Garza Blanca Resort Suite Tour- Summer Vacation 2017 @Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

First of all, sorry for not posting anything last week.  It was the Labor Day long weekend in the States, we're back on track with school schedules, and I’m still daydreaming about our summer vacation, whenever I'm alone!  When I'm not daydreaming, I was actually busy processing the videos and pictures that we took during our summer vacation in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

(Lobby of Garza Blanca Resort)

Second of all, this is NOT a sponsored post!  We paid for this entire trip out of our own pocket!

Now that the disclaimer is done, if you still haven’t check out my video above, be sure to watch it.  In this video, I’ll give you a virtual tour of our 2 bedroom suite at the Garza Blanca, a beautiful resort where we stayed for 5 nights during our summer vacation.   I also included some of our daily activities and food that we enjoyed.   Although we did experienced some thunder storms (mostly at night), overall, we had fantastic and awesome experience for our stay. 

(Click on the images to enlarge)

Besides the beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean by the beach, the infinity pools at this resort are just as gorgeous.  We signed up for the all-inclusive package and the non-motor sports activities at the hotel beach area are all included as well.  For the majority of time, we stayed in our resort, hung out at the beach and pool side.  My Kids declared that it was the most amazing vacation ever!  Honestly, I guess it’ll be quite hard to beat this one though.  No pressure on the person who will be researching and booking our next vacation destination though (a.k.a. my Husband)!

(Berry Blush Cocktail)

(Grilled Mushroom – Side dish from the Steakhouse)

(Sauces for the Steaks)

(Veal Chop)

(Dessert Tree from the Steakhouse - Assorted Desserts)

There are 3 major restaurants in this resort, unfortunately one of them (Italian theme) was under renovation during our stay.  So we only dined in the remaining 2 of them, they are Blanca Blue (Mexican theme) and Bocados STK (modern steakhouse).  The food and service in both restaurants were exceptional!  Be sure to check out more food videos and pictures from my video tour above.  The presentation of the dishes from Blanca Blue were fabulous!

(Lobby of Hotel Mousai)

(Pressure Massage Shower – one of the Hydrotherapy Circuit at Spa Imagine)

The sister resort of Garza Blanca called Hotel Mousai is for adults only.  They do have 2 other restaurants but we didn’t get to try them this time.  However, I did get a chance to visit Spa Imagine, which is located in the Hotel Mousai, and enjoyed a relaxing massage as well as their Hydrotherapy services.  That facility and services were just as wonderful as the rest of the resort.  Everyone was very attentive and courteous.   They would go above and beyond to make sure that you are happy and satisfy.  I did had a relax afternoon at the spa and felt rejuvenated when I left!  Thanks to my Honey for watching the Kids!

(Room Service Food)

(Mojito from Pool Side Service)

(Snack from Pool Side Service)

(Seafood Ceviche from Pool Side Service)

As I mentioned before, we opt for the all-inclusive package for our stay.  Therefore, all of our food including room service and pool side snacks and bars were all included.   But I have to say, the room service food was just so-so.  On the other hand, the pool side snacks and drinks were surprisingly delicious!  Overall, we had an awesome vacation and spent some quality time together as a family.  We sure made some unforgettable memories and something to look forward to in the future.  We sure hope to have a chance to be back some day…..but for now, I need to work hard for our next vacation! 

Just in case, below is the hotel website and information if you’re interested to check it out. 

Garza Blanca Preserve, Resort & Spa
Website: http://www.garzablancaresort.com/ Resort Phone: +52 (322) 176 0718
Address: Carretera a Barra de Navidad Km. 7.5 Puerto Vallarta , JAL. ,48390, Mexico.

Disclaimers
uTry.it hotel reviews are solely based on our experience at each hotel or resort we visit.   They were just our opinions. Unless otherwise stated, uTry.it and its owner were not compensated in any way to stay at these hotels nor to write reviews.  We have no control over your lodging experience at any given hotel. Your experience will depend on the staff working that evening, the time of day, the cycles of the moon and many other things beyond our powers to influence.

Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas Review and Giveaway - How to Wrap Gift Cards

Are you ready for the holiday seasons?  I’m quite excited this year as we’ll have some relatives visiting from overseas to spend the holidays with us.  It’ll definitely be a wonderful family reunion and great celebration!  I can’t wait!  What are your family traditions for the holidays?  For my family, gift exchange is one of our favorite tradition during Christmas.  It does not have to be expensive gifts as it is always the thoughts that matter the most!  I personally like giving out homemade gifts.  Or, gifts that are useful and practical.  If you wrap or package your gifts nicely, it’ll definitely elevate the appeal of your gifts.  Today, I’m excited to share the review with you on the “Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas” craft book, the Chinese Silk wrapping paper, and the Japanese Kimono wrapping paper!  



If you haven’t check out the video tutorial above, don’t forget to do so.  In the video, I’ll show you how to wrap and package your gift cards, in a unique and personal way.  Did I say I like practical gifts that people can use?  Yes!  Handing out gift cards to the recipients’ favorite stores are some of my favorite gift giving ideas!



I love that the “Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas” books comes with colorful step-by-step pictorial!  With the illustrative photos and easy instructions in this craft book you can:

• Find interesting ways to use almost any kind of paper
• Creatively and neatly wrap gifts of any size, shape and purpose
• Make containers such as bags, boxes, unique envelopes, and even a pencil case
• Add a little romance with sealing wax, washi tape, custom-made tags and more
• Use personally significant embellishments to make every gift a personal conversation between you and the receiver

The Chinese Silk wrapping paper, and the Japanese Kimono wrapping paper are among the highest quality of wrapping paper that I’ve ever used.  They are thick and sturdy.  Definitely won’t rip or tear during the wrapping process, which is important to me!  The unique printing truly resemble the Chinese Silk and the Kimono prints on garments.  I’m totally in love!  



Check out this adorable Christmas Tree wrapping above!  I can’t wait to surprise my kids with this wrapping method! 



I always have trouble wrapping cylinder shaped objects!  Now, this wrapping method will come to the rescue!  It’ll be perfect for homemade canning goodies!  Yay!  Another wonderful news is that the generