of these influences on the skin by removing damaged cells on the surface, and allow new live cells to replace the old. Because exfoliation helps to speed cell regeneration, the more you effectively exfoliate, the younger the skin looks and the better your skin care products can penetrate deeply.

With all that fine beauty terminology said and depending on your external-internal influences and sensitivities, exfoliation is a must! Consult with your local esthetician and massage therapist.

If you are a California local visit Trilogy Spa book your Facial and your Body Scrub, mention Karina's blog and you'll get 10% your service. While you're there make sure to use their Dry sauna and bathe or shower under their waterfall shower to further soften yucky dead skin. Trilogy Spas body scrubs are scrumptious, you're skin will feel like butter!

For home maintenance, try our yummy body scrubs with amazing anti-aging, healing and moisturizing ingredients.

Whether you choose these great treatments or something else, scrub away. I didn't mention the circulatory benefits! Don't get me started again;)

Happy scrubbing!

The health of our skin-Part 1 "diet"

2009-11-02T12:04:00.000-08:00

Winter is upon us, and if you're like me, my skin will suffer a bit. It'll get dry and cold, my skin will lack moisture and glow, I'll look dehydrated, fine lines will be more apparent, my makeup won't go on as smooth and the list goes on. I know, it sounds a bit dramatic, but this holds true for me and many of my friends and family. One more reason the skin will lack a healthy glow is what's going on internally. Our skin is the finger print of what is going on inside our body. Skin conditions from psoriasis, acne, aging, inflammation and the list goes on are all manifestations of your body's nutritional needs.

Recent research has shown that the skin reacts particularly well to certain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which nourish the skin and body in many levels.

The following nutrients are among the very best to consume for healthy, young-looking skin:

Silica:Silica is a trace mineral that strengthens the body's connective tissues - muscles, tendons, hair, ligaments, nails, cartilage, and bone - and is vital for healthy skin. Silica deficiency can result in reduced skin elasticity and can hamper the body's ability to heal wounds. Food sources of silica include leeks, green beans, garbanzo beans, strawberries, cucumber, mango, celery, asparagus and rhubarb.

Zinc: The mineral zinc is an important component of healthy skin, especially for acne sufferers. In fact, acne itself may be a symptom of zinc deficiency. Zinc acts by controlling the production of oil in the skin, and may also help control some of the hormones that create acne. Zinc is also required for proper immune system function, as well as for the maintenance of vision, taste, and smell.

Foods rich in zinc include fresh oysters, pumpkin seeds, ginger, pecans, oats, and eggs. Zinc can be purchased in supplement form, in both liquid concentrates and tablets.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Dry, inflamed skin or skin that suffers from the frequent appearance of whiteheads or blackheads can benefit from supplementing with essential fatty acids (EFAs), especially omega-3s. EFAs are responsible for skin repair, moisture content, and overall flexibility, but because the body cannot produce its own EFAs, they must be obtained through the diet.

The typical American diet is overabundant in omega-6 fatty acids found in baked goods and grains, and lacking in omega-3s, found in cold-water fish such as salmon and mackerel, as well as flaxseeds and safflower oil. Simply balancing the intake of omega-3s with omega-6s can result in smoother, younger-looking skin. EFAs are also available in supplement form - such as fish oil capsules or evening primrose oil - and are effective at treating a wide range of disorders, from depression and cancer to arthritis and heart disease. Good sources of omega-3 oils flax seeds and, for non-vegetarians, wild-harvested fish oils.

We as a family are big fans of Omega Fatty Acids. LOVE THEM. Keep in mind, not all supplements are made the same or created equal. Most importantly the opinions stated here are for informational purposes and do not constitute medical treatment or advice. Consult with your doctor for specific health care issues. Our family consults with Nutritionist Samantha Grant. She has great advice on the best vitamins to take for your specific needs through various testing.

Do a little research on specific vitamins or minerals your heard about or a condition you been thinking of. Begin by being your own health advocate than either schedule a phone consultation with Samantha or ask your friends and family for referral. I love word of mouth tips!

Much health to you all!

Karina

Spooky & Sweet Giveaway Costume Contest!

2009-09-29T13:47:00.000-07:00

A Spooky Sweet Deal! Facebook and Tweet about it!

Our family LOVES halloween. My daughter knows what she wants for next year the night Halloween is over. It's crazy but FUN.

Appropriately so! We'd like to give you some SUGAR, all you have to do is!

