A Different Fruit A Day Personal Health Challenge

This seems the era of challenges. Oma decided to do a challenge for fitness. Oma dared herself to consume and photograph one different fruit every day for the month of September. Many do not know the difference between a fruit and a vegetable; nor the benefits of eating fruits. 

Local and Organic - Once harvested, the produce is usually delivered
directly to theJimbo’s stores, thereby maximizing freshness and quality,
and minimizing the carbon footprint.

Botanically speaking, a fruit is a seed-bearing structure that develops from the ovary of a flowering plant, whereas vegetables are all other plant parts, such as roots, leaves and stems. By those standards, seedy outgrowths such as apples, squash and, tomatoes are all fruits, while roots such as beets, potatoes and turnips, leaves such as spinach, kale and lettuce, and stems such as celery and broccoli are all vegetables.

All most everyone has heard the saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.”

According to the research published in the British Medical Journal by researchers at Oxford University, 8,500 deaths from heart attacks and strokes could be prevented in those over 50 in the UK just by eating one apple per day.

That study also indicates that those who choose to eat an apple could gain the same benefits as those who opt for the drug, statin, which reduces the cholesterol in the body.

The goal of this experiment is to educate while renewing this easy augmentation to a healthy menu.

Padres Vs. Dodgers Reef Indy's Second MLB Game

 Reef Indy, with his parents and Oma and Opa, attended his second baseball game. 

The evening started with a stop at one of our favorite restaurants, the Tilted Kilt at 5:00 p.m. and ended around midnight after Yasmani Grandal singled in the winning run with two outs in the 12th inning! The San Diego Padres beat the NL West-leading Los Angeles Dodgers 3-2 in extra innings. 

It was just a short walk from the Parking Lot to the Tilted Kilt. Reef Indy walked almost the entire day. We did have to take a short delay for Reef to experience the pigeons along the way. 

Dad and Mom enjoying the festive atmosphere of the Tilted Kilt. The Kilt has everything from ice cold beer to a mouthwatering menu full of the pub fare. The place was packed, but our service was still attentive and fast.

Reef and his Opa enjoyed all the happenings at Petco Park.

Petco Park is an open-air ballpark in downtown San Diego, California, USA. It opened in 2004, replacing Jack Murphy/Qualcomm Stadium as the home park of Major League Baseball's San Diego Padres.

Reef Indy was able to play with the soft baseball an Usher gave him.  He and Opa played with it for an hour before it accidentally fell off of the Western Metal Building Rooftop.

Reef is eager to share his cheese crackers. 

Our view from our seating atop of The Western Metal Supply Co. building. This building is a hundred-year old brick structure that had been scheduled for demolition to make way for Petco Park, but was saved and incorporated into the design of the ballpark. 

The building was renovated and contains the team store, private suites, a restaurant and rooftop seating. The southeast corner of the building serves as the left field foul pole, and is protected by a strip of bright yellow angle iron.

Dad shows off his Mr. Padre (Tony Gwynn) #19 Jersey.

Reef Indy finally falls asleep for a much needed nap in the 5th inning.

We were guests of Scott Peck, CPA & Associates. They are a North San Diego County CPA firm dedicated to providing the best service and the value added bonus of an accessible and friendly staff! 

Goodies From Dole

When Oma returned from a midday hike; she was greeted by a huge and heavy FedEx box. I was not expecting anything . . . . .

Imagine my joy when I found that the box was filled with Dole Frozen Goodies.

• Dole Shakers ( Mixed Berry, Strawberry, Pineapple Mango, Strawberry Banana, Peach Mango, Blue Power { Fruit & Veggie Smooth with Greek Yogurt} and Red Power {Fruit & Veggie Smoothie with Greek Yogurt})
  
• Dole Frozen Fruit (Sliced Strawberries, Mango Chunks*, Strawberries & Blueberries Mix)
  
• Dole Dark Chocolate Dippers (Banana, Strawberry, and Banana with Almonds)

Can’t wait to try theses – love it when the only ingredient in the frozen Mangos re-sealable bag is “Mangos!”

