An Unexpected Surprise found at Fiesta Olé, in Whitehall

Ok, so picture this...it is Saturday night and I have no desire to cook, go figure... So, on the spur of the moment, my family and I decide to go out to eat. We weren't sure where to go or what we wanted but our youngest daughter, Lexi wanted a taco.

We had some shopping to do at Best Buy in Whitehall, but with food on our minds, we were a bit distracted.

As we headed down MacArthur Road, we had the urge to hang a right into the parking lot of Fiesta Olé.

Having never been to Fiesta Olé before, I didn't know what to expect. But on a Saturday night in Whitehall, that usually means long wait lines to any of the local restaurants.

We entered the door and were pleasantly surprised to be seated almost instantly. The inside was festive, there was a cute little bar area and a man playing live Mexican Music. The place was very clean and the employees were very nice.

We waited only a short time for our food to arrive and let me tell you, the food was OUTSTANDING!

The man playing the guitar walked around and serenaded each table as we ate. And to top it off, it did not cost a fortune for us to eat and drink.

Everyone enjoyed their meals and before we left, we were all ready talking about going back again.

Here is a breakdown of our visit:

Child Friendly: 5 STARS
Food: 5 STARS
Staff Friendliness: 5 STARS
Establishment Cleanliness: 5 STARS
Overall Visit: 5 STARS

As a Mom, I highly recommend Fiesta Olé. As a lover of Mexican Food, I also highly recommend Fiesta Olé. When checking out their website, I found a coupon for $5 off...wish I had this! I hate finding a coupon after the fact...but now it is a great excuse to go back again soon since it expires 12/31/11.

**Ratings are based out of a 5 Star System""
1 Star is "UNACCEPTABLE"
2 Stars is "POOR"
3 Stars is "JUST OK"
4 Stars is "GOOD"
5 Stars is "ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS!"

Holiday Crafts and coloring at the Lehigh Valley Mall

On Saturday, December 17th, from 11am to 2pm, join Kidgits Club and the Lehigh Valley Mall Teen Board in the Macy's Court for Holiday crafts and coloring! We'll be making reindeer food for Rudolph and all of his friends for Christmas.

Bring your Kidgits Membership Card and your imagination and let's start creating!  Not a Kidgits member? Join today at Guest Services, online or on Craft Day for a special gift!

Visit the website for more information.

A family tradition - Cutting down the Christmas Tree

As my girls get older, holiday traditions are becoming quite important. One that we enjoy is "Cutting down the Christmas Tree". Sure, you can find a Christmas Tree on any street corner in the Lehigh Valley. But for us, the event to "get a tree" is the fun part.

Our place of choice is Pine Brook Hollow Tree Farm in Macungie. My family just loves it here. And that love starts as soon as you enter their property.

We jump from the car and wander down the dirt path that leads to the area that I refer to as the "Christmas Village". The Village includes a cute little building where they sell arts & crafts (also where Santa can be found on certain days/times), an area where they sell wreaths and have free popcorn & apples and a place where your tree gets "shook" and wrapped.

We like to cut down our own tree but you may also choose from fresh cut trees as well. We retrieve our saw from the "Saw Hut" and begin our trek to find the perfect tree.

 Usually, this is where the playful arguing begins "I found the perfect tree!", "No, I did!", "Check this one out, it is better than those!". At that point, my husband just rolls his eyes and says "just tell me which one to cut down".

We carry our tree back down to the area where they will shake it for you. This eliminates the loose pine needles ending up in my living room...yes, I'm picky like that. Lastly, we visit the building where arts & crafts are sold, as this is where we will pay for our tree. From there you can view out to the pond where the resident swans can be found.

I have to say, the people that work there are so very friendly. In my 10+ years that I have come here, I have never encountered an unfriendly person. And that says a great deal about the people who own & manage this business.

If you are looking for the holiday experience & a place to create memories with your family, Pine Brook Hollow is the place to go.   

Breakfast with Santa at the Lehigh Valley Mall

The start of the holiday season just isn't complete without having breakfast with the one & only Santa Claus.  Well, you are in luck!  Santa is planning a special get together at Bravo! Cucina Italiana! on Sasturday, December 3rd.

Reservations are required for this event, please call the restaurant directly at 610-266-4050 to place your reservation.

This event is partly sponsored by Lehigh Valley Mall's Simon Kiddgits Membership program.  For more information visit their site. 

Hope to see you there!

A Little Christmas Miracle: From 1 to 100 Toys for Tots in 48 Hours

After a month of promoting the annual drive to customers and offering an admission discount for every donation, as of last Sunday, BounceU Bethlehem had exactly one toy in its Toys for Tots collection box. 

