Tips for enjoying Universal Studios Hollywood

We've been to Universal Studios four or five times now. We went twice in Orlando and two or three times in Hollywood. Is it terrible if I can't remember? We've gone every couple of years since our daughter turned 3.

We recommend it if you have at least school age children. While there are fun things for preschoolers, you will enjoy the park more if your child is old enough to ride the attractions.

According to the Universal Studios website: The Transformers and Simpsons rides require being 40 inches tall; Jurassic Park has a minimum height of 42 inches; and the Mummy ride requires riders to be 48 inches tall. Shows can be quite entertaining for all, and several attractions — Shrek 4D, Terminator 2: 3D and Studio Tour (including King Kong 360 3-D) — allow you to just sit and watch.

Here's how we made the most of our day and a half at the park. Since we've gone before, we knew what we wanted to see and do (the new stuff and the cool stuff — all personal preferences).

We started by buying tickets at Costco. Offers vary from store to store, but we found 2-day passes for $64 each. The ticket allows you to use your second day within 90 days of the first use; and the first use has to take place before Dec. 31, 2012. Since we don't plan to return until maybe 2014 (we want the kids to be old enough to be part of a studio audience), we opted to go two consecutive days.

However, if we thought we'd go more often, we would have opted for the Universal Studios deal of the moment: Buy a day at the park and enjoy the rest of 2012 and 2013 for free. Blackout days do apply. This is a great deal if you are a regular traveler to the LA-area.

We then started looking for hotels in the area. We didn't want to spend a ton of time stuck in traffic. Seems being stuck in traffic adds to everyone's stress, and we start the day in a bad mood. That's not what we wanted. But the hotels within walking distance of the park seemed pricey, so I started looking on priceline.com and Hotwire.com. I could see the possibility of a much lower rate, but no guarantee I'd get the hotel I wanted. So then I called one of the hotels — the one that I saw had a complimentary continental breakfast and snacks service in the evening. This could be a huge food savings unless the food wasn't what we wanted to eat.

I let the reservation agent know the lowest rate I saw, and if she could get me something close. She ended up telling me of a deal where the first night is full price, but the second is 40 percent off. The savings was $100 off, so I booked it.

I hoped the food would help cut out dining out bill, and it did. The evening snacks ended up including complimentary wine and beer, and the sampling of food was good. For breakfast, I had two ham croissants with a side of cinnamon oatmeal and Starbucks coffee. My son went to town on pastries. My daughter loved the cereal and fruit. We were all satisfied and only needed to snack at the park before dinner.

As for the evening snacks, there weren't tons, but there was a nice spread of cheeses, veggies and finger foods. Did I mention the free beer and wine? The selection was limited, but the wine and beer were rather nice touches after a long day out.

At the park, we didn't have to deal with shuttles or parking since it was a 5-10 minute walk. Tickets in hand, we only had to stand in the entry line.

We started the day on the lower lot to make sure we hit the Transformers: The Ride 3D. This was one of the new attractions since we last went. We then hit Revenge of the Mummy and Jurassic Park the Ride, both old favorites. Lines were short since it was a Monday, so we did a few repeats.

Then we headed to the upper lot. Happens the Simpson's Ride always seemed to have a 25- to 35-minute wait, so we hopped in. You're entertained by show clips, so the wait doesn't feel as long. We then did the Studio Tour — another attraction with long waits because of the King Kong 360 3-D experience. Very cool! You feel as though you are in the middle of the jungle with Kong and the T-Rex he fights. Another bonus of the tour: Jimmy Fallon offers some funny commentary via video.

We wanted to see House of Horrors, but it was closed. We'll need to return another time for that. Then we made time for the shows we've enjoyed in the past, including Shrek 4D, Special Effects Stage and Terminator 2: 3D. We skipped Waterworld and Animal Actors. Our kids aren't into the kiddie play areas anymore, so the splash pads and foam balls at the Curious George and Dinoplay areas were ignored. They are a lot of fun for all ages, though.

Day Two: We made sure to repeat the four rides we enjoyed most: Studio Tour, Transformers, Mummy and Jurassic Park. We also made time to take a few photos with characters.

Oh, we did hit one big glitch, which could have wrecked the day. Our studio tour was cut short because of a water line break. As we were escorted off the backlot, we paid attention to the daily password given to jump to the front of the

line on the Transformers ride. We also asked (super nicely) to jump the line when we returned to the studio tour. The employee allowed it (I suppose he could have said no), so we got to ride in the front car for the first time. I have to say I like car 3 or 4 best. Don't recall being in car 2.

We left feeling like we got to do everything we wanted. We grabbed a bite before our 6-hour drive home. We also lucked out not having to pay more than $4.49 for a gallon of gas.

Tip: Gas up in Quartzsite, Ariz. Once you hit California, gas shoots up in price. When we went, it was about 75 cents a gallon more.

Cheers!

Avoiding theme park vacation disaster

We just got back from a quick trip to California, as many Arizona families do any chance they can.

