Hoa Quach, Author at Times of San Diego https://timesofsandiego.com/author/hoa-quach/ Local News and Opinion for San Diego Sun, 26 May 2024 14:38:27 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://timesofsandiego.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/cropped-TOSD-Favicon-512x512-1-100x100.png Hoa Quach, Author at Times of San Diego https://timesofsandiego.com/author/hoa-quach/ 32 32 181130289 San Diego Moms: Father’s Day Gift Guide 2024 https://timesofsandiego.com/life/2024/05/25/san-diego-moms-fathers-day-gift-guide-2024/ Sun, 26 May 2024 05:55:00 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=273599 Julian Blodgett, 4, hangs on tight to his father after his return to San Diego. Photo by Chris StoneHere’s our annual Father’s Day Gift Guide with the hopes of making gift-finding easier this holiday. ]]> Julian Blodgett, 4, hangs on tight to his father after his return to San Diego. Photo by Chris Stone
Julian Blodgett, 4, hangs on tight to his father after his return to San Diego. Photo by Chris Stone
Julian Blodgett, 4, hangs on tight to his father after his return. Photo by Chris Stone

What’s harder than shopping for a Mother’s Day gift? One could argue shopping for Father’s Day. If dad isn’t telling you exactly what he wants, it can be difficult to find the perfect gift for him. Here’s our annual Father’s Day Gift Guide with the hopes of making gift-finding easier this holiday. 

For the stylish dad

Protect dad’s eyes and keep him cool with NEVEN’s assortment of trendy and affordable sunglasses. With many different styles and color schemes, you are sure to find a pair that dad will love. Plus, the company is offering a deal where you get two free pairs with one purchase! There’s also a warranty so if they break, just send them back for a new pair. 

If dad loves style and comfort, check out SOREL’s range of men’s slippers, which are durable for coffee runs and totally comfy for relaxing during a football game. We love the Falcon Ridge Scuff and Dude Moc Slipper.

Speaking of shoes, check out Juntos, a luxurious yet eco-conscious footwear brand. Juntos offers slip-on and lace-up shoes that have been created from heel to toe using sustainable materials that are abundant in the Ecuadorian landscape.

For the stylish dad who needs a bag, check out the  Chrome Industries Camden Backpack, which fits a 15” laptop and comes with a ton of internal organization for his pens, keys, wallets, phone and more. Plus, it’s made from recycled nylon and is entirely PFAS-free. Another option includes the Kadet Max, which has a swappable buckle feature, he can personalize it to match his unique sense of style. 

Let dad hit the fairways with the trendiest of gear from Sunday Swagger, a polo company with personality. Dad will love the bold, bright patterns and prints where you can spot him a mile away. All polos are designed with 4-way stretch, UPF 40 sun protection, moisture-wicking technology and a breathable poly spandex blend that is wrinkle resistant.

For the active dad 

Gift dad some comfortable clothing to get active in with prAna. We love the company’s Stretch Zion Short II, which is breathable and lightweight, and the Lost Sol Short Sleeve Shirt, which is also made with breathable stretch fabric, built in UPF 50+ protection and moisture-wicking properties.

How about gifting dad his very own kayak? Hydro-Force Cove Champion Inflatable Two-Person Kayak is affordable and comes with everything dad will need for a great day on the water! It is designed for a quick and easy setup and also comes with a hand pump.

Speaking of water – how about adding a pool to dad’s backyard with Bestway Inflatable Pool Set. It’s super easy to set up – just select a level surface, inflate the top ring and the pool will rise as it’s filled up with water. 

Get dad on the pickleball wagon with Selkirk, the owner of high-end paddles that provide better performance, durability and control. The company has paddles for all player levels, along with plenty of videos and tips on how to improve your game. 

For dad’s long runs, get him the JLab’s JBuds Lux ANC Over-Ear Headphones, which has exceptional sound quality, 70+ hours of playtime and Smart Active Noise Cancellation. 

For the dad that loves to escape but needs to stay connected, check out MIDLAND’s  X-TALKER T71VP3 Two-Way Radio. These walkie-talkies provide up to 15 hours of battery life and 38 miles of range! 