Forty-eight hours later, the same box overflowed with 100.  “There was no way we were going to disappoint local children who count on us,” says BounceU Lehigh Valley General Manager Carissa Santos. So, on Sunday afternoon she fired off an email to the 60+ teenage employees who staff the company’s two locations. “I know this is last minute,” it read, “but our Toys for Tots bins are looking pretty bare…if any of you are out shopping tonight or tomorrow maybe you would be able pick something up…Let’s spread a little Christmas cheer this year and help out kids less fortunate then us.”

BounceU owner Mike Principato liked Santos’ idea so much that he upped the ante by offering to match every donation, toy-for-toy “Hope you’re ready to go shopping,” Santos told Principato.

Twenty-four hours later, Principato was roaming the aisles of a local department store on a quest to buy 50 toys…one to match every toy contributed the day before by BounceU employees, their friends and their families, for a total of exactly 100 Toys for Tots.

Principato says, “I’m not a guy who likes to shop, but I sure didn’t mind that trip. I’m so grateful to and proud of Carissa and the great group of kids who work at our stores. In 48 hours, we went from one toy to one-hundred. They created their own little Christmas miracle for the children who will receive those toys.”

BounceU Bethlehem and BounceU Allentown are the region’s premier indoor recreation centers for active family fun, offering 10,000 square feet of climate-controlled, spotlessly-clean fun on giant interactive inflatables. BounceU is a national franchise network that specializes in children’s birthday parties, summer day camps, open-to-the-public play sessions and other events in a safe, supervised and private setting. BounceU Lehigh Valley’s “Bounce It Forward” program sponsors dozens of free parties every year for local nonprofit agencies that serve the needs of children and families. For more information, please visit www.bounceu.com

The Queen of Cheap... by LVLO Blogger - Jennifer Jones

Waste not, want not.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

Count your pennies and your dollars will count themselves...

These are all mantras that speak to our sense of thriftiness and practicality.

Certainly one should not be so presumptuous as to assume that any one way of spending money (or not as the case may be) is best. However, during these trying economic times when the penny doesn’t take us quite as far as it used to, it just makes sense to at least try to be thrifty.

Many adults and most kids seem to fall somewhere in the conspicuous consumption category... keeping up with the Joneses so to speak. It can happen so easily with such an overwhelming volume of marketing barraging us with the biggest, best, coolest new trend that we must have. Certainly we’ve all heard it from our kids. “Bobby has that, so I HAVE to have it, too!” or “That’s not fair! EVERYONE has those shoes!” However, if we take a moment to take a close look at what we already have and teach our children what we truly ‘need’ then it becomes quite apparent that the stuff isn’t what truly defines us.

Instead, we can try to glean a better appreciation for what really matters... family, friends and life experience. We can make the conscious decision to teach ourselves and our children the value of simplicity, to acquire an appreciation for what one has without constantly needing more, and to make a commitment to lessen our carbon footprint during a time of an unprecedented population explosion.

So saving money isn’t just about trimming coupons and Black Friday sales. It’s a lifestyle choice. Enjoy being a discerning spender/saver. Don’t look at being frugal, thrifty, or cheap as an insult. Instead embrace your inner cheap skate and think of it, instead, as a compliment. You’re simply fostering creativity in spending, making the choice not to waste and are channeling the eco-you that you know is there. You, too, can be a discerning spender, saver and consumer.

Maybe there is some worth in repeating those mantras after all.

How to have a Stress-Free Holiday

Going into the holiday season, I don't know about you but I tend to get stressed...worrying about making food, buying gifts, wrapping gifts & celebrating my kids' birthdays (yes, I didn't plan well in that department).  Not to mention, running here and running there...pageants, parties and all of the calories I will take in before we hit the new year.

With that being said..I heard some words of wisdom this morning that I wanted to share.

To help keep your stress level down, simply make a list of "things you like to do" and the "things that you don't like to do".  Once you know which things you dislike doing, you can make sure to mix more of the "things you like to do" into the day.  Your days leading up to the holiday can be more enjoyable and less of a bummer and overall less stressful.

Very simple, yet logical advise.

A FUN alternative for Families on Black Friday!

Black Friday can be one of the most stressful days of the year.  Long lines, crowded stores and jammed parking lots can cause even the best-behaved child to have an adult-sized meltdown.  Families looking for a stress-free alternative can put the “happy” back into their holiday on Friday, November 25 from 1:00-3:00 pm during Fall Family Fun Day at The Ice Cream Lab in Walnutport.

