Disney On Ice

Jan 19th-21st at Talking Stick Arena
Kids tickets start at $15!
DISCOUNT CODE** Buy 3 get 1 free with code 1FREE

o   Valid on select price levels; not valid on premium seats

o   No double discounts, restrictions and fees apply

o   Max 8 tickets per order

click here to purchase tickets

Pogo Pass

This is the time to get a Pogo Pass because prices go up in January.

Just click on this link to use code "LOVEIT".

Favor Free Tacos Tuesday

Have we told you how much we Love FREE Food?! 

Favor our favorite local food delivery service is offering up 2 FREE tacos from Taco Shark today starting at 5:00!!!!

Free Tacos in Tempe/Scottsdale:

• On Tuesday, October 25th starting at 5 PM- you’ll be able to order two free tacos from Taco Shack. 
• One grilled chicken and one carne asada.  No additions or Substitutions.  The tacos + delivery will be free, but users will be expected to tip their drivers.
• Facebook event here: https://www.facebook.com/events/1170740179685867/ 

Also here are some other fun events for the season. 

• Emoji Carving Templates & Free Pumpkin Deliveries on #NationalPumpkinDay - 10/26 from 2-5 PM ET. 
• http://fv.rs/EmojiCarvingKit    #EmojiPumpkins
• Candy Store:  Have your last minute Halloween Candy delivered with @Favor [Monday 10/24-Mon 10/31]
• Monster Mash Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/user/favordelivery/playlist/4T7Sqvnqp5PSJEvg7el7os
• $3 Deliveries [10/24-10/27]
• Runners will be encouraged to don their best Halloween costumes next week. Take a photo with your costumed Runner and post using the hashtag #FavorHalloween

Flower Child

We are so excited to have Lifestyle Blogger EdnaJames helping us explore the North Valley foodie scene. Here she is in the north Phoenix area at Flower Child on North East corner of Camelback & Central.

Yesterday I dined at Flower Child, Uptown and it was so yummy. For starters the restaurant is absolutely adorable. It has a wrap around patio filled with flower boxes and succulents. When the weather cools down it would be a perfect spot for an afternoon lunch. The inside is just as lovely with bright pops of green & blue, exposed duct work above, and the coolest mosaic tiles. 

For Lunch we started with the Avocado Hummus and I have to say it was a stand out! It was incredibly light and creamy for a hummus, small bites of sweet corn and pumpkin seeds were the perfect touch. The pita bread that came with it was SO soft and fluffy, best pita bread I have had. 

The next stand out was the Flying Avocado Wrap. It is a Whole Grain Wrap and its the yummy pita bread again, insert happy dance! It is packed with the most moist shredded chicken (the grill and shave their own chicken 3x per day, so it tastes so fresh), smoked gouda, romaine, tomato and the avocado hummus. This wrap had everything, moist and full of flavor. 

The final standout may not be for everyone but the sweet corn & quinoa with greek yogurt is something not to be missed! i had never had anything  like it before so it was surprising and delicious at the same time. A perfect blend between creamy and tangy! 

Oh and i may be weird but the restroom should definitely be a stop, the cuteness is too much;). 

Hilton Sedona at Bell Rock

I can't believe it took us so long to travel to the beautiful town of Sedona, which is only 90 min from the valley! If you haven't made it up to the Red Rock Valley then you are missing out big time.  As soon as we neared Sedona, we were all  "OOOH's" and "AAAH's". The Hilton Sedona at Bell Rock is right there with gorgeous views all over. Not only were we surrounded with beauty,  but the Hilton was just a beautiful inside. 

Looking out from the balcony in our room was a breathtaking site. 

With a view like that who wouldn't order room service. Speaking of room service our breakfast in bed was too good for words. 

These red velvet pancakes with blueberry compote were soft and pillowy with a cream cheese icing in between each layer so you got a perfect bite every time! I am already missing them. 