Does dad need help unwinding from his active days? Try the Hydragun HeatPulse Knee Massager, which combines the therapeutic benefits of heat and vibration therapy, offering soothing relief for chronic pain, sports injuries, and post-surgery recovery. Or the Penetrex Trio Bundle for Joint & Muscle Relief, which helps deliver relief from any discomfort. 

For the foodie dad

For the dad who loves to be in the kitchen, help him get organized with the cool StoveShelf. The handy, yet simple, shelf will allow dad to access his essentials faster while keeping the kitchen tidy. 

If dad loves to cook meat, he’ll love the MeatStick 4X Wireless Meat Thermometer, which can accurately tell the temperature of whatever he is cooking. The company is currently offering 30% off its products in honor of Father’s Day.

If he enjoys hunting and cooking, he’ll love Excalibur for making his very own jerky!  The Excalibur Dehydrator Select Series 10 Tray offers a temperature range of 85°-165° F and a timer for up to 30 hours, allowing you to efficiently dehydrate a wide variety of foods, including meat, fruit, and herbs. 

Upgrade dad’s wine supplies with Vin Fresco. The company offers rechargeable wine openers, electric wine aerators and more. Dad will appreciate the faster and easier access to his favorite wines. 

Dad could always use a few great bottles of wine. Celebrate him with the exquisite taste of Kenefick Ranch, crafted with love and dedication from the heart of Napa Valley. We love the 2019 Kenefick Ranch Pickett Road Red, 2015 Kenefick Ranch Petite Sirah and the 2022 Kenefick Ranch Rosé.

How about a sweet gift? Chef Max of Magnolia Kitchen is delivering sweet goodness with his mouth-watering cookies. Check out his assortment of baked good options, which are all made with 100% butter and all-natural ingredients.

Have a gift idea for dads? Tell us in the comments.

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San Diego Moms is published on Saturdays. Have a story idea? Email hoaq@timesofsandiego.com and follow her on Instagram at @hoawritessd.

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Spreckels Organ Society Announces Summer Organ Festival https://timesofsandiego.com/arts/2024/05/24/spreckels-organ-society-announces-summer-organ-festival/ Sat, 25 May 2024 05:15:00 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=273711 SpreckelsSpreckels Organ Society, a nonprofit organization curating concerts and performances in the heart of Balboa Park, announced this week its 36th annual San Diego International Summer Organ Festival -- the largest organ festival in the U.S.]]> Spreckels
Photo courtesy of Spreckels Organ Society

Spreckels Organ Society, a nonprofit organization curating concerts and performances in the heart of Balboa Park, announced this week its 36th annual San Diego International Summer Organ Festival — the largest organ festival in the U.S.

Beginning June 17 through Sept. 2., the Spreckels Organ Society will host these special 90-minute concerts for free on Monday evenings at 7:30 p.m.

Highlights include Jeff Thayer, San Diego Symphony Orchestra Concertmaster, performing for the first time in the Festival with San Diego Civic Organist Raul Prieto Ramirez; a Jazz & Organ Quintet from Montreal for Jazz lovers; the Spreckels Organ performing with a 32-member symphony orchestra; a not-so-Silent Movie Night; a Labor Day Classic Rock concert with the 7-member Pavilion Rock Band; and international acclaimed organists and competition winners.

“There is truly something for every music lover,” said Raúl Prieto Ramirez, San Diego Civic organist and artistic director for the Spreckels Organ Society. “It’s all here! The Society is proud to present an explosion of styles, sounds, colors, and cultures in the heart of Balboa Park!

“With such a large variety, our focus is on serving the community,” said Prieto Ramirez. “Nowhere else can a family take their kids to gain exposure to the purest of art forms, broaden their musical awareness, expand their musical joy, learn about new repertoires, and hear new and old styles far from mainstream.”

In addition to the special summer performances, the Spreckels Organ Pavilion also hosts weekly concerts every Sunday at 2:00 p.m. Through the generosity of the City of San Diego, the weekly Spreckels Organ Society concerts at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion are presented at no charge in accordance with the 1915 Deed of Gift whereby the brothers John and Adolph Spreckels gave the organ and pavilion to the City of San Diego. Donations are always accepted.

