Friday, April 29, 2016

The 2016 Ford Shelby GT350R

All-Day Track Car That’s Also Street Legal

 



Oma was pretty eager to interview Jim Owens at the 2016 West Palm Beach Barrett Jackson Auction. Owens, a Ford Performance Marketing Manager, heads up the GT350 marketing team. Remarkably, he worked at Shelby American before returning to Ford and knew the legendary Carroll Shelby well. Jim Owen has also been very active with Ford Racing and their NASCAR Program.

Thereby, who better to school me on the 2016 Ford Shelby GT350R? For those of you who are unaware, the 2016 Ford Shelby GT350R is all about performance and Jim Owens was extremely enthusiastic and passionate about this high precision machine.

“This is a Sear Point / Watkins Glen Road Course car; that is more what Carroll Shelby was known for in the sixties,” Jim narrated. “In the next two or three years, it is our goal to get this car in to the hands of people who want to go out on the track. We designed the Ford Shelby GT350R as the most track capable mustang ever!”

After signing the proper releases and blowing into the breathalyzer, Oma was treated to an extremely fast lap around the makeshift track housed behind the auction tents. 

I felt as if I were the co-pilot in a dialed in NASCAR Sprint Cup car on a hot lap.

My driver Stan informed me about the 5.2L modular engine, nicknamed Voodoo, which is running a flat plane crankshaft, giving the engine plenty of RPM and an exotic exhaust note*. 

While I am still not sure what all that actually means, I can tell you that the car accelerates and handles astonishingly. 

I believe we were able to top out at approximately eight-five miles per hour on the constricted course.

The Shelby GT350R also boast of a TREMEC Six-Speed Manual. This transmission is much lighter and stouter than the gearboxes that were offered on previous Mustangs. It appears that every aspect of Shelby GT350R is built for track competency.

Lyn St. James test drove the GT350R,” Owens informed, “when she got out of the car, she stated that this was the first car she would actually take straight from the dealership to the track. . . . . that is what we would like this car to be.”

Incredibly, Jim went on to explain that the drive mode system in the 2016 Ford Shelby GT350R incorporates a collection of different features with an end result that the car can be optimized for a road course, a drag strip, spirited street driving, normal street driving and even wet roads – with Normal, Sport, Weather, Track and Drag modes. Oma was enthralled.

The advantage of this Mustang’s Drive Mode system is to optimize the capabilities and comfort in appropriate situations, while allowing drivers to decide how stiff or how soft they want their high performance American muscle car to be when they hit the road. It is obvious that someone obsessed over getting every detail of design spot-on. 




The original Shelby GT350 was introduced in 1965. This all-new Shelby GT350R Mustang is an amazing world-class performance vehicle, designed to conquer both the street and track. It is attractive in every way and Oma was impressed with both the car’s aesthetics and thrilling performance. I would love to own one!

I am just fan-ish enough to get a pure sense of joy from this vehicle that Carroll Shelby must have felt as he helped shape the history of racing. 


* The 5.2 L TI-VCT V8 engine with flat plane crank produces 526 horsepower at 7500 rpm and 429 pound-feet of torque at 475. It harbors in its belly a flat-plane crankshaft with throws spaced every 180 degrees, like a four-cylinder—and also like a Ferrari V-8.

Thursday, April 28, 2016

Frazoni Silicone Baking Mat #FrazoniSiliconeBakingMat


Make Your Baking Easier

 



The Frazoni Silicone Baking Mat can be placed on a baking sheet to replace parchment paper or aluminum foil. You can also use it directly on the oven rack. They are very easy to clean; no more scrubbing or soaking. They are dishwasher safe.

Besides baking, you can use the mat to bake vegetables, meat, fish, cheese and so much more. The mat is also great for kneading pizza, bread, or even pie dough. The dough doesn't stick to the mat and, although you still need to use flour to incorporate into the dough, you don't have to worry as much about sticky dough clinging to the kneading surface.

Silicone Baking Mats are not new. Professional bakers have been using them for years. Today, they are becoming a common piece of cookware at home. It is safe to use up to 480 degrees.