Chef Chris Knightly sure knows what he is doing, the menu is full of flavor and looks, taking his food to a luxury level. They also cater perfectly to our Non-alcoholic needs with a great selection of Mocktails, because everyone deserves a gorgeous drink. 

But the food doesn't stop there 

This Chorizo Fondido Dip with manchego & cream cheese was definitely one of the the tables favorites. A very "manly" dish that the guys just couldn't get enough of. 

Roasted chicken with a savory bread pudding

Mac and Cheese that even had me ( a non mac and cheese fan) gobbling it up. 

This salmon with beets, parsnip puree' and swiss chard was most definitely my favorite. I will be requesting those puree'd parsnips on every dish from now on! 

Of course we didn't let a little warm weather stop us from enjoying a s'more by the fire. 

Just before checking out we were able to enjoy this delicious breakfast buffet. Steel cut oats with all the fixings, banana bread french toast, country potatoes, yogurt and fruit. Plus one of the best chocolate croissants I have ever had! 

So Yes we were definitely huge Fans of all the food the Hilton Sedona had to offer. So much so that we never never needed to go find food anywhere else. But if you are looking to Sedona has some amazing restaurants and some with amazing views.
The Hudson; Javelina Cantina; Dahl & Diluca, Famous Pizza, The Local Juicery; Elote Cafe

I know it may look like all we did was eat, and that is kind of true, but the Hilton has so much more to offer. While the boys were off golfing at a four star rated golf course ( steps away from our room) , we were busy enjoying our massage at the spa. I loved how they make you feel so special, right after we were finished we were greeted with tea and water.  

Staying at the Hilton is only half the wonderment that is vacationing in Sedona. There is so much that  Sedona has to offer and if you aren't sure what to do, don't worry they have a concierge specifically designed to help you plan your day. 

Our first day we enjoyed Slide Rock a natural waterslide in the canyon of the red rocks. I had truly never heard of this and couldn't believe how awesome it was. Though it was quite freezing it was absolutely worth it, and I can't wait to bring my kids back. 

Then it was sunset at Cathedral Rock made even more dramatic by the lighting storm. We stayed there taking selfies and pictures for a good 25 min before the guys hauled us in the car. 

The next day we were able to enjoy a Pink Jeep Tour from the famous Pink Jeeps themselves. Our guide Mike was awesome and had so much to share with us, with some off roading and lots of stops for a great picture. 

I don't want to tell you how to spend your vacation or where to stay, but if I were too, I would say copy everything we did and you are sure to have an amazing time! 

Tnees Tpees

My daughters have been in heaven ever since I put up a tepee in their room! They play in there every day and it's the perfect size for them. I loved all the options of prints to choose from, there's definitely a style for every kid. https://tnees-tpees.myshopify.com/

Pasta Salad

Stephanie's Pasta Salad

About 7 or 8 years ago I was introduced to this salad. Now I don't want to over sell it or anything but I would say Perfection best describes it! If you know Stephanie Meadows you already know that she is a great cook so it is no wonder that this salad rocks. Every time I make it everyone raves. And if I hear that she is making it, well you can bet I am there.  Also make sure you make enough to have some for leftovers. Because this bad boy is going to get eaten.
Stephanie's Pasta Salad

1 bag spiral tri- color rotini

add the rest according to your preference-

cheese cubes

summer sausage cubed

thinly sliced red onion

thinly sliced bell pepper

broccoli flowerets 

cauliflower flowerets

baby carrots 

grape tomatoes halved

small jar of artichokes in oil- chopped

Dressing:

1 c. oil 

1 c. sugar

1 c. red wine vinegar

1 tsp salt

1 tsp pepper

1 tsp garlic powder

Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey Circus

It's that time when the Greatest Show On Earth comes to Arizona and it just got EXTREME!!! And lucky you we have a special deal for our followers 