Set in the beautiful backdrop of Balboa Park’s open-air venue at 2125 Pan American Road, performances bring a one-of-a-kind experience for guests. The elevated music venue brings world-class musical artists for San Diegans and visitors to enjoy, for free, on the largest outdoor musical instrument in the world!

For the full Festival program, visit spreckelsorgan.org/summer-organ-festival. For more information about the Spreckels Organ Society, visit www.SpreckelsOrgan.org.

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San Diego Moms: This Mother’s Day, Give Yourself Self-Care https://timesofsandiego.com/life/2024/05/11/san-diego-moms-this-mothers-day-give-yourself-self-care/ Sun, 12 May 2024 05:55:00 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=272286 It’s difficult to put your needs and wants before others. This Mother’s Day, Tawnie Putignano — a licensed clinical social worker with Thriveworks and a mother of four — reminds us of the importance of self-care. ]]>
Photo by Sai De Silva on Unsplash

It’s difficult to put your needs and wants before others — especially for mothers. This Mother’s Day, Tawnie Putignano — a licensed clinical social worker with Thriveworks and a mother of four — reminds us of the importance of self-care. 

Mothers are often told that taking care of themselves first is the foundation of being a good parent, but how do we do that without the mom guilt?

Self-care is essential to being a good and present mom. As a mom, when you feel overwhelmed and stressed out, it not only impacts your mental health but it also impacts the way you parent your children. Like it or not, your children do notice when you are stressed out and pushing yourself past the brink of exhaustion. Similar to how professional athletes train hard before a big game or runners before an upcoming marathon, mothers need to incorporate good self-care into their own parental training routine, and consider that a necessity to being a good parent.

What are the steps to ensuring you are taking care of your own emotional, mental and physical health?

Tawnie Putignano, a licensed clinical social worker with Thriveworks. Courtesy photo

You know that old saying, “Failure to plan is planning to fail”? Moms need to plan in advance for their own self-care. Take the time to think about what brings you happiness and peace outside of your mothering and jot those ideas down. Then, pick a couple ideas that you want to start with first and designate time on your calendar, even if those activities might be in the far future. Check in with friends and family and stay connected to your relationships, plan dates in advance. Doing this regularly will not only give you something to look forward to, but will also make it easier for you to incorporate self-care into your daily routine. Examine your current relationships and surround yourself with people who help you feel joy, make you feel good about yourself, and spend less to zero time in those relationships that do not. 

What are the best ways to explain to your child about the need for “mommy alone time”?

 It is so important for moms to understand that they do not need to “ask” their child for permission to have self-care but that they are explaining to their child and also modeling to their children the importance of taking the time for self-care. Moms can always use a relatable scenario to their child in explaining the need for self-care based on the child’s developmental age. For example with a small child, I would suggest saying the following, “you know how it makes you feel happy when you are coloring or playing with your favorite toys? Well when mommy goes for a walk, that makes mommy feel happy too and finding things that make us feel happy is very important”. Doing this accomplishes several things, first, you are modeling for the child that it is okay to take time for yourself, second, you are encouraging the use of feeling words, and third, you are pointing out to your child that they are responsible for their own feelings and that they can choose to engage in activities that bring them joy.

What are the consequences for not taking care of oneself first?

According to research, parental burnout is characterized by physical and emotional exhaustion, emotional distancing from one’s children, and a sense of incompetency in one’s parenting role. If you start noticing that even though you might be physically present for your children but are not emotionally and mentally present, similar to the feeling of “checking out”, you may be experiencing parental burnout. Not only are you missing out on your children’s lives but they are also missing out experiencing you at your very best. No parent wants to look back 20 years down the road with massive regret about not being the best and present parent they could have been. Take the time to fill up your parenting tank so that you can give your children the best rides of their childhood!

If you could tell mothers one fact about self-care, what would it be?