Product Description



  • SAVE MONEY AND TIME: completely nonstick pad; Replaces sprays, grease, foil, parchment paper and other liners; Clean it easily by hand or in the dishwasher.
  • BAKE BETTER AND HEALTHIER : no extra grease needed to avoid sticking; Bakes evenly, distributes heat, and protects food from burning; FDA approved materials.
  • PROFESSIONAL GRADE: goes to the oven, microwave and freezer; Can be used from -40°F to 480°F; Great working surface for dough, candy, chocolate and more.
  • PERFECTLY SIZED AND HANDY: 11-1/32 x 16-17/32 inches; Fits US Half Size baking sheets; Flexible, practical and easy to handle; Lifetime Guarantee.
  • ORDER FOR YOU AND YOUR FRIENDS: named by professional chefs as an essential for any kitchen. Limited time promotion: buy 2, get 10% off; buy 3, get 15% off; buy 4, get 20% off - enter code XTV73ZMD at checkout.




A Small, Family Owned Business

Frazoni Website






Giveaway


“Oma Loves U!” has teamed up with Frazoni to conduct a giveaway for her blog readers. One lucky fan will win a Frazoni Silicone Baking Mat (ARV $6.00).

Just use the easy Rafflecopter form below to enter.


*Giveaway open in USA only for 18+.*
*Giveaway ends 05/09/2015*



Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show

Sparkles with Great Finds 

By Stacey Kuhns


 The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns

April 23-24, 2016, the Palomar Gem and Mineral Club (PGMC)  put on their annual show, held at the Escondido Performing Arts Center  (in what used to be the museum before it closed). The PGMC is located at 2120 W. Mission Rd., #S, Escondido, CA, 92029.

My boyfriend and I attended the show this weekend and last year around the same time. The volunteers who staff the show from the PGMC provide a wealth of information to any rock or gem hobbyist or admirer. There are a good number of vendors with anything from raw gems and stones to jewelry, fossils, shells, and other assorted items.

The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns

The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns


I would not recommend this show for very young children as there are a lot of delicate specimens around that can be easily broken. There are also minerals and rocks with sharp edges that can cause injury. But with that said, if you have a youngster who is a real rock/gem hound, I would suggest giving them $20 or more ahead of time so they can have their own money to spend at the show. This will hopefully give them more of an opportunity to walk around and really see what there is to offer at the different booths.

Many of the items are in the hundreds and thousands, but there are plenty of vendors who have a huge variety of rocks and gems for $1-$4 each, which is a real bargain. (And yes, my boyfriend and I scored some excellent items from these less expensive vendors).

The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns

The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns

The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns


There are rocks and gems from all parts of the globe which makes it even more interesting to read the cards for each items. Some of the items are sold by the gram, others by the carat, and others just with a base cost. This is also a place where you can try and bargain with the vendors. Some go for it, and some don't but it is always worth a try. Also, cash is preferred. Most vendors take credit cards, but it costs less with cash as there are no added charges. Some even take checks with proper ID.

The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns

The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns

The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns

The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns

The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns

The PGMC has a booth near the back, staffed by volunteers,
who will identify gems for you at no charge!


I saw people bringing in family heirlooms, such as rings and other items to find out if the stones were precious stones or not. They also have many demonstrations going on and my boyfriend, who makes jewelry out of polished stones, learned how to wire wrap larger stones to make interesting necklaces, something he has wanted to learn for a while.

The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns

The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns


Also, joining the PGMC is a great way to meet people who have the same interests and can provide all sorts of information about rock and gem hunting, polishing, and anything else you could think of to ask them. Their website is currently under construction, but I believe they meet on the third Wed of each month in Escondido. They also have a place off Nordahl where you can go and use their equipment if you are a member. That is $7 for four hours of use which is awesome!

The rock and gem shows in San Diego County are always amazing. The pictures do not do the specimens justice. Touching and feeling many of the items is part of the experience. Everyone is very friendly and willing to answer any questions. There are a number of upcoming gem and mineral shows in San Diego County. Check the internet for all upcoming shows. A great experience for rock hounds, young and old. 


The Palomar Gem and Mineral Club Show by Stacey Kuhns


Wednesday, April 27, 2016

Festival Under The Lights #welkresorts

Family Fun Close to Home


We oft times forget the joys closest to us. Mom Amanda and Oma decided to spend Tuesday afternoon at the Welk’s Resort a short four miles from the homestead.

The Boulder Spring Pool area is designed for especially for kid fun. There are two shallow pools, a water splash pad, a small playground and a Jacuzzi. Mom, Reef, Coast and Oma had a blast. There is even a small snack shack that serves alcoholic beverages. Opa and Dad joined us as soon as they were done with their work day.

After spending a couple of hours soaking up the sun in the Boulder Springs Pool area, we were off to the ‘Festival Under The Lights.’ On Tuesdays, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the resort provides live music and a build your own pasta bar. Gourmet S’Mores are also available for purchase for dessert.