#GetFrozen Will review the products as soon as I taste them!

The Green Thing

This is just too good not to repost: 

Checking out at the store, the young cashier suggested to the older woman that she should bring her own grocery bags because plastic bags weren't good for the environment.c The woman apologized and explained, "We didn't have this green thing back in my earlier days."

The clerk responded, "That's our problem today. Your generation did not care enough to save our environment for future generations."

She was right - our generation didn't have the green thing in its day.

Back then, we returned milk bottles, soda bottles and beer bottles to the store. The store sent them back to the plant to be washed and sterilized and refilled, so it could use the same bottles over and over. So, they really were recycled ... but we didn't have the green thing back in our day.

We walked up stairs, because we didn't have an escalator in every store and office building. We walked to the grocery store and didn't climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time we had to go two blocks. But she was right ...we didn't have the green thing in our day.

Back then, we washed the baby's diapers because we didn't have the throw-away kind. We dried clothes on a line, not in an energy-gobbling machine burning up 220 volts - wind and solar power really did dry our clothes back in our early days. Kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters, not always brand-new clothing. But that young lady is right ... we didn't have the green thing back in our day.

Back then, we had one TV, or radio, in the house - not a TV in every room. And the TV had a small screen the size of a handkerchief (remember them?), not a screen the size of the state of Montana. In the kitchen, we blended and stirred by hand because we didn't have electric machines to do everything for us. When we packaged a fragile item to send in the mail, we used wadded up old newspapers to cushion it, not Styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap. Back then, we didn't fire up an engine and burn gasoline just to cut the lawn. We used a push mower that ran on human power. We exercised by working, so we didn't need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity. But she's right ... we didn't have the green thing back then.

We drank from a fountain when we were thirsty instead of using a cup or a plastic bottle every time we had a drink of water. We refilled writing pens with ink instead of buying a new pen, and we replaced the razor blades in a razor instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade got dull. But we didn't have the green thing back then.

Back then, people took the streetcar or a bus, and kids rode their bikes to school or walked instead of turning their moms into a 24-hour taxi service. We had one electrical outlet in a room, not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances. And we didn't need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 2,000 miles out in space in order to find the nearest pizza joint.

But isn't it sad that the current generation laments how wasteful we old folks were, just because we didn't have the green thing back then?

Harvest Snaps Enhances Dinner #HarvestSnapsFan

In addition to its great taste, Oma loves how easy Harvest Snaps is to use. Now you can substitute your preferred flavor of Snapea Crisps or Lentil Snaps for the less healthy potato chips or French fries side dish.

Quick – Easy – Healthy = Harvest Snaps is Guilt Free!

Visit Harvest Snaps’ Social Media and tell them that “Oma Loves U!”

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

 

This post was created in partnership with Harvest Snaps. I have been compensated for this post. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.


#HarvestSnapsFan

Brunello Di Montalcino 2006 La Mannella

Oma was so busy at a recent party; she did not notice who brought the bottle of Brunello Di Montalcino. Opening the bottle a few days later, Oma did not know what to expect.

This red is of the Sangiovese Varietal and Robert Parker's Wine Advocate rates it 93 points.

The "La Mannella" farm, owned by the Cortonesi family, covers a surface of 56 hectars, 8 of which especially devoted to the production of "Brunello di Montalcino", 2 to olive trees, and the remaining ones occupied by pasture and forest.

Its wine-making activity started at the beginning of the seventies, and its vineyards are placed in one of the most valuable areas of the region, both north and south-east from Montalcino. It is a young company, in fact their first bottled vintage is from 1990. It is strictly a family business.

And works according to the tradition, employing also modern technologies, that help enhancing the quality of the products made. The favourable location of its vineyards, and the rocky soil where they are planted, all contribute to the making of a deep and elegant Brunello, suited also for a long ageing.

The 2006 Brunello di Montalcino flows from the glass with sweet red cherries, tobacco, spices and crushed flowers. There is an attractive radiance to the fruit that makes the wine fairly approachable today, yet the vibrant acidity suggests it will age quite well. Hints of licorice add complexity on the clean finish. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2024. 