I would encourage moms to not feel guilty about taking time for themselves and to be mindful that good parenting is all about balance. It’s not about being a martyr for your children, it is about being a good positive role model for your children and demonstrating to them that it is not selfish to speak up for one’s needs.  In raising confident children who are fierce advocates for themselves, we must first model that same advocacy for ourselves and for our own self care and needs.

Happy Mother’s Day to all the great mothers out there! May you enjoy some alone time this holiday.

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San Diego Moms is published on Saturdays. Have a story idea? Email hoaq@timesofsandiego.com and follow her on Instagram at @hoawritessd.

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Golden State Ballet presents ‘TRIFECTA’ in June https://timesofsandiego.com/arts/2024/05/09/golden-state-ballet-presents-trifecta-in-june/ Thu, 09 May 2024 20:14:19 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=272292 In celebration of its third anniversary, the Golden State Ballet will present “TRIFECTA,” at the San Diego Civic Theatre on June 2 and at the The Irvine Barclay Theatre on June 4. “TRIFECTA” is a program of winning contemporary masterworks from the past, present, and future. This end-of-season program brings together a trifecta of the most […]]]>
TRIFECTA. Courtesy photo

In celebration of its third anniversary, the Golden State Ballet will present “TRIFECTA,” at the San Diego Civic Theatre on June 2 and at the The Irvine Barclay Theatre on June 4.

“TRIFECTA” is a program of winning contemporary masterworks from the past, present, and future. This end-of-season program brings together a trifecta of the most recognizable names in contemporary ballet: Jirí Kylián, NDT (SECHS TÄNZE); Jorma Elo (ONE/end/ONE), and Andrea Schermoly (STAND TO REASON). For those patrons seeing the show at the San Diego Civic Theatre, they will be treated to a 13-piece live orchestra.

The Sunday, June 2 San Diego performance will take place at 2 p.m. and will include a 13-piece live orchestra. While the Orange County performance is Wednesday, June 4 at 8 p.m.

Tickets at both theatres range in price from $35 to $75. The show runs about two hours, including two intermissions.

For tickets and more information, visit www.goldenstateballet.org.

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Children’s Discovery Museum to Open ‘Storytime Inventing’ Exhibit Supporting Early Literacy https://timesofsandiego.com/life/2024/05/08/san-diego-childrens-discovery-museum-announcesnew-storytime-inventing-exhibit/ Thu, 09 May 2024 05:15:00 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=272141 The San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum announced Storytime Inventing, a new interactive and educational exhibit for young children and their caregivers supported by Kid Spark Education.]]>
Photo courtesy of San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum

The San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum announced Storytime Inventing, a new interactive and educational exhibit for young children and their caregivers supported by Kid Spark Education.

Storytime Inventing, opening May 19, will feature an experience that celebrates Kid Spark Education’s innovative Rokenbok building materials and early literacy.

The new exhibit allows families to enhance their little one’s reading comprehension and problem-solving skills through interactive challenges inspired by some of their favorite children’s storybook characters. From constructing clever traps to engineering towers, this hands-on experience promises to spark creativity and foster essential developmental skills. Guests can take part in hands-on open-ended challenges at a workstation or enjoy a book in the quiet reading nook.

“We wanted to create an exhibit in partnership with Kid Spark Education that would inspire STEM skills through fun and immersive storybook challenges. Through specially crafted curriculum, we hope children enhance their reading and listening comprehension, vocabulary development, and problem-solving abilities,” said Whitney Raser, Director of Education at San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum.

We ultimately hope to build foundational developmental skills that many kids will need as they continue with their education.”

“We are proud that Storytime Inventing has emerged from our long-term partnership with San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum,” added Paul Eichen, founder of Kid Spark Education. “Uniting reading with hands-on engineering, Storytime Inventing takes families on imaginative journeys to spark curiosity, deepen comprehension, and foster a love for both reading and creating,” he concluded.

Storytime Inventing is included with Museum admission.

For more information, visit SDCDM.org/StorytimeInventing.