Buy 3 get 1 Free with code FREE1

·         All tickets after are $25% off

·         Valid on all shows

·         No double discounts

·         Not valid on Front Row or VIP seats

So get your tickets ASAP

WHAT: Prepare to be astonished and amazed by artists who redefine the word extreme in everything they do, magnifying traditional elements of the circus and combining these elements with never-before-seen spectacles, original, fast-paced performances and incredibly hilarious moments. Children Of All Ages can let their imaginations go wild in an exhilarating adventure with extreme thrills, exotic animals and extraordinary performers that add up to the ultimate family entertainment experience. High-wire wizards, powerful strongmen, BMX trick riders, trampoline daredevils, inconceivable contortionists, a high-flying human cannonball, a bungee aerial skydiving display and an international assembly of more than 100 world-renowned artists provide 2 ½ hours of thrilling entertainment. Do something extreme today, and get your tickets for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey^® Presents Circus XTREME at Talking Stick Resort Arena, June 23 – 26, 2016.  

Free with your ticket purchase, the party starts an hour before the show in the All Access Pre-show.  You and your family can meet our international cast of performers and get up close to our menagerie of animals.

Ticketholders can purchase an upgrade and go backstage with a VIP Behind the Scenes Tour of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey. To take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime experience, just log on to ringlingbros.expapp.com from your iPhone or Android smartphone, and provide your name, e-mail and phone number to become a VIP circus insider.

WHEN: Thursday, June 23 – Sunday, June 26

Thursday, June 23 1:00 PM & 7:00 PM

Friday, June 24 11:00 AM & 7:00 PM

Saturday, June 25  11:00 AM, 3:00 PM & 7:00 PM

Sunday, June 26 12:00 PM & 4:00 PM

WHERE: Talking Stick Resort Arena (formerly US Airways Center), 201 E. Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85004

TICKETS: Tickets start at $20.00.  Kids (ages 2-12) tickets available for only $10 each for select seating on weekday shows at participating Chick-Fil-A locations.  Save 50% on Opening Night discount tickets (select seating only; not valid on VIP/Front Row levels)

All seats are reserved; tickets available thru Ticketmaster.com, charge by phone at 800-745-3000 or visit the Talking Stick Resort Arena Box Office.  

*Front Row pricing varies between weekday/weekend performances

Our Westin Kierland Staycation

One of the best things Arizona has to offer in the Summer is the amazing Staycation packages at all the fantastic resorts here in AZ!

The Westin Kierland Resort is not only an Amazing resort with an incredible Pool, Golf Course and Spa but it offers some of the best dining experiences in the Valley. 

Dinner at Deseo was unlike any other dining experience I have ever had. We sat "Rail"

side, which basically means we were sat right in front of the open kitchen. We were able to see, watch and talk to the Chefs while they prepared all the dishes. The only downside to this as that you want to try each thing they make since it all looks so incredible. Deseo is inspired from the tastes and cuisines of South America, with lots of fresh seafood, exotic flavors and ingredients and the best cuts of meat out there. 

I have decided I want to eat my way through their whole Ceviche menu. 

(pictured are the)

Millionaire Tacos- with a yuca shell , lobster, ahi tuna and Japanese Hamachi

Lobster Escabeche- made with sweet, tender northern Lobster, deep fried avacado, chives, garlic chips and sweet ahi

Some of my unexpected favorites were this Virgin Mojito complete with a sugar cane stirrer; the Columbian roll that was a cross between cornbread and a roll ( seriously I am already tracking down a recipe for this one); and the Quinoa soup with toasted quinoa on top ( which I could sprinkle on anything it was so good)!

The special was this Iberico Pork- which is a supreme cut of the pork shoulder from a free roam pig raised on acorns. The meat was sweet, tender and flavorful and was perfectly complemented with the adobo potatoes and chanterelle mushrooms. 

Mahi Mahi with shaved calamari, shrimp and cracked amaranth

 Even down to the dessert, the presentation and quality of food at DESEO is outstanding. This chocolate cigar was divine not to mention the cappuccino gelato that was a perfect match! For more check out their menu here

Not only did we love our dinner but breakfast was a treat as well. With a choice of items like the Panettone Stuffed French Toast with lemon curd and strawberries. 

  or a Breakfast Buffet with all you can drink and eat. Seriously this buffet is first class with made to order omelettes, meats, yogurt bar, pastries, bagels and lox, steel cut oatmeal and so much more.