Oma found this wine very flavorful with the taste of dried cherries and hints of plums and citrus. So if you brought this wine to me – Thanks so much.

Also if you know where I can buy some more 2006 La Mannella Brunello Di Montalcino. Leave me a comment if you know where to purchase it!

Dreambaby® Adhesive Mag Lock® Review + Giveaway

Reef Indy is not only walking, he is running! Time for Oma and Opa to “kid proof” the homestead a tad. Therefore, Oma was thrilled to be given the opportunity to review the Dreambaby® Adhesive Mag Lock® 

Founded in 1983, Dreambaby® is an internationally renowned child safety brand 983, available in more than 80 countries. Their extensive range of products is specifically designed to provide parents and caregivers with modern home safety solutions that make it easy to help keep children safe in and around the home. Dreambaby®’s products are designed to not only help make your home safer, but also to make life easier.

Initially they sold their products in Australia and New Zealand, in about 6,000 outlets including DIY Home Improvement stores, mass merchants, grocery, drug, specialist and independent stores. However, since 2000 they have exported Dream Baby® worldwide.

Product Description:

The NEW to market Dreambaby® Adhesive Mag Lock® takes the existing Mag Lock® range to the next level. it is ideal for renters, holiday makers, family day care providers and even grandparents as it provides the convenience of engaging, disengaging, installing and taking off these locks when and where needed!

The Dreambaby® Mag Lock® Magnetic Locking System is a renowned and patented, one-of-a-kind safety tool that is very simple to use and is the ultimate child safety lock on the market. The Mag Lock® is hidden inside your cupboards and drawers – safely out of the way of curious children. Once in place, these locks can only be released with the use of the powerful Mag Lock® Magnetic Key. Ordinary fridge magnets will not open the lock. Now with the added benefit of being able to easily remove and re-install, the Dreambaby® Mag Lock® Magnetic Locking System, is a MUST-HAVE lock for anyone who needs to lock doors, drawers and cupboards on a regular basis.

Dreambaby® Adhesive Mag Lock® include;

• Additional screws, giving you the option of installing your Dreambaby® Adhesive Mag Lock® more permanently.
• Easy-to-read templates to ensure you position and install your locks in the right place, without the stress of measuring and calculations.

 

Available in a range of options including;

• Dreambaby® Adhesive Mag Lock® 8 locks & 1 key (L859) – MSRP $32.99
• Dreambaby® Adhesive Mag Lock® 4 locks & 1 key (L855) MSRP $26.99
• Dreambaby® Adhesive Mag Lock® 2 locks & 1 key (L856) – MSRP $16.99
• Dreambaby® Adhesive Mag Lock® 1 key (L857) – MSRP $10.00
• Dreambaby® Adhesive Mag Lock® 4 locks (L858) MSRP $22.99

Oma loves the fact that while you can use screws to fasten the Dreambaby® Adhesive Mag Lock®; there is a less permanent adhesive option. Also, Oma loves that these gadgets are hidden and virtually invisible.

This product works just as advertised and supplies peace of mind when Oma babysits Reef Indy.

One lucky “Oma Loves U!” reader now has the opportunity to win their very own set of Dreambaby® Adhesive Mag Lock® 4 locks & 1 key (L855) MSRP $26.99

Enter through rafflecopter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Connect With Dreambaby®

Dreambaby’s Website

Facebook

Twitter

YouTube

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Create a #Lunchspiration to #Win $1,000

I created a fun kid lunch with #Lunchspiration & entered to win $1000 from @harvestsnaps! Make your own> http://t.co/tCKAC24szT
— z. Smith (@zwriter) August 24, 2014

This post was created in partnership with Harvest Snaps. I have been compensated for this post. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Related Posts:

Now you can indulge in guilt-free snacking!

Harvest the Power of Nature 

#HarvestSnapsFan

Helping Hand Review #helpinghand

The “Helping Hand” by iStand allows you to see your phone or small Tablet and operate it with one hand while doing other things with the other. For example: Keep one on your kitchen counter while cooking or on your desk while paying bills or answering emails or place it in an empty cup holder in your vehicle, boat or RV.