Designed for the entire family, the afternoon includes an enchanting, costumed story teller who takes the children on an adventuresome journey, to help three friends find the real meaning of the holiday.  Kids can also craft a “beary” special guest to take home, while enjoying apple cider, snacks and cookies.  Then, working together, parents and children get creative to make and decorate one of the biggest sensations around – bite-size, holiday cake pops!  These mini-morsels of delicious cake are dipped in chocolate and a variety of toppings to create amazing autumn treats.
Of course no event at The Ice Cream Lab would be complete without their famous Make Your Own Sundae Experience, including the award-winning*, seasonal specialties of Apple Spice and Pumpkin ice creams.  Family events at The Ice Cream Lab fill quickly and space is limited.  Cost is $12/child; $10 for additional children and $5 for adults; call (610) 554-0480 for reservations.

The Ice Cream Lab is home to creative kid’s parties, field trips and sweet celebrations - where education and entertainment are blended together for delicious fun!

Grab your Little One & head on over to see Santa at the Lehigh Valley Mall

Well, he's here.  And by "he" I mean SANTA CLAUS! 

Santa made his entrance Friday, 11/11 at 6:30pm at the Lehigh Valley Mall.  The Whitehall Fire Department did the honors by escorting him to the premises.

My family and I were there to greet him as he made his way through the crowd.  He helped to light the Christmas Tree inside the Mall and outside too.


We at Lehigh Valley Little Ones & Family Fun gave out "goodie bags" for the Parents at the event...which included coupons and information for kid-friendly businesses in the area....the bags were all gone in about 20 minutes! 


Thank you to all who came out to this event!  When planning your visit to see Santa, please remember to check Santa's hours at the Mall to make sure he is not out feeding the reindeer when you arrive.


Yes, I'm like a "big kid" now that Santa is "IN" the Valley.  Let the shopping begin!

Santa comes to the Lehigh Valley Mall on Friday, 11/11 at 6:30

There is something about this time of year that gets me very excited!  I love the changing of the leaves, I love the fall decorations but start talking about Santa, Black Friday and all the food, I tend to get a little bit giddy.  Call me crazy or just a fun-loving Mom who likes to get into the holidays...whatever, it bothers me none.  :)

Join the Lehigh Valley Mall in welcoming Santa to the mall with a parade and tree lighting at his workshop on Friday, November 11 at 6:30 P.M.  The Whitehall Fire Department will escort Santa by fire truck to the Outdoor Shops where he will light the Mama and Baby Reindeer before lighting the Outdoor Shops’ 30-foot holiday tree.

The parade will conclude with children guiding Santa to his workshop in the Mall Event Court, where he will be for the remainder of the holiday season. Radio Disney will have a performance at 7 P.M. until 9 P.M., celebrating Santa’s arrival with music, games and prizes.

Simon Kidgits Club Members will receive a discount on photographs with Santa for the entire duration of Santa’s workshop at Lehigh Valley Mall .  The mall will also participate in two pet photograph evenings on Sunday, November 13 and Sunday, November 20 from 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. where cats and dogs are welcome during mall after hours to get their photograph taken with Santa.  The mall asks that those who are interested enter via entrance K, between Boscov’s and Macy’s.  The line will start at Subway. 

The mall will spread holiday cheer to others as they collect toys for Toys for Tots at Guest Services from November 11 to December 10.  In partnership with the American Red Cross, the mall will also participate in Mail for Heroes.  There will be cards available to sign for the troops at Guest Services and shoppers are encouraged to sign one from November 21 through December 4.
For more information on becoming a Simon Kidgits member, please visit Simon. com/Kidgits .

I look forward to seeing you & your little ones as we welcome Santa to the Lehigh Valley Mall.   Please be sure to stop in & say "Hi" to me at the Lehigh Valley Little Ones & Family Fun Table. 

Have you met "Mr. Perfect"?

Well, in all my years if you asked me who "Mr. Perfect" was I'd say my "DH" or my Husband, John.  But in this case, "Mr. Perfect" is the name of a little furry friend that was born with some issues.
Let me back up a step so I can properly introduce you to him. 

Last week I had an opportunity to meet the folks at Last Chance Ranch in Quakertown.  Yes, Quakertown is a few miles outside of the Lehigh Valley area, but for a great cause, it is totally worth it.

My youngest daughter wanted a Guinea Pig for her 5th birthday, so being the "softy" that I am, I gave in.  I did some research on Petfinder about Guinea Pigs in the "area" who needed a home.  Long story short, this search brought me to Last Chance Ranch. 

After the adoption process was complete and we were the new owners of "Dumpling" the Guinea Pig, I wanted to learn how I could volunteer with this great organization.  Being that Quakertown is a 45-minute drive for me, I volunteered my time & efforts to help them with their Social Media.