I know it sounds like the only thing we did was eat but that's not Entirely true! The Westin Kierland has great summer packages and one of them is The Big Chill . Not only do they offer a great deal on the room but also include a dining credit or flow rider experience. During your stay there is so many family fun options, they even had a mini "zoo" for the kids to enjoy. 

The great pool, slide, lazy river, splash pad and flow rider; the O.K. corral which offers ping pong, life size chess, basketball and build your own smores. My kids had a blast even in the scorching Arizona heat. 

We all can't wait to go back and soak up some more fun and food! Thanks so much Westin Kierland we had an amazing time! 

Spring Arizona Restaurant Week 

May 20-29

 10 Days of Dining Delights

So excited for this years Spring ARW. We had the chance to visit some of the restaurants in North Scottsdale this year, all 3 places not only had superb food but the atmosphere and service was fantastic as well. During Arizona Restaurant Week more than 100 participating restaurants will offer a three-course prix-fixe menu for just $33 or $44 per person, excluding beverages, tax and gratuity unless otherwise noted. ARW menus allow food lovers to experience culinary talent from chefs statewide. If you are a foodie and love trying new places this is for you. During Fall ARW my husband and I shared which can make it an even sweeter deal or each get your own to try more options. Either way check out  http://arizonarestaurantweek.com for a complete list of restaurants and menus. 

*Newly opened restaurants Quill Creek Café at Grayhawk Golf Club, Drexyl and Inde Fusion are first time participants in ARW and they join long-time participating restaurants like Fogo de Chao, Liberty Market, Posh, White Chocolate Grill and many others already on the docket.

Cinco De Mayo

 Cinco de Mayo

Commonly confused as Mexico’s Independence Day (which it is not) the holiday commemorates the Mexican army’s unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla. Whether or not you know the history, check out these Valley locations to join in on the celebration!

Z’Tejas

Are you ready to take on the Habanero Inferno Taco Challenge on Cinco de Mayo? Order a plate of specially made fiery Z’Tejas Street Tacos. One of the four tacos is made with the hottest sauce in the world—but you won’t know which one! If you can eat all four tacos and complete the challenge you will get $5 off the normally $12 meal (excludes any happy hour priced tacos). While there, cool down with $5 Dulce Vida ‘Ritas and $3 Coronas all day on Cinco de Mayo.

Miracle Mile Deli

It’s “Cinco de Mile” at Miracle Mile Deli on May 5^th! The locally owned restaurant is serving up a plate of Chicken Enchiladas covered with red sauce and served with a side of beans. The meal deal is just $9 and available all day. Wash it all down with an ice cold Corona—also available for purchase! Miracle Mile Deli has been a staple in the Valley for 66 years. The locally-owned restaurant recently moved to their new venue at 4433 N. 16th Street in Phoenix. Miracle Mile Deli has been family owned and operated for three generations and continues to provide a unique experience in casual dining. Visit miraclemiledeli.com or like them on Facebook at facebook.com/miraclemiledeli.

Taco Guild

This Cinco de Mayo is all about good tacos! Visit Taco Guild in Phoenix for $1.99 Cochinita Pibil Tacos—infused with Roger cline Tequila. Cochinita is pork shoulder and Pibil is a cooking technique that involves wrapping pork  in banana leaves, marinating it in sour orange and annatto– a sweet, slightly peppery red sauce made from annatto seed, a plant found in the tropics – and baking it in a hand-dug barbecue pit in the ground for several hours. The meat becomes tender and flaky, with a subtly smoky flavor. As if that isn’t enough, $3.00 Negro Modello and $5.50 Roger Cline tequila cocktails will also be available. Make up your own Roger Cline cocktail for a chance to have your drink featured on the menu until next Cinco de Mayo! There will be live entertainment. Walking into this repurposed gastropub/Taqueria, with its handcrafted pews and stained glass windows, is like taking a step back in time. 