The "Sticky pad" that comes with the "Helping Hand" model will hold a small Tablet as well as a phone in your vehicle. If you have a newer vehicle with a push button start, use the "Helping Hand" to hold your keys.

 

Product Description

The Helping Hand will hold your phone or tablet securely on your desk, kitchen counter or in your car, truck or boat without moving or breakable parts! It's made of heavy duty ABS plastic and comes with a washable sticky pad. Use it also to hold your phone while making a video by simply turning the HH on it's side and sticking the phone to the sticky pad. Available in black or white. White is perfect for your boat!

• Use on your Boat
• Use next to your keyboard on your desk.
• Or on your desk
• Washable sticky pad
• Use in a car, boat, truck, RV or minivan's cup holder. 

To be honest, originally, Oma thought, “when would I ever use this product” However, after using it, the Helping Hand really comes in handy; especially in the kitchen. Oma is forever losing her cell phone when cooking. The Helping Hand allows Oma to locate my cell phone quickly and keep it above liquid spills. 

Additionally, using Helping Hand in the car is much better than throwing your phone on the passenger seat. No longer will my phone slide to the floor and under the seat!

Website

Facebook

Disclosure: The above item was received in order to facilitate review. I have not been compensated for this post. The “Oma Loves U!” blog will always provide honest opinions, beliefs or experiences on products reviewed. We will only recommend products or services that we feel are of benefit to our readers.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Now you can indulge in guilt-free snacking! #HarvestSnapsFan

Oma has had the opportunity to try all six varieties of Harvest Crisps & Snaps pouches!

If you have not heard, Harvest Snaps  are a “good-for-you” snack that combines taste, quality and simplicity. They are baked, gluten-free, high in fiber and protein, yet low in sodium and fat.

The Snapea Crisps are made with all-natural peas; while the Lentil Snaps are packed with authentic lentils.

Compared to regular potato chips Harvest Snaps have:

• less fat and sodium
• higher levels of protein and fiber
• gluten-free (Harvest Snaps are made in a facility that also manufactures products containing wheat, milk, soy, shrimp and fish.)
• lower glycemic index
•  more vitamin B

All the Harvest Snap products had a pleasant constancy and no annoying after taste. 

Oma liked all the flavors. 

However, Snapea Crisps: Lightly Salted proved to be Oma’s least favorite. It was a tad bland.

The Lentil Snaps: Onion Thyme are Oma’s favorite. Sweet yet tangy, Onion Thyme was very flavorful. Harvest Snaps are a great Grain-free snack.

Harvest Snaps are perfect to pack into kid's lunchboxes and/or for a roadtrip. This hale and hearty snack is a healthy alternative to fried chips or french fries. 

The only improvement Oma would suggest is to make the packaging a re-sealable bag.

Want to Win

You have until 09/02/2014 to create your own own Lunchspiration Bento Box for the chance to win $1,000 for school or Harvest Snaps swag! One winner will be chosen every week. Enter every week for your chance to win.

Harvest Snaps Social Media:

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Oma was thrilled to find Harvest Snaps at her local grocery store this weekend. 

“Jimbo’s…Naturally!” strives to provide their customers with the highest quality natural foods available. That means no refined sugars, avoidance of GMOs and no hydrogenated oils, just to name a few!

If Harvest Snaps are sold at Jimbo’s, Oma trusts that they are healthy!

Related Posts:

Harvest the Power of Nature 

Harvest Snaps
 

This post was created in partnership with Harvest Snaps. I have been compensated for this post. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

 #HarvestSnapsFan

Garcinia Cambogia Review Sonora Nutrition #garciniacambogia

Experts agree, the higher the percentage of HCA, the better the results. Sonora Nutrition 80% HCA Garcinia Cambogia Extreme Weight Loss Formula is the strongest and highest quality formula available anywhere today.