Share a picture of that great halloween costume or memory, blast from the past!

3 Spooky and Sweet photo contestants will WIN from our PacificEssentials.com Body Collection and a lovely candle.

All you have to do is;

*Sign up for our newsletter

*Email me your photo at karina@pacificessentials.com.

*If you're on Facebook, become a fan of Pacific Essentials

*Post contest on Facebook, Tweet about it and email about it!

Contest ends Oct 15th! We will contact the 3 winners Oct 16th and will post your winning photo upon your approval!

Good luck and have fun!

Karina

Memories by Bronzaphoto.com

2009-08-26T09:42:00.000-07:00

There's nothing like a GREAT photo. Great lighting, angle and subject.

I always thought I was a bit good (bit is key) and with much effort, lol. At times; I have been successful in capturing good shots, but when I come across a talented and passionate photographer I can't help but share and celebrate them.

I'm lucky to know several GREAT photographers and will share some of those favorite ones in future blogs. In the meantime, I have to begin with Brent Bronza. Not only is he an amazingly sweet guy (i'm a sucker for that), he loves to capture all sorts of great memories. Every time I've seen Brent, he will pop out his camera from out of nowhere and at times a camcorder as well. He just won't miss a thing. Kids love him, families adore him and animals trust him dearly. It sound silly but when you browse through his website, you'll see what I mean. His talent is applied across the board, clicking through random everyday special moments to capture perfect images for your keeps!

Take a peek at his current website, but stay tuned for his additional images. More to come and share!

We can't wait for family photos by Brent Bronza!

Enjoy!

Organize The Pacifics with Erin Condren Planners

2009-08-08T12:44:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited! If you know me well, you'll know I LOOOOOOVE stationary! I always have, ever since I can remember. I specially love personalized stationary. It's so cool to give and receive something specially made for you with your printed name. In times of emails, voice mails and text, there's nothing like a hand written note. Or a reminder note to thy self!!!

If you know me a bit more, you'll know I I LOOOOOOVE Erin Condren's Stationary, it's so much fun. Kyra and I are nutty about brights and fun colors. Erin has that covered completely. Her functional collection works great for our family and makes gifting for all very easy.

In addition to her fun collection of stationary, Erin Condren's 2009 Planner is what i'm most excited about and it's here.Erin's 2009 planner designs are updated with all sorts of fun customizing goodies. You can laminate your covers, upload your favorite photo to any Planner design, add personalized note pads and so much more. I just love it.

Take a peek at her new items and oldies but goodies!

xoxo

Karina

Bula!!! From Fiji!

2009-07-31T17:12:00.001-07:00

It was exactly today, last year that The Pacifics and friends enjoyed the most pristine part of the Pacific "in our opinion" at least. We were loving every second of beautiful Vomo in Fiji. Everything about it was amazing, so much so we all still dream and talk about it with a big smile in our faces. It's great when you dream about a place you have already been. That's a sign of GOOD TIMES!!!!

Let me start at the beginning of our trip. Nine of us flew to the beautiful islands of Fiji. It was a great group. We started with the island of Malolo which gives a more casual family feel. The food was good, the snorkeling was great, thanks to our friend Krishna who had an underwater camera, great underwater pictures & memories were created. On the other side of Malolo was Likuliku (adults only) and has the first and only over-water bures in Fiji. What a piece of heaven.

Vomo Resort was our second stop and has about 29 villas of all kinds. I think I can speak for 5 of us from the group, Vomo rocks. We all hope to visit again and again and again. It was our perfect spot, for families, singles or couples. Vomo is so private and small, that I felt compelled to walk around it. An hour and 15 minutes later, I was filled with an amazing view of frangipani trees, coconut palm trees and a sensational picture perfect memories. Vomo's food was an ongoing delicacy experience. Every meal was yummier than the other. Even the kids menu was great. Our 4 girls were always happy.

The staff at Vomo is wonderful, ALWAYS happy and smiling. From the band that plays each night to serenade you with traditional Fijian songs on guitars, ukulele and tambourines, to the staff that takes care of its sweet and modest turtle aquarium. Very rare turtles occasionally lay eggs on the island, about 100 at a time and leave them to survive on their own. Without human intervention only a handful survive gestation. The staff at vomo takes in any eggs they find and take care of them until they're big enough to cope on their own at sea. All our girls got to feed them and hold them most of our days there. It was truly dreamy.

I really can go on about Vomo but I won't. With the websites and pictures here, you'll get the idea!