Now, let's bring in "Mr. Perfect".  "Mr. Perfect" was abandoned and taken to Animal Control in Philadelphia.  Lori McCutcheon, owner & President of Last Chance Ranch is often contacted by Animal Control when there are really odd or critical issues at hand for them.

"Mr Perfect" has Puppy Strangles, or Juvenile Cellulitis, which is a nodular and pustular skin disorder that affects puppies.  The cause of this condition is unknown.  It is painful and secondary infection is the greatest threat.  Puppy Strangles is a classical disease though fortunately not a common one.

Yes, I agree, after seeing the above picture you'd think "how could this little guy survive with this horrible disorder?"  But after Lori brought him back to LCR and treated him for this condition, I am happy to report that "Mr Perfect" is doing very well!

Isn't he adorable????

Last Chance Ranch is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of equine, canine, companion, and small farm animals. 

Do you want to learn how you can donate your time, services or make a contribution to this wonderful organization?  Check out Last Chance Ranch on the web, follow them on Twitter @LCRRescue or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/#!/LCRAnimalRescue.  You will be glad that you did!

"Mr. Perfect" is available for adoption as of today, November 10, 2011.  Contact Last Chance Ranch for more information.

Community Services for Children in Allentown

As I often do, I try & make contacts with organizations that cater to children.  This helps me as a Mom and Website Owner to know what is going on in the Lehigh Valley.  In my travels I came upon a gem - Community Services for Children in Allentown. 

CSC has their own Family Library, within their huge facility, located at 1520 Hanover Avenue.  I had an opportunity to take a tour when I met with Claire DeFazio, VP, Operations & Subsidy Services & Marie Louesy, Librarian.  Also pictured is Desiree Lake & Jacqueline Jean-Pierre.

This library is NOT like other libraries. When you think of the typical library, you imagine a very quiet atmosphere and someone "shushing" you. Not here! This library encourages excitement and is a place for kids to have fun, explore and just be kids!  A very modern, and clean atmosphere along with a quote from Dr. Seuss on the wall, "“The more that you read, the more things you will know...”.

CSC’s Family Library, holds public story time throughout the school year on Tuesdays at 10 am and Thursdays at 1 pm. Every one-hour story adventure includes stories, crafts and a snack. Each month holds a thrilling new theme.  The Library is open Monday through Friday, 9 am to 4:30 pm. Call 610-437-6000, x 3140 for information. And best of all, this event is Free!

CSC also offers two Preschool Options, Head Start & PreK Counts.  To learn more about what they have to offer our Lehigh Valley Children, check out their website.

This year Bon-ton will be hosting Community Days on November 11 & 12th.  Buy your $5 savings booklet from CSC and help the children of the Lehigh Valley.   For more information, please contact Amanda (abuss@cscinc.org) or Louise (louiseb@cscinc.org) at CSC.

The Walnutport Canal Festival - Sunday, October 16, 2011

  What a great day it was this past weekend at the Annual Walnutsport Canal Festival.

Our girls Aneley and Jessica were such big help.

We met lots of new friends and talked to a lot of great people.

That's Amy spreading the word about Lehigh Valley Family Fun.

There were so many great vendors to see. From Old Time Medicine Men, to petting rescued Grey Hounds or fluffy Alpaca. There were crafters and artisans, Steel Miners union gave the kids mining hats and the local Walnutsport Police department gave the kids balloons. There was a front porch fashion show, World War I uniforms to view, and Abraham Lincoln and his Wife strolling around.

We saw a real tee pee, and a hemp farmer gave a demonstration on preparing hemp for weaving.

There were also a lot of great vintage cars, and vintage bicycles.

We liked this one with a giant teddy bear riding in back!

Lots more events to check out this Fall. Come see us this weekend at the

Landmark Nursery Flea and Flower Market on Sunday, October, 23rd from 10-3pm.

For more information Click here.

Let's Volunteer!

So, I'm a Mom.  I run from place to place, depending on the day of the week.  I carpool, I set up playdates and not to mention all of the laundry I do.  Yet there is still one area of my life that I feel is empty. 

I am extremely fortunate that I basically want for nothing.  I work hard for the money I earn and at the end of the day, there is food on the table.  Now don't get me wrong, I'd like to go on a shopping spree every day of the week.  But, let's get real, that's just not in my budget. 

One of my many goals that I have for Lehigh Valley Little Ones & Family Fun is to give back to the community.  Whether it is child-related or not, there are a ton of worthy non profit organizations out there that can use my help & yours.

In the coming months, we, at Lehigh Valley Little Ones & Family Fun will be encouraging everyone, whether you are a Mom or Dad, Grandparent, Aunt or Uncle to get out there to Volunteer.  Let's make a difference in the Lehigh Valley!