Garcinia Cambogia has been found to increase metabolism, balance cholesterol levels, burn existing fat and prevent the absorption of new fat, making it ideal for those who want to lose weight or those looking to make lean muscle gains without putting on additional weight.

The product is 100% pure, using vegetarian capsules with no fillers, binders or unnecessary ingredients, so users know that the huge 1400mg dosage is purely the active ingredient, which has been distilled by Sonora Nutrition to an industry leading potency.

The new product has been so well reviewed by early users that the company has now introduced an unbeatable 365 day money back satisfaction guarantee, so that users can rest assured they will see the results they want from using the product without any risk of a scam.

Garcinia Cambogia is a small, pumpkin-shaped fruit. Numerous companies, and
even Dr. Oz have made claims that the rind of this plant may help aid in weight loss.

The natural extract, hydroxycitric acid (HCA), is the ingredient that blocks fat production and turns fat into glycogen, and is also said to increase lean muscle mass. Garcinia Cambogia is also supposed to act as an appetite suppressant.

REVIEW

Oma took two Sonora Nutrition Garcinia Cambogia with every meal, breakfast, lunch and dinner, with lots of water. Honestly, Oma did not lose any weight. However, considering August was chocked full of celebrations and food, not gaining weight must be considered a plus!

However the Garcinia Cambogia did wonders to curb Oma’s to cravings for goodies or snacks! Also Oma’s energy level improved. Oma still needs to work on portion control and will continue using Sonora Nutrition Garcinia Cambogia to assist with that.

About Sonora Nutrition

Sonora Nutrition creates unbeatable weight loss and health related products. Their latest release is an industry leading 80% HCA Garcinia Cambogia supplement available exclusively through the Amazon Marketplace, featuring the highest quantity of pills with the highest dosages of the most concentrated garcinia cambogia of any product on the market.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Reef Indy's Skateboarding Debut

Reef Indy debuts his skateboarding skills in his first "Skateboard Exhibit"

Reef Indy is very serious as he listens to his Dad's instruction.

Reef Indy (11-Months-Old) practices on his skateboard with his Dad. Give this boy his board and he will occupy himself for hours.  The video below memorializes the first time Reef skateboarded in front of an audience.

Oma’s 60th Birthday Casino Crawl

Birthday Cake at Valley View Casino

Oma wanted to celebrate her 60th birthday in a celestial method. Since we live in the middle of Indian Casino real estate, the idea of a Casino Crawl strung forth.

Unlike a pub crawl, there would not be any consumption of alcoholic beverages. Since Oma was celebrating by herself, there would be no other designated driver. Oma was planning on an overabundance of gambling ending with a spa outing intermixed with banqueting.

If you're at all familiar with San Diego gambling, and Indian casinos, you know that the local gaming venues are extremely competitive. Oma planned her trip after consulting an article, “Top 10 Indian Casinos in the San Diego County Area by Inigo Figuracion.” 

Also in preparation of this epic adventure, Oma emailed the five closest casinos; Harrah's Rincon; Pala; Pauma; Pechanga and Valley View. The Casino Crawl was detailed and sponsorship was requested. Sadly, Pala Casino was the only establishment that even took the time to respond!

Therefore even though that response was a decline, it was decided that Pala would be the focal point of the crawl - where Oma would spend most of her time and cash. Further, Pala ranked highest on Mr. Figuracion’s list.

The weather on Oma’s big day was filled with rain, roarous thunder and spectacular lightning. Nevertheless, by 7:30 a.m., Oma was off to the first gambling establishment, Casino Pauma. Rated eighth on the Top-Ten list, this casino is also the furthest away from Oma’s home.

Casino Pauma

Casino Pauma is one of the smaller of the cluster of North County casinos that include Pala, Rincon and Valley View. Casino Pauma's spacious gaming floor is filled with a huge selection of the hottest slots around... from penny slots to nickel slots to quarter slots to dollar slots. We've got the traditional favorites to the newest, interactive games available, including video poker and keno.