Bula

The best sub in the US

2009-07-20T13:29:00.000-07:00

During any New Jersey trip we take, there are 3 to do's in "MY" list. If I don't check those 3 items off my list, I return to LA a very grumpy and bitter Karina. I'm sure you don't blame me, I'm visiting Jersey for goodness sake which has its charm and all, but after adding my top 3 items to my trip, South Jersey is not so bad. And really it's not after I found my 3 essentials.

My top 3 don't have to be fulfilled in any particular order, but they need to be fulfilled nonetheless.

So here it is, once upon a time back in 1946 The White House Sub Shop was born. The home to the BEST sub, really!!!. They are truly the best subs you'll ever eat. People come from all over to relish in their perfect, fresh and delicious creations. It's known that Frank Sinatra had White House Subs delivered to him on tour, he among every big celebrity and their brother visit the one and only White House.

It's the most discreet, modest and busiest sandwich place I have even been to. All their cuts and fixings combined are truly mouth melting. Their exquisite bread rolls (not gluten free) are delivered and made daily. It's really unlike any other roll you'll experience from any ordinary sandwich shop. Tip: Order a half sandwich unless you're sharing, they are HUGE and insanely cheap.

I begged Terry, my sweet and busy sister in law to drive me to Atlantic City where The White House is located. I was suprised to find out she doesn't frequent the place as often as I would, even more suprised when I heard the sounds and expressions coming out of her after her first bite. I hope she gets that fix more often ;)

Anyways, this place is so small and low key, it doesn't have a website but you can check Yelp's Reviews if you don't believe me.

Yum Yum!!!

A South Jersey must. 2 more to come!

Lucky me-Lucky Kyra!

2009-07-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

I have been extremely blessed and lucky girl ALL my life! Really!!! My list is endless and you'd probably get bored so we won't go there TODAY ;)

Here's where I'm going with this. One day long ago, I met Maria at what we call "the crazy woman's house". It was quite a funny scenario, but THANK GOD Maria and I found each other there, the crazy woman "our landlord" was nuts sorry to say.

THANK GOD again, Maria and Jerry (my hubby) met in Miami (both went to UM). THANK GOD they stayed in touch, God would only know to work their friendship to my advantage :)

Luck and god continue to follow the Pacific girls. Maria is not only my dearest BFF and Kyra's godmother, Maria also plays the mother in one of the hottest kids shows on the Disney Channel "Wizards of Waverly Place".

Need I say who the lucky one is? Miss Kyra gets to enjoy the set up close and personal, enjoy live audience tapings often and have a wicked funny godmother. Seriously, lucky Kyra.

The blessing in disguise to Kyra is the fact she gets to experience the kids from the show as what they are "KIDS" who happen to be doing what they love, act and get paid for it. I find that to be monumental to her character. She may not know that now, but that's ok.

Life is wicked funny!

Redeye flights and proper sleep

2009-07-07T10:50:00.000-07:00

We have never been fans of "red-eye" flights but we do it. Kyra doesn't mind, she enjoys the entire flying process (thank goodness).

During my last "red-eye" flight to Miami with Linda, we couldn't help to wonder how we were going to fall asleep and rest so we could live it up in Miami.

We were in mid when a nice flight attendant handed Linda and I satin blindfolds. We put them on thinking "sure why not" it had never occurred to us but we were fast asleep and woke up very rested. Who knew?

We're now getting ready for another "red-eye" experience, yippee. So I have been on a hunt for cute Blindfolds to wear and found the most darling blindfolds with a ton of personality from Lovely Art on Etsy.

I sadly looked too late since this wonderful artist who makes them by hand lives in Spain, there's no way I'd get them by Saturday. For now I'm hoping to find some at Claire's. Wish me luck!!!

A healthy quality of life!

2009-06-30T14:39:00.001-07:00

There are alot of things I admire, but dedication and self discipline are at the top of my list.

Jerry has both and the most impressive part of his discipline is the one for food and exercise ( I can't seem to follow his lead, I love food too much).