We've had our share of intense theme park vacations, but we keep doing them because they can be quite fun, and great for bonding if you don't let the little things ruin the day(s) you spend at the park.

Here's what I've learned:

-Get your child's input. If you just do what you want to do, they will complain. We check out the theme park's website together and list the most important attractions or shows. Then we make sure everyone's top three things get done early in the trip. It takes the pressure off the rest of the trip.

-Know the ride restrictions. If you talk up something and then your child can't get on, expect disappointment. That said, many of the rides for bigger kids have rider-switch options for parents with little ones. While you wait, talk with your child. Find out what he or she wants to do next and if it's reasonable for your family, then go for it. We used to get churros or ice cream after when my daughter was too small for some rides. Letting them pick the next thing to do may make your child feel a little better about missing out on that special ride.

-Don't pack too much into your day. You'll end up with a lot of very tired people, and tired people tend to get grumpy.

-Expect the plan won't be followed. Things happen. Rides may be closed or lines can take longer than planned; a restaurant may have a super long wait or no kids menu; anyone can end up sick or not wanting to cooperate with the plan, etc. Don't stress about it. Laugh it off, if possible. Don't show your kids a parent tantrum. It will only add stress.

-Make time to not do anything and see what happens.

-Bring some favorite games and play as a family when you get back to your room. We pulled out Monopoly during our most recent trip, and we had tons of fun winding down from a busy day.

-Call ahead. If you are doing a specialty dinner and this is a must in your vacation, check if they take reservations. If they don't, then prepare for an alternate.

-That said, have alternates in your plan. Maybe rides aren't all that fun for some in your party. So maybe you cut out of the park early and go to the beach or a dinner show.

-Give your kids some responsibility as they get older. Let them be the official photographer or evening event planner. Make them take turns, too. You'll create conversation for later and lots of memories.

We had one of the best vacations just following these guidelines. The arguing as almost non-existent, and we did everything — including just vegging out at the hotel — that we wanted to do. Loved it!

Cheers!

Walking to get talking

My daughter is at that age where mom is increasingly less cool. Hanging out to talk just doesn't happen as often. So to connect, I've started going on walks with her. Our latest adventure was walking to a nearby coffee/bagel shop. Instead of jumping in the car, we opted for a brisk walk — gotta walk off at least a few of those calories. The walk also gave us an extra 15-20 minutes together.

We're doing walks around our neighborhood, too. I claim it's for exercise, but it's really to spend time together. We talk about nonsense, but also about friends and school.

I force myself to just listen and only advise when she asks for help. I also try not to judge. I do, however, ask questions to make her think about whatever issue she's dealing with at the moment. I'll throw out questions such as:

-How would you feel if that happened to you?

-Why do you think that happened?

-Would you change how you dealt with that issue?

-Were you bothered by how that was handled?

-Did you think that was weird?...Cool? Fun? Worth it?

I also give her kudos for sharing, and if I think she's handled a situation the best way possible.

And if she asks me if I've ever dealt with XYZ, I answer her question with honesty, but also any lessons learned. I'm thinking the questions will be getting harder very soon.

Here's hoping she keeps wanting to go on these walks.

Cheers!

Lovin' the Balloon Fiesta in Albuquerque

I'm a little sad that we aren't making it to Albuquerque this year for the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta. The event runs Oct. 6-14 this year. We love escaping to Northern New Mexico in the fall, especially when temps still hit the century mark in Arizona. The weather is so lovely during the day, though it can be quite chilly in the early morning.

As a family, we love going out to see the balloons. It's fun watching crews prep the balloons. Some are friendly and will answer a curious kid's questions. We play games searching for certain balloons, and we take lots of pics. What's best is talking about our day over dinner. Love that bonding!

When we go, we do get up super early to see the mass ascension. It's hard to do when the kids are little because we leave super early. Traffic can be intense getting over to the field. I think it's just as hard as they get older and complain about rising early. To minimize grumpiness, I just always promise them that they can sleep on the ride and get a treat of their choice. I know this may see like a bad mommy tactic (bribery), but it works.

Other quick tips:

-Check the balloon fiesta's website before going to get details on where to park, food, tickets, etc.

-I like to have everyone layer clothing, as it can be very cold in the morning and then quickly warm up in the afternoon.

-Bring a sealed water bottle and a few easy to pack & carry snacks. It saves money, but it also keeps you from standing in a long line until you have to later when you are buying that treat you promised. They will remind you. :)

-Carry sunscreen and wear sunglasses. It's easy to forget that you'll be out in the sun all day when you leave your home/hotel when it's still dark at 4 a.m. to catch the balloons at sunrise.

-Carpool if possible. There is a lot of traffic, and you pay for parking.

-Bring chairs or a blanket if you don't want to be standing all day.

Cheers!

Hispanic Living magazine is now out

I'm so proud of my contribution to Hispanic Living magazine, published by USA Today. I was asked forever ago to help with story ideas and editing. And now it's finally out.

Why am I proud? Because it has a variety of stories that don't fall into stereotypes. And it features people from a variety of Hispanic cultures. We aren't all the same. What culture is?