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San Diego’s Clearity Kicks off Annual Fundraiser for Ovarian Cancer Services https://timesofsandiego.com/health/2024/05/08/san-diegos-clearity-kicks-off-annual-fundraiser-for-ovarian-cancer-services/ Wed, 08 May 2024 16:00:00 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=272137 A doctor with a Medicare patient. Photo courtesy Centers for Medicare & Medicaid ServicesClearity – a San Diego-based national ovarian cancer nonprofit organization – kicks off its annual Teal Revolution fundraiser this month to raise needed funds for Clearity’s services and serve more people impacted by an ovarian cancer diagnosis. Registration is now open for Teal Revolution, which runs May 1-31. Fundraisers are invited to register and create a fundrising page, personalize their […]]]> A doctor with a Medicare patient. Photo courtesy Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
A doctor with a Medicare patient. Photo courtesy Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
A doctor with a Medicare patient. Photo courtesy Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services

Clearity – a San Diego-based national ovarian cancer nonprofit organization – kicks off its annual Teal Revolution fundraiser this month to raise needed funds for Clearity’s services and serve more people impacted by an ovarian cancer diagnosis.

Registration is now open for Teal Revolution, which runs May 1-31. Fundraisers are invited to register and create a fundrising page, personalize their page with help from toolkit, and share the link with friends and family. Donors contribute directly to support Clearity’s services – personalized ovarian cancer counseling, education and guidance to find appropriate clinical trials. Fundraisers may also host any number of events, such as informal walks, runs or workout classes and ask their community to make a donation and attend.

World Ovarian Cancer Day is on May 8 every year. This day is observed worldwide to raise awareness about ovarian cancer and the need for more treatment options and better outcomes for everyone who is diagnosed.

Clearity’s mission is to revolutionize life with ovarian cancer. Their individualized ovarian cancer education and counseling are delivered by experts to participants nationwide. All Clearity programs are offered free of charge.

Founded in 2008, Clearity seeks to improve the survival and quality of life for women with ovarian cancer, empowering them and their families with science-based information and hope throughout the experience. Clearity believes all women should have access to the most advanced support, personalized for them.

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San Diego Moms: KidWonder Owner Hopes to Build Confidence, Friendships https://timesofsandiego.com/life/2024/04/28/san-diego-moms-kidwonder-owner-hopes-to-build-confidence-friendships/ Mon, 29 Apr 2024 05:30:00 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=271001 Lifelong athlete Kim Bryant recently opened her second location of KidWonder with the goal of giving all children an opportunity to succeed in life. ]]>
KidWonder owner Kim Bryant and her four children. Courtesy photo

Alpine mom Kim Bryant said she knows firsthand the impact athletics had on her own life. A gymnast and diver, Bryant set out to create a space where all children had the opportunity to thrive. 

Today, she is the owner of KidWonder, a competitive ninja warrior training gymnasium that also offers camps, schooling and more. With the original location in Linda Vista, Bryant opened the second location in Encinitas this year. 

Aside from being an athlete herself, the mother of four children said she knows the benefits of being active. 

“There are endless studies that show the impact movement has on the brain’s ability to absorb information and increase the synapses in the brain,” Bryant said. “I wanted to change the way children learn from an early age. They have so many years where they must sit in classrooms with just four walls throughout their school years, why not give them something different before they’re required to sit still at desks?”

The need for a second KidWonder location grew during COVID when families from far away began to travel to Linda Vista. 

“We had people traveling for ninja classes and Kinetissori from North County and after COVID and looking for spaces — this space came up and both our business and residential neighbors have really been more welcoming than I could have ever dreamed of,” Bryant said. 

Now, she is proud to be a part of the North County “village” of families.

“We hope parents receive the village they’ve been looking for,” Bryant said. “A place to let their kids ‘bounce off the walls’ safely, get energy out, and maybe even be able to have a conversation with other moms while their kids are having a blast.”

And, while providing support to families — Bryant and her team find joy in seeing their students and athletes grow. 

“I think seeing the growth of children who have been with us since the beginning is the most special part of this,” Bryant said. “Seeing our Kinetissori learn big math problems and start to read, beside our ninja kids sweeping podiums at competitions is really cool to see. I hope our students get lifelong friendships, confidence, and a solid foundation for all aspects of life.” 

Most importantly, Bryant wants families to know KidWonder is for everyone. 

