Search Results for: blog twist water with a twist

Winter Visits to Water Parks

I never understood why some people visit indoor water parks during the summer. I suppose if you are afraid of getting sunburned, then indoor water parks come in handy. Also, you never have to worry about your vacation being rained out if you book a room at an indoor water park. Still, in my opinion, winter is the best time of the year to visit an oasis of watery fun. And with more than 215 water park resorts open in 35 states, you won’t have trouble finding one to splash around in. Some of my top picks include: Wilderness Resort … Continue reading →

3 Fun Classic Games Turned Into Water Games

Most kids love to play games. There are dozens of classic games that have been around for years if not centuries. Wouldn’t it be fun if you could figure out a way to add some water to these classic games to make a perfect and fun way to beat the heat? Here are a few classic games, now with a twist of added water. Duck, Duck, Splash This is the water rendition of “Duck, Duck, Goose”. My children have been playing this since they were old enough to enjoy the original. You will need a large car washing sponge (available … Continue reading →

Cultural Smorgasbord—-Mexican Rib Eye Steaks and German Brats with a Twist

I grew up in Hawaii, which is well known for its cultural diversity and equally varied cuisines. In the Aloha State it’s not unusual to have a breakfast of Japanese rice, Portuguese sausage and Hawaiian sweetbread; lunch of Filipino Chicken Adobo and Chinese noodles; and dinner consisting of Italian pasta and kalbi (Korean short ribs). As we countdown to Independence Day I thought it would be appropriate to salute our nation’s wonderfully rich cuisine with the following ethnic dishes that can be easily grilled up for a classic Fourth of July picnic. The first recipe features an All-American rib eye … Continue reading →

Super Summer Fun: Wet and Wild Waterparks (Florida)

What would a trip to Florida be without visiting one of the areas many waterparks? The Sunshine State is home to more major waterparks than any other state in the entire country. It makes sense given that the region sees some the hottest year round temperatures than any other state in the nation. If you are planning a summer road trip to the sticky south you might consider making a pit stop to cool off at the following Florida attractions. They are wet, wild and filled with wonderful ways to beat the scorching summer heat: ORLANDO Aquatica by SeaWorld is … Continue reading →

Super Summer Fun: Wet and Wild Waterparks (South)

Ask any kid who loves flying through wet spiraling tunnels at breakneck speeds where he or she would like to spend a sweltering hot summer day and you’ll likely be met with the same response: WATERPARK. Wet and wild fun is yours for the taking at waterparks throughout the country. From gigantic water havens connected to popular amusement parks to more modest waterparks that cater to hometown crowds, the following Southern picks are sure to please your entire family during the dog days of summer: GEORGIA Six Flags White Water in Atlanta is home to one of the most notable … Continue reading →

Fourth of July Picnic Favorites: Super Steak Sandwiches and Strawberry Watermelon Salad

You don’t have to host a backyard blowout to show your pride for our wonderful country this Fourth of July. Rather, a simple family picnic can be just as patriotic. Just remember to pack enough mouthwatering creations for the entire clan and then sit back and watch others set off colorful fireworks as you dine on your delectable dishes. Some of my family’s favorites are listed below. The first is my dad’s signature sandwich. It features one of his all-time favorite ingredients—-steak. But not only do the toppings for this kicked up sandwich complement the star ingredient, the type of … Continue reading →

Watermelon Spinach Salad with Poppy Seed Vinaigrette

This recipe is the result of a search for salads that didn’t require tomatoes. Because we live in the inner city and our grocery store is not necessarily of great quality (nor do we own a car to go somewhere and buy tomatoes locally), we have decided to forego tomatoes on our food right now! However, my kids don’t like cucumbers, and a salad with just lettuce and dressing is a little boring. Consequently, I turned to my greener friend–spinach. There is nothing more appealing than a spinach salad speckled with brightly colored in season fruit. There’s something about the … Continue reading →

Shel Silverstein’s Underwater Land – CD Review

Brush off those imaginations and have a listen to Shel Silverstein’s Underwater Land. Think about a land where the stars are starfish, and the skies are green, where you never have to wash your face and hands. This delightful recording won the 2003 Parent’s Choice Foundation Gold Award. Pat Dailey, legendary Key West singer, and recorder of thirteen albums brings life to Silverstein’s words. And Silverstein jumps in, too. Pat Dailey has a marvelous warm voice. Their fun comes through the recording. I just know they had a great time producing it. All the songs are based on the ocean, … Continue reading →

What Can You Do With Coffee? Some DELICIOUS Twists

These coffee variations are soothing, comforting, and perfect for a get-together or a cozy night at home. And if you’re looking for a gift to give someone, make sure you read the coffee blends at the bottom of the blog. You can combine the ingredients and store them in airtight containers for several months. So go ahead, package some up and give them away as gifts—you’ll make new friends in no time! Iced Spice Coffee 6 cups strained coffee 24 whole cloves 1 (5 inch) stick of cinnamon ¾ cup heavy cream, whipped and sweetened Add spices to the coffee … Continue reading →

Summer Bites

Backyard barbeques, picnics in the park, swimming, sunning, and swinging with friends until sunset; there’s so much to love about summer—minus the bugs. Despite the use of expensive sprays, fancy candles and other popular pest deterrents, my 8-year-old is covered with bug bites.  Living in northern Wisconsin, which is blanketed with forests and other havens for flying blood suckers, doesn’t help; however, this summer’s battle against the bugs seems to be a bit fiercer than in years past. Currently, my mom radar is set on mass insect detection.  I am on especially high alert for deer ticks, which can spread … Continue reading →