It covers cultural connections and traditions, such as making tamales, but it also covers new trends such as the growth in cross-cultural marriages, the expansion of tequila bars, and increasing autism rate among Latinos. Features include the importance of education, keys to financial savvy, and finding business success. And there are plenty of great profiles, such as that of actress/Latino activist Rosario Dawson, Labor Secretary Hilda Solis, and Olympian Marlen Esparza, who came home with a bronze in women's boxing.

It's a little difficult to find, though. My mom searched in Albuquerque and in San Antonio, during a recent trip. And a good friend in Austin said she's not found it. That bums me out. So I'm sharing a link to order the Hispanic Living magazine.

I hope you get it and enjoy reading it as much as I did.

Cheers!

Why we love Disney in October

One of my favorite things to do this time of year is visit Disney. The weather is great and it just doesn't feel as crowded as in the spring.

In Orlando, I love it because of the amazing food and wine festival that takes place at Epcot. When I tallied how much we spent two years ago, I was shocked. We didn't budget for it on our visit. Oops! But, the entire family had a great time tasting a variety of ethnic dishes, drinks and dessert, as well as listening to some great music. Howard Jones and Sister Hazel rocked.

I like the California park for Halloween fun just a little better because of how they really do up Halloween/Christmas at the Haunted Mansion with plenty of pumpkins, wrapped headstones and Jack Skellington. That wasn't the case in Orlando when we went two years ago. I can't remember the reason why, but we were sad about it.

There's also Ghost Galaxy that takes over Space Mountain. We love that ride, but it's just a little better with all the nebula spirits popping up and looking as if they will get us. Then we all pose for the camera. Fun! Plus, we love getting into Halloween.

My absolute favorite activity is Mickey's Halloween Party - celebrated in both Orlando and Anaheim. It's just so much fun. We're looking to do it again before the kids get too old. Ride lines tend to be much shorter, which makes the extra ticket worth it. Current rates are as low as $46 for annual passholders and go up to $69 at the door on Halloween in Anaheim. Rates are $50.95 to $69.95, plus tax, in Orlando.

In Anaheim this year you can get into Disneyland Park up to 3 hours prior to the event's start time, as well as complimentary parking for one vehicle. Expect trick-or-treat stations (candy & healthy treats), a Halloween-themed fireworks spectacular, a Halloween parade, access to nearly all attractions, including all Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy and Haunted Mansion, and lots of Disney characters, including favorite Disney Villains.

In Orlando this year, where the event is called Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at the Magic Kingdom, expect lots of Disney Villains, a Halloween parade and fireworks show, dance parties, candy galore and short ride lines — at least they are short in early October when we went. :)

Oh, I feel as if I need to go back soon. Cheers!

Embracing the Latina inside

I don't like to think of myself as anything other than me.

I don't like labels, so people defining me only by my Hispanic heritage annoy me. Who likes stereotypes anyway?

I love my culture; it's rich in history and has many beautiful aspects. It's part of me and fills me with many great memories, but I don't normally discuss it unless someone else asks. I definitely don't shout it out, and it's not because I'm not proud of who I am. I am.

I've mentioned my Mexican heritage to my kids. I want them to feel proud, especially when there is so much negative sentiment about Hispanics in the news, particularly revolving around immigration. I remember living in the Midwest back in elementary school and being called a "wet back" only because someone learned of my Mexican heritage. My parents were citizens. Hello! It was confusing and hurtful to hear this. I had a long conversation with my parents about stereotypes, racist attitudes and tolerance.

On their dad's side, my kids are a blend of English, German and French. But no one seems to focus on that side.

I don't want anyone making them feel bad about their Hispanic heritage, so I talk up the positives. But we talk about the positives of a lot of different cultures. We all need to be tolerant of our differences. Embrace diversity is a motto of ours. You might learn something.

So I try to share stories about their grandparents and some Hispanic traditions. I want to help them see the beauty of their culture. I've also pointed out that Latinos do great things and can be quite successful. I note politicians, celebs, sports figures and everyday people who are making an impact in their circles. I want them to feel that their heritage isn't an excuse for not finding a path to success.

I've not, however, said that because my kids are partly Hispanic that they must pick up Spanish or traditions. That's really up to them. I'm just sharing what I like about my heritage with them.

So I'm nicely surprised by my daughter wanting to learn to speak Spanish, as well as learn about traditions. My son isn't crazy about learning any language. He'll need to, though, as most colleges seem to require a second language. I've told him Spanish or Mandarin would be great. I think he's leaning toward Spanish so I can help him practice. :)

Some Hispanic friends have asked why I don't make Spanish part of our household. It's the whole "be proud/don't lose your culture" message. I've not forced my kids to speak Spanish because my parents didn't of me. Well, they did tell me I had to take Spanish before French. Spanish made learning French easy.

I learned Spanish because I wanted to learn. Now I want to learn the tradition of making tamales on my own. That's a whole other blog. :) I embrace my heritage because I want to and not because I'm forced to please anyone.

And that's what I hope for my kids.

Cheers!