“I designed a space that would be the answer to a range of kiddos by skill, age, desires, and ability to focus,” Bryant said. “Having something for everyone largely ignites children’s passion and greatly increases their confidence. [KidWonder is] a family sanctuary where parents can entrust their children for hassle-free, kid-free moments to tackle errands or simply enjoy a few moments to themselves without being overstimulated by kids needing entertainment.” 

For more information about KidWonder, go to kidwondersd.com.

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San Diego Moms is published on Saturdays. Have a story idea? Email hoaq@timesofsandiego.com and follow her on Instagram at @hoawritessd.

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San Diego Moms: Mother’s Day Gift Guide 2024 https://timesofsandiego.com/life/2024/04/13/san-diego-moms-mothers-day-gift-guide-2024/ Sun, 14 Apr 2024 05:55:00 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=269033 Mother’s Day is four weeks away — giving you plenty of time to find a gift of appreciation for the mother in your life.]]>
Photo courtesy of Hayden LA

Mother’s Day is four weeks away — giving you plenty of time to find a gift of appreciation for the mother in your life! Whether it is your child’s mom, your own mom or an expectant mom — here are recommendations for Mother’s Day gifts to make her feel truly special. 

For the trend-setting moms

Does the mother in life love all things fashionable? How about the mommy-and-me outfits? Hayden LA is the go-to brand for trendy, mommy-and-me outfits that any mother and daughter will adore. Aside from being affordable, the brand is also inclusive with sizes ranging from small to 3XL! We love to the Hayden LA Washed Textured Smock Detail Tank Dress, Hayden Girls Washed Textured Smock Detail Tank Dress, Hayden LA Plaid Patch Pocket Button Down Dress and Hayden Girls Plaid Patch Pocket Button Down Dress

For the accessory-loving moms

Speaking of mommy-and-me, we love those PinkTag Mama + Mini Bracelet. Featuring two beaded bracelets, one for you and one for your mini-me, you’ll always be together even when apart. This is a great gift for any child who may feel sad when leaving mama — the bracelet will remind them that mom is always thinking of them and will see them soon. 

If mom wants a little more bling, check out the options from Brilliant Earth, an ethically sourced jewelry company dedicated to sustainability. Its Script Mama Diamond Pendant Necklace is a luxurious gift to celebrate the incredible moms in your life. The lustrous diamond necklace features the word “mama” written in beautiful script. 

For the shoes-obsessed mom

Introduce your mom to some swanky shoe brands this Mother’s Day. Samuel Hubbard is the go-to comfortable and stylish shoe with podiatrist-approved options! We love the Women’s Sunset Sneaker, Cascade Clog ($175) and Valencia Ankle Boot

Juntos is a luxurious yet eco-conscious footwear that offers slip-on and lace-up shoes that have been created from heel to toe using sustainable materials, such as alpaca fleece in the upper and sock liners, coconut fiber in the insoles, banana tree fibers in the knit linings, and sugarcane in the midsole. We love the Women’s AlpaKnit Lace-Up for moms. 

Forget Hoka, try NORTIV 8 for an affordable and athletic line of shoes for mom. We love the 

newly launched Nimbus running sneakers, which are designed to keep women moving with ease and comfort. They are cute too! 

For the spa-devoted mom

A massage anytime, anywhere is the perfect gift for mom! Gift your mom the StretchPad by Hydragun, which is a heated stretching massager that gently lifts, pulls, pushes, twists, and adjusts the body to release stiffness and tension from neck to hips! With 7 pre-programmed stretching and massage routines available at the push of a button, it’s the most effortless way to decompress after a long day. 

While mom gets a massage, let her indulge in products from ESW Beauty, including the new Pastel Bloom Set. The set features five compostable sheet masks thoughtfully crafted to repair moisture, revitalize, soothe, nourish, and leave you with a radiant glow for the season. 

Top off your mom’s in-home spa experience with products from the locally owned Tubby Todd Bath Co From hand creams to bubble baths to hair and body wash — Tubby Todd has it all for mama and the family. 

Turn your mother’s bedroom into an oasis with bedding (and clothing) from Cariloha, which has products made from viscose bamboo. The material is compared to luxury fabrics like cashmere and silk for ultimate comfort, durability and softness.