There was plenty of seating and some shade. It was the perfect way to enjoy family and the Southern California Sunshine.


Festival Under The Lights #welkresorts

Festival Under The Lights #welkresorts

Festival Under The Lights #welkresorts

Festival Under The Lights #welkresorts

Festival Under The Lights #welkresorts




About Welk’s Resort: In 1964, Lawrence Welk went for a drive in the country north of San Diego, California planning to invest in a grove of orange trees. Instead he bought a motel and a nine-hole golf course. After Welk staged one of his shows at the site, it became a popular tourist spot and grew to include a theatre, more golf and eventually timeshare.

Today, the Welk Group operates Interval International (II) premier timeshare properties in San Diego, Palm Springs and Cabo San Lucas, as well as a theatre and Resort Hotel in Branson. These resorts have been honored with Gold Crown status by Resort Condominiums International, a major worldwide vacation exchange organization.

Welk’s Facebook


Welk’s Instagram


Thursday, April 21, 2016

Glass Teapot Tea Infuser with Warmer #willowandeverett

Glass Teapot Tea Infuser with Warmer  #willowandeverett

I love my cup of tea all through the day. Along with being delicious, tea offer numerous health benefits. It contains antioxidant that help the body fight harmful free radicals that can lead to cancer and heart disease. Tea also contains flavonoids that restrict the buildup of cholesterol and help with blood vessel functionality.

Part of the pleasure of tea is its presentation. I love glass tea pots. This glass tea infuser is not only of very high quality, it is cute and stylish. Perfect for your personal tea brewing or as the centerpiece for your tea party. You can microwave your water directly in the glass teapot for expediency. I also love the fact that the infuser is rust free.


Product Description



Sometimes having a cup of tea is simply about a quick and convenient pick me up. Other times, it’s an opportunity to linger, savor the moment, enjoy good company or truly relax. This Willow & Everett elegant teapot infuser delivers on all of these things with every cup of tea you brew. The included custom fit cozy zips up snugly around your teapot keeping your tea warm until you, and your friends, are ready for the next cup. No more rushing through tea time or constantly having to remicrowave your tea!

  • HIGH-QUALITY HAND BLOWN GLASS AND STAINLESS STEEL - This elegant microwavable glass and stainless steel 40 ounce teapot is made from premium materials and is designed with convenience and great design in mind. Large enough for brewing 4-5 cups of tea it's the perfect kitchen accessory for hosting guests or brewing up custom cups. This makes a great gift for Christmas, Mother's Day, Birthdays or Anniversaries!
  • MICROWAVABLE FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE - Because this tea kettle is all glass (with removeable stainless steel parts), brewing up a custom cup (or two!) of tea has never been easier. Simply fill with water, remove the lid and stainless steel infuser and pop it in the microwave to boil your water. This teapot eliminates the need to boil water separately and lets you do everything right in one teapot!
    Glass Teapot Tea Infuser with Warmer  #willowandeverett
  • SPILL-FREE LID AND RUST-FREE INFUSER - A well designed stainless steel lid locks into place and ensures water doesn't leak out of your tea maker. The brushed stainless steel accent looks great in any kitchen, is easy to wipe clean and adds elegance to your kitchen table. A removable 18/8 stainless steel mesh infuser is rust-free and allows you to steep any type of loose tea leaves and brew your tea to any desired strength.
  • CUSTOM FIT TEA COZY KEEPS YOUR TEA WARM - Whether you're alone or with friends, sometimes lingering over a cup of tea is just what you need. Now, with the included black custom fit cozy that zips securely around your teapot to keep it warm there's no need to rush through your pot of tea or constantly reheat it!
  • CUSTOMER GUARANTEE We're confident you'll love our Glass and Stainless Steel Teapot Infuser. However, if you're not completely satisfied, we'll give you a 100% refund within 90 days of purchase--NO QUESTIONS ASKED. We have the best customer service on Amazon, and YOU, the customer, are our top priority. Add a teapot to your shopping cart today for a risk-free tea brewing experience!


This glass tea infuser is not only of very high quality, it is cute and stylish. Perfect for your personal tea brewing or as the centerpiece for your tea party. You can microwave your water directly in the glass teapot for expediency. I also love the fact that the infusher is rust free.


Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe would be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Wednesday, April 20, 2016

The Smith Boys Cool Off at the Pala Casino Pool

As the weather in Valley Center, California reached an uncharacteristic ninety degrees, the Smith Brothers took advantage of the pool at the Pala Casino and Resort for a bit of cooling off fun. Pala’s pool is perfect for those sizzling Southern California Days. 


The Smith Boys Cool Off at the Pala Casino Pool

The Smith Boys Cool Off at the Pala Casino Pool

The Smith Boys Cool Off at the Pala Casino Pool

The Smith Boys Cool Off at the Pala Casino Pool

The Smith Boys Cool Off at the Pala Casino Pool

The Smith Boys Cool Off at the Pala Casino Pool

The Smith Boys Cool Off at the Pala Casino Pool

Tuesday, April 19, 2016

A New Journey Begins

by Stacey Kuhns

Henson, the Service Dog

Hi everyone. So this time I am not reviewing a restaurant or a hidden gem in San Diego or Los Angeles counties. I am going to take you on a journey with me as I experience it.

As many of you know from my prior guest blogs, I am disabled. I am still independent but as the years go by, it has become more difficult to perform some simple daily tasks. I have several medical specialists who monitor my care, but things seemed to be deteriorating and I live in pain 24/7. As you have seen from my prior blogs, I get out and do as much as I can and enjoy life as much as I can. I want to be happy and make memories. I want to experience life.

I also began to wonder if all the medications I take are really helping me as much as medical professionals think. I decided to take advantage of a referral from one of my specialists to explore acupuncture.

On the referral of a prior patient, I connected with David Stoeber, L.Ac. He is the owner of North County Wellness, located in San Marcos. David is a chronic pain specialist. He has been dealing with chronic pain patients for years and has a deep understanding of the diseases and holistic methods used to assist in alleviating pain.

We met and he spent time getting to know me, my symptoms and primary concerns, and took the time to answer all my questions. I have been going to him weekly and Anna Kaplan, has been amazing in following my acupuncture sessions with light touch massage. I have noticed a difference and I feel David and the staff at North County Wellness really know their stuff.

During one of the sessions, I was discussing the difficulties I have experience with the diseases I have. David suggested a service dog. That was like a bomb going off in my brain. A service dog? For me? A chronic pain patient? David said he had several patients with the same issues get service dogs and they were helped tremendously.

I began researching this because taking on a dog is a huge commitment for someone who has days where she is barely able to walk. I talked with professionals in the service dog community and made the decision to move forward with this.

I don't want to ramble on about this, but on May 1, I will be bringing home Henson. He and I will spend two years training for him to be certified as my service dog.

Meet Henson:





I am very excited to start on this journey with him. I believe he will be a great help to me physically and emotionally, and as an avid animal person, I know he will have a loving home always. Stay tuned for our escapades, beginning May 1, when eight week old Henson comes home with me.




Nine-Month-Old
Coast Oak

Coast Oak turns nine months old and is cute as a button.



He has four teeth and loves to eat.  Coast is also display a tendency to be very verbal. 

Friday, April 8, 2016

Day at the Beach
Southern California Life

San Diego County is known for our gorgeous beaches. With seventy miles of pristine coastline, year-around sunshine and mild temperatures, you can enjoy the surf and sand almost any day of the year.

The fresh air inherent to a beach outing is wonderful for kids of all ages.










Reasons a Parent Should Care About Fresh Air: 

  1. Stronger bones and lower cancer risk: Today’s “indoor kids” don’t get enough sun and are becoming Vitamin D deficient, causing health risks.
  2. Trimmer and more healthy kids: An hour of play a day is what doctors say is a basic tool in the effort to ward off childhood obesity and diabetes.
  3. Improved eyesight: Recent studies find that kids who get outdoor time have less nearsightedness and need for eye glasses.
  4. Less depression and hyperactivity: Outdoor time in natural setting (even tree-lined streets) soothes kids and lower their need for medications.
  5. Longer attention spans: Children who stare at TV and video games all day have less patience and shorter attention spans.
  6. Better at making friends: Children playing together outdoors relate directly with one another, create games together, choose sides and improve their “people” skills.
  7. More creative: Outdoor kids are more likely to use their own imaginations, inventions and creativity while playing.
  8. Less “acting out” at home and school: Getting kids away from TV violence and video games helps them see that violent behavior does not always solve problems.
  9. Measurably better grades in school: The healthy bodies and minds that come with outdoor play are better able to do well in school.
  10. A longer lifespan and healthier adult life: Doctors estimate that sedentary and obese children lose three to five years from their life expectancy.