SOL Cocina

Since it's Cinco it only makes sense that SOL Cocina is celebrating by offering five caliente deals!

∑        $5 - Taco Vampiro

∑        $5 - Taco Gobernador

∑        $5 - Naked Guacamole

∑        $5 - House Margarita made with El Jimidor Tequila

∑        $5 - Watermelon Margarita made with El Jimidor Tequila

The specials will be happening all day from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. There will also be a photo booth from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. and live music with Scott Hallock. Located at the Scottsdale Quarter

Fired Pie

Tacos not your thing? Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with pizza! All day on May 5^th, locally owned fast-casual pizza and salad restaurant, Fired Pie, is offering up their Spicy Southwest Pizza for just $5! Enjoy Chipotle ranch sauce, Mozzarella, Grilled chicken, Roasted peppers, onions, black olives, jalapeno topped with mixed greens tossed with cilantro and ranch dressing. No additional toppings permitted on the pizza to score the $5 deal. The locally owned restaurant allows you to take on the role of chef by picking and choosing your own type of dough, sauce and topping. The sophisticated-yet-affordable pizzeria also offers build-your-own salads. Currently they have four locations in Phoenix, one in Chandler, one in Ahwatukee, one in Glendale, one in Tempe, one in Avondale, two in Tucson and four in Scottsdale. You can find out more about them by visiting Firedpie.com.

Karma Juice

Healthy living has not always been on the top of my priority list. But as I get older I realize how important it is to put good things into your diet and lifestyle. So spending some time with David the co-founder of Karma Juice today, I learned how delicious a healthy lifestyle can actually be. 

Karma Juice offers a huge variety of Organic Cold Pressed Juices and Organic Shakes/Smoothies. Each drink is a delicious meal replacement that will keep you filling fuller longer. They also offer packages for Kleanses and Detoxing. 

After sampling most of them I would say my favorite Juice is definitely 

LOVE

 heart health + anti-aging + digestive health 

green apples, basil, spinach, lemon, cayenne

and my favorite smoothies is

Vanilla Sky

hearth healthy + stabilizes mood + digestive health

almond milk, bananas, rolled oats, pea protein, dates, maca

If you have already done a juice cleanse or have always wanted to try, Karma Juice is where to start. You can order online and your juices are delivered the next day fresh and complete with a sell by date. They also have them in Kale & Clover in Scottsdale Each product is specifically designed to help boost target areas including anti-inflammation, increase metabolism, support brain function, muscle strength and even help fight the cold and flu! Not only do I love the mission statement 

Karma (kar-muh) definition: What we put into our bodies is ultimately what we get out of life.

*Use code Loveit11 for 11% off your order*

Even our little ones couldn't get enough! 

Ahipoki Bowl

It's always a treat when we experience a new food eating concept. Think Chipotle meets Sushi. When you first walk into Ahipoki Bowl you are greeted by a huge guide on how to order. 

I went with the spicy tuna, tuna and salmon with white and brown rice. Not only was it super fresh but they don't skimp on the servings. With so many delicious toppings I loaded up. I am a huge jicama and fish egg fan and was so excited to see them among the options. Last but certainly not least was the drink, which is now my new favorite drink ever, the Mango Passion Fruit aka the Tropical! Seriously I would go back just for that. 

The place was gorgeous with a modern island vibe and lots of seating. We loved it so much that we had to know more about it. Talking to the owner Jason we learned that the original one is in Temple City, California. He decided to bring one to the Valley of the Sun, and man am I glad he did. Not only that, but he has plans to open up at least 3 more! The soonest one being Chandler in the summer. Yea!!!! Don't worry he is also planning on Tempe and North Scottsdale. I have no doubt this place will be a huge success, after only being open a couple of weeks the place was packed with happy satisfied customers like us. Thanks Ahipoki Bowl we can't wait to come back!