For the purse-captivated mom

Mom will feel like a million dollars with the beauty that is Lambert The Helena. The Helena stands out with its silhouette that is both minimalist and sophisticated. Designed in vegan leather, this bag offers all the practicality without compromising the look. Equipped with a sleeve for laptops up to 16 inches and numerous compartments, the Helena is perfectly suited for work. Turn it into a cross-body bag thanks to the adjustable and removable strap.

Or have your mother feel like royalty with the G’Juan Xavier Goddess Clutch. Crafted from high-quality materials and featuring a chic gold chain, this clutch is the perfect accessory for the fashionista. Upgrade your wardrobe today and experience true luxury.

Finally, for the ultimate travel accessory, go to TRVL Design for Mother’s Day. TRVL Design has the Batik collection, which includes a sweet Mini Tote and Packing Squad Packing Cubes, which is perfect for travel.

If mom loves the functional bags, meet Ayla & Co., makers of everyday-need bags and dream accessories designed with simplicity and style. Initially crafted as a minimal and transitional diaper bag, the brand now has has evolved by expanding its line with a more extensive collection of bags and nifty accessories.

For the kitchen-dotting mom 

If mom loves her fresh juice and cocktails, get the Vinci Hands-Free Citrus Juicer, a countertop appliance of its kind featuring patented pressure-sensitive, rind-thickness detection technology that squeezes fresh juice without a mess in just 10 seconds, and eliminates the bitterness that comes with other juicers which often break the rind. 

What about a great cup of coffee? Mom will get that with the ESPRO, a best-selling product. The device has a double-filter so mom gets a smoother cup without the grit. Best of all, it’s ready in just 4 minutes! 

If mom prefers tea, serve it up in VIVA’s Nicola Porcelain Tea Pot. The contemporary design is beautiful and perfect for brewing loose leaf tea. Plus, the cups come in a set of two so you can share a moment with mom. 

While mom is enjoying her drink, cook up her favorite breakfast menu in American Cookware Kitchen. Pancakes? Eggs?  No problem. They’ll slide right off with the Nonstick Skillet (Starting at $89.99). Who doesn’t love easy-to-use kitchen products?

For the cleanliness-captivated mom

This would be every mom because who doesn’t love a clean house? Even better if you don’t have to do the cleaning yourself! Check out AIRROBO’s latest robot vacuum and mop that offers up to 60 days of hands-free cleaning experience! Yes, 60 days sounds like a dream come true for anyone but especially moms. 

For expectant moms

Let mom-to-be indulge in the exquisite quality of Wildbird products. Their simple, yet beautiful, products are great for any future moms. The brand recently released its new collection of beautifully crafted prints in their aerial carrier, ring sling, jammies and more.

Help mom get the rest she needs even with a baby in utero! The S.O.S Side Sleeper Pregnancy Wedge Pillow By Belly Bandit is easy-to-use, ultra-compact, grows with you throughout your pregnancy and puts your mind at ease so you can get your Zzzs.

Give mom the Cara Jersey Robe by Simple Wishes, a luxuriously soft, jersey robe that is a feminine essential for daily wear. Featuring convenient pockets and a belt, this is a versatile must-have to pack in your hospital bag and cover up at home with visitors. We also love the Adult Eco Fleece Loungewear set by PAIGELAUREN and the Hydrangea Ribbed Women’s Pajama Set.

Get the ultimate baby essential with the Luna Diaper Bag by ENYA MOND.

Crafted from top-grade premium vegan leather in a rich pebble finish, Luna exudes sophistication. Every detail speaks quality – from the high-grade zippers to the light gold custom-logo hardware. Does mom like backpacks too? Try the Elara Backpack by ENYA MOND.

Finally, here’s one for mom and baby – the Chic Pilates/Yoga Runner Mat by Morris & Co. x Totter + Tumble. It has a supportive .5” thick memory foam that cushions mama’s feet in the kitchen or bathroom and cushions her body while she’s practicing yoga or pilates. It is also designed as a playmat for little ones, the mat is multifunctional for everyone. Safe and certified for newborns and up, high quality and recyclable.