Over 3 months ago, Jerry and I began a Gluten Free Cleanse designed by our dear friend Samantha Grant "Certified Nutritionist", definitely a blessing having her in our lives. The cleanse consisted of a protein shake mixed with a cleanse-nutritional powder to rid of junk and replenish with nutrients and supplements. We stocked our refrigerator with vegetables, chicken, fish, quinoa and all gluten free foods. I do have to admit, the no sugar and occasional glass of wine was tough but we did it. I NEVER FELT or LOOKED BETTER. Sure the first day was TOUGH, the no sugar situation was rough "for me" but after the second-third day I had constant energy throughout the day. My days were a breeze, no sugar ups or downs. I didn't feel bloated or gassy. Every morning I woke up with energy and all was smooth, even our frame of mind, same for Jerry.

After our 21 day commitment, Jerry continued a Gluten Free lifestyle and 4-5 day a week workout. Shy of 4 months and 35 lbs lighter, Jerry claims to feel 110% better, calmer, body aches and inflammations are gone and his quality of life has never been better. He looks and acts GREAT! Really, his mood and humor even get credit.

I not only get to enjoy his healthy cooking, but a stud for a hubby!

Granted, I'm half way there, Samantha continues to teach our family through testing, education and consultations about healthy living, supplements, processed foods to avoid and smarter choices. Thankfully Kyra has an open mind when it comes to "gluten free" and tries all our new healthier choices and likes them 80% of the time.

It's sad to say processed and frozen foods are not the best. You have to be your own advocate when it comes to your health. Thanks to Samantha we're off to a good start!

Samantha Grant CN

and cheers to good health!! ;)

karina

Smell, dip, rub and moisturize!!!

2009-06-20T12:59:00.000-07:00

I have struggled with dry hands and elbows for as long as I can remember! You're probably wondering what does that have to do with candles! Well, I was lucky to find the perfect candle wax for us all, a 100% certified organic coconut wax which is harvested from the fruit of the tree, hence no clear cutting or destruction of the forest and making it a natural resource for wax. OK, here's the dry hand tip, when this type of candle wax begins to soften and create a pool, carefully dip your fingers and lather on your hands and arms, the melted wax and oil make a perfect nourishing and moisturizing blend. Organic and safe for all. I've been nutty enough to rub some of the excess from my hands to the end tips of my hair (which is dry too) sadly.

Take a peek at our designs at Pacific Essential Candles

Have fun!

Karina

Summer Homework Packet

2009-06-20T10:31:00.001-07:00

Would you believe it if I told you! Kyra (my one and only daughter) wakes up on her first day off from 2nd grade, first sleep in day and what does she ask for? Her "Summer Homework Packet" she wants to start working on it, I was so confused.

Yes she received a summer packet from school to be completed upon their return. Does anyone remember receiving Summer Packets? I don't, when did this begin? Isn't summer vacation, just that, vacation from school?

Anyways, yes that's what Kyra chooses to do on her first day off, I did praise her and applaud her but was terribly perplexed, does she really want to work on school work her first day off from it? she says it's fun, I say go nuts. Who knew Summer homework would be fun.

Than I thought, by the looks of it, she'll go through her packet in no time. Should I give her more school-like activities if she asks for it? or should I encourage her to simply enjoy summer free from any school worries like we all did..... what to do.

Than I remembered http://www.funbrain.com/. Kyra has enjoyed the many fun educational activities they provide . Check it out! I might as well be prepared, why not. Ya never know.

Cheers!!!

Karina

Summer 09 here we come!!!

2009-06-18T11:55:00.001-07:00

It's official! Summer 09 has begun and the quest for the what to do begins as well. Of course most on the hands of mom! ;)

Will Kyra do beach camps, science camps or theatre, who knows. It all depends on who's the cheapest (sad). Have you taken a look at your local summer camps and their cost? Who stared this trend of charging such steep rates for the sake of fun.

Maybe just theatre camp this time. Beach is for free all year long.

In the mean time we'll definitely step outside our bubble and explore other fun kid friendly venues. Take a peek at http://www.trekaroo.com/, there you'll find fun inside traveling ideas such as hotels, activities, local trip ideas, free or maybe not.

From our California list, it looks like we'll be stepping outside the Southbay bubble 5 times, can't wait.

Cheers!

Go Lakers!!!

2009-06-07T17:37:00.000-07:00

Hi all!

It's sunday afternoon! Friends through out LA are glued to the Laker game rooting for you know who!

If you're a true fan you may enjoy our beautiful Lakers theme buckle. Hundreds of swarovsky crystals are hand set to perfection!!!

Take peek at our now LIVE site Pacific Essentials

Go Lakers go!!!

Happy Sunday ;)

A Poetic Father's Day with Pacific Essentials

2009-06-02T11:06:00.000-07:00