Federally recognized since 1891, and established in August of 1892, the Pauma Band is one of seven Bands of the Luiseño people located in San Diego and Riverside counties. The Band opened Casino Pauma in May 2001

Upon arrival, Oma visited the player’s club. There were no specials offered for visiting on one’s birthday. However, Oma did participate in the “Turn $20 into $30” promotion. Basically, you give them “$20 Cash and they add $30 in Pauma Play to your Players Club account. Unfortunately, the slots proved very tight and that money vanished quickly.

This casino has changed dramatically since Oma visited last. They no longer offer the 99 cent breakfast. Oma settled for a two dollar cherry turnover that proved cold and stale. Also the staff was not very responsive. Oma asked that an employee take her photo for this article and was informed that they are not allowed to do so.

Needless to say, Oma left Casino Pauma speedily. Oma would not rate this casino anywhere in the top-ten. It is a small casino that really offers no incentives, and little excitement.

Harrah’s Rincon Casino was Oma’s second stop. Harrah’s is rated sixth on the Top-Ten list.

Harrah's Rincon Casino

Since gaming giant Harrah's runs the Rincon Hotel and Casino, it's no surprise it goes for the Las Vegas experience. A new 21-story hotel tower has made the formerly cozy resort into a full-blown entertainment complex. Harrah's also attracts a range of name acts for its concert series, but it gets a few minus points for its remote location and attention-taxing drive. But for getaways, you'll definitely feel like you're away at Harrah's Rincon.

Harrah’s is by far the most aesthetically pleasing of the four casino Oma crawled. It truly does transport you into the “Las Vegas” experience. The casino area is large with a variety of slot machines and a few tables. It was well-lit and was so clean it sparkled. Further, the staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful.

A downside that Oma experienced was the tightness of the slots. Oma expects to lose; however she also expects a nice payday when a bonus is won. Harrah’s did not live up to their slogan “Your First Resort for Winning!” 

Also be aware that there is currently construction at this site; the signs to parking was misleading and Oma ended up in the off-limits construction area.

Harrah’s also did not offer any specials for celebrating your birthday with them. Lastly, Oma pushed her call button on the slot machines to order a drink, unfortunately no-one ever replied. A water would have been welcome.

If it reads like a lot of negatives, be aware that Harrah’s Rincon Casino has earned its spot in the Top-Ten list. Oma has heard their spa is wonderful; one day Oma will have to do a spa day at Harrah’s.

Lunch time was rapidly approaching. Oma drove the short distance to Valley View Casino, which is ranked seventh on the Top-Ten list.

Valley View Casino

The all-new Valley View Casino currently offers over 1,750 exciting slot machines; 18 table games including single-deck blackjack, double-deck blackjack and Pai Gow poker; delicious dining options including an award-winning buffet, the Black&Blue steakhouse and lounge. Valley View is also becoming a player in the summer concert competition with a new outdoor venue featuring top-name entertainment.

The casino has been a vision of the San Pasqual Tribe for many years and the Grand Opening on April 18, 2001, marked a milestone event in their history. The San Pasqual Band of Mission Indians are members of the Kumeyaay people.

Oma and Opa visit this casino monthly. Therefore Oma had a free buffet coupon and a coupon for a birthday twenty dollars cash. Yet it was such an unexpected surprise when the friendly player’s club employee welcomed Oma with a huge smile and a Birthday T-Shirt.

The casino is very clean and the ventilation is excellent. Oma also loves that there are self-serve soda fountains on the casino floor so you don't have to wait for a waitress to get a soda or water. Their non-smoking section is also very large and welcoming. They have a large selection of slot machines that are updated regularly. More importantly, you can actually play for a while before losing all your money and the Jackpots are exciting.

Oma’s free lunch at the buffet was also very enjoyable. Open from 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., the lunch menu includes prime rib, authentic Italian, Asian, Mexican and American specialties, plus made-from-scratch soups, fresh rolled sushi, homemade cakes, pies and much more. The buffet staff also went out of their way to make Oma feel welcome.

If you could only pick one casino to visit, Oma would pick Valley View Casino.

Last on Oma’s Casino Crawl agenda, the fourth ranked Pala Casino.