Have recommendations for the Mother’s Day Gift Guide? Tell us in the comments!

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San Diego Moms is published on Saturdays. Have a story idea? Email hoaq@timesofsandiego.com and follow her on Instagram at @hoawritessd.

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Lemon Grove Native Takes the Disney on Ice Stage at Pechanga Arena https://timesofsandiego.com/arts/2024/04/11/lemon-grove-native-takes-the-disney-on-ice-stage/ Fri, 12 Apr 2024 05:45:00 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=269036 Lemon Grove native Aiden Elswick found his passion for skating at Kroc Center Ice and Poway Ice before competing nationally.]]>
Photo courtesy of Disney on Ice

At just 6 years old, Aiden Elswick found his passion for ice skating. The Lemon Grove native would spend his days practicing the sport at Kroc Center Ice and Poway Ice before competing nationally. Today, he is taking his love for ice skating to the entertainment industry where he is performing for the popular Disney on Ice productions. 

Aiden Elswick

Disney on Ice will return to San Diego this Thursday with “Mickey’s Search Party,” which includes seven performances telling the stories of “Peter Pan,” “Coco,” “Frozen” and more.

“What I love most about performing for Disney on Ice is bringing my childhood memories to life and sharing my love for performing and these stories to audiences around the world,” Elswick said. “The best part about Disney on Ice is the numerous acrobatic elements throughout the show. From stilt walking to flying high above the ice, you can expect to see many stunning acts.” 

Inspired by his parents, Elswick said he hopes to continue his career as a professional skater and entertain audiences around the country. 

“We hope to bring the magic of Disney to each city we visit and provide an exciting, eventful experience for everyone who watches to remember,” Elswick said. “Skating and performing alongside such an amazing group of athletes has been an incredible experience. I wouldn’t have made it here without the help of my mom, dad, and coach, who pushed me to work hard and make the most of each training session.”

Watch Elswick and others perform starting through Sunday at Pechanga Arena San Diego. Following is a list of showtimes:

  • Friday, April 12 — 7 p.m.
  • Saturday, April 13 — 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. 
  • Sunday, April 14 — 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.

Tickets start at just $20. For more information or to purchase tickets, go to disneyonice.com/mickeys-search-party/san-diego-ca-pechanga-arena-san-diego 

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SeaWorld San Diego Celebrates National Dolphin Days https://timesofsandiego.com/life/2024/04/11/seaworld-san-diego-celebrates-national-dolphin-days/ Thu, 11 Apr 2024 16:02:04 +0000 https://timesofsandiego.com/?p=269040 SeaWorld San Diego announced this week it is celebrating National Dolphin Day on April 14 with enhanced educational presentations and up-close experiences as well as special photo opportunities and dolphin-themed food items. Guests at SeaWorld have various opportunities to see and learn more about dolphins. At Dolphin Point, home to bottlenose dolphins, guests can see […]]]>
Photo courtesy of SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld San Diego announced this week it is celebrating National Dolphin Day on April 14 with enhanced educational presentations and up-close experiences as well as special photo opportunities and dolphin-themed food items.

Guests at SeaWorld have various opportunities to see and learn more about dolphins. At Dolphin Point, home to bottlenose dolphins, guests can see how the dedicated animal care team and dolphins work together during daily Dolphin Connections. During this educational session, guests will discover fascinating facts about these amazing creatures and the important role and connection that SeaWorld’s animal specialists play in caring for dolphins.

During the Dolphin Adventures educational presentations, guests are introduced to high-flying bottlenose dolphins, as well as rescued pilot whales, and the dedicated team that cares for them as they show off their incredible athleticism and celebrate life.

In addition to these experiences, SeaWorld is offering the following:

  • An extra 10% discount on all merchandise at Dolphin Treasures, with an extra 10% off for Annual Pass Members
  • Photo opportunities with Coral the Dolphin costumed character
  • All-weekend happy hour at Underwater with a special $5 Dolphin Fizz cocktail

For more information on SeaWorld, go to SeaWorldSanDiego.com.

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