Dolphins in the Sea of Cortez, doing thier thing.

One day, about 5 years ago, my family and I took a vacation to Catalina Island just off of Los Angeles. It was a lot of fun and I’ve mentioned it numerous times over my years here at UpTake.

However, one thing that I’ve never gone into is how I was completely hosed on the dolphin experience that EVERYONE on the boat shared — except for me and my son. Turns out that his bladder also serves as an indicator to when something magical is going to happen, because he had to use the restroom, coming and going, just before pods of dolphins swam alongside our boat. Thousands of them, apparently. I hear it was fantastic.

Not that I’m bitter.

This post is part of our Friday Family Series.

Photo: lowjumpingfrog via Flickr

Under the Sign

There is a lot happening today at the Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California. Disneyland is launching their version of Star Tours 2.0 and Disney’s California Adventure is continuing its expansion with the debut of a new Little Mermaid ride.

That’s right, visitors at the Disneyland Resort are going to explore space and the deep, blue sea all in one day. That’s adventure, people!

The updated Star Tours ride will have the same amazing modifications as the Walt Disney World version at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. We’re talking 3D and multiple Star Wars experiences in each journey! I’ve heard good things.

The Little Mermaid: Ariel’s Undersea Adventure is a dark ride featuring some of our favorite scenes from the movie BROUGHT. TO. LIFE. Believe it.

If you’re going to the parks today you should be prepared for some pretty big crowds, but as someone that has attended plenty of big events and special occasions at the Disneyland Resort, I can assure you that it is worth it!

Churros not included in the price of admission.

Photo from The DisneyParks Blog

I have a bone to pick with Alaska Airlines, and lucky for me I have the platform to do it. This may or may not be lucky for you. Humor me.

To be fair, I’ve always been a fan of Alaska. Over the past 10 years I’ve spent a lot of time flying in and out of Seattle and often Alaska Airlines has provided the best deal available. I’m budget savvy, what can I say?

In addition to affordable (relative) airfare I’ve also enjoyed their customer service. Just last summer when my family and I were flying to Orlando there was a mix-up with our tickets (between Alaska and a partner airline) which, frankly, freaked us out. The Alaska Airlines rep stayed cool and calm and made everything right. It was the first real moment of relaxation on a great family vacation.

My point? Alaska Airlines has always done right by me. Until now. Read More »

MLK Parade in Seattle

Cities all across America are celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., this weekend. Here is a list of cities with popular events and parades (click name of city for event list):

Houston

Seattle

Atlanta

New Orleans

San Francisco

Philadelphia

Boston

San Diego

Miami

Indianapolis

Chicago

Washington, D.C.

New York City

Los Angeles

Denver

St. Louis

Dallas

Obviously there are more cities celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. King –  if your town isn’t listed please check your local paper or community website for more information.

Photo by Seattle Municipal Archives via Flickr