Pala Casino

As you can tell, I'm splitting hairs with these rankings. Because giving Pala Casino fourth place is a bit misleading. Pala, with its 4-diamond hotel and large casino, is the prototypical Indian casino that harkens to the Vegas experience. Great dining, top-name entertainment, and great amenities. Pala has spa facilities and a nifty pool area with cabanas, and it attracts big name entertainment concerts. Just pay attention to the road when driving along Highway 76

Oma arrived at the Pala Casino just in time for her 2:00 p.m. spa treatment. The Pala Spa is open from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily and features 10,000 square feet of organically inspired luxury, with outdoor relaxation and treatment areas. Separate men’s and women’s locker rooms are each equipped with showers, steam room, dry sauna and indoor whirlpools. All the amenities are include with a spa treatment costing $50 or more.

Oma opted for the August Spa Special “5 flowers Illuminescence Facial Ritual” for $104.00. (Warning – they add the tip on for you so my bill came to $122.00)

"Five Flowers Ritual" 50 minutes: Illuminescence facial based on an ancestral Balinese ritual which blends the extracts of 5 tropical flowers and skin cleansing with a neck, shoulder muscle and face massage which awakens skin vitality.

The facial was wonderfully executed by a sociable Raquel. Then a soothed and pampered Oma relaxed in the Spa Café for a light snack of an apple and cup of ikaati Black Orchid  tea. Oma had never tasted ikaati tea in the past, but will definitely buy some in the future – it was very flavorful with a hint of vanilla and an accent of mandarin orange.

Oma also utilized the indoor whirlpool and outdoor relaxation area. Oma’s Spa outing was faultless; go if yozu have the opportunity.

A trip to the player’s club was hassle-free. Oma received a red “60 +” dot on her card and a certificate for twenty dollars to spend at a casino eatery.

The “60 Plus” club is a free promotion. All members of 60+ Club will receive a 30% discount at the award-winning CHOICES the Buffet, every Tuesday from 11am-3pm. You can also win a share of $300 every Tuesday following the free 1:00 p.m. show at the Infinity. 

Oma cannot wait to check out the “60 Plus” club on a Tuesday in September!

Oma had a choice of ten restaurants in which to spend her twenty dollar food voucher. Opa does not like sushi, the Casino Crawl presented a good prospect to explore the Sushi Sake.

Enjoy the honored Japanese tradition of sushi with a Southern California flair at Sushi Sake. This sushi-bar style restaurant offers a wide variety of fresh and baked sushi selections as well as a collection of sake, available hot or cold. Diners are welcome to enjoy a seat at the bar where they can watch as these culinary delights are prepared by our skilled sushi chefs or they may “grab and go” and enjoy their meal on the casino floor or outside on the Pala Terrace.

Oma selected the Nigiri Sushi: Sushi Platter. The freshest tuna, salmon, yellowtail, whitefish, albacore and shrimp was served with a spicy tuna roll. This plate was both filling and fresh – very tasty. The sushi bar staff was very pleasant. Oma will be back in the near future.

The casino itself was expansive and unsoiled. The machines allowed you to play and enjoy an occasional jackpot. Oma even participated in a slot tournament which cost a ten dollar entry fee. Finishing in nineteen place – Oma’s payback was $5.19.

While playing the slot machines, patrons are entertained by live bands. The bands set-up over the bar and are quite entertaining. Oma listened to two bands in the three hours she spent there.

Oma actually left Pala with a few bucks in her pocket – not a winner but Oma did not spend the entire budget! Nonetheless, it was 7:00 p.m. and after twelve hours, fifty-six miles added to the odometer, and three meals, the Oma’s 60th Birthday Casino Crawl was complete.

In summary:

• Skip Casino Pauma altogether; it is not worth your time or money;
• Stop by Harrah’s for its beauty and maybe a Starbucks;
• Spend most of your time and money at Valley View and Pala Casinos for the friendly staff, enjoyment and amenities.
• If you could only pick one casino to visit, Oma would pick Valley View Casino; however Pala came in at a very close second! 

Be sure to tell them that "Oma Loves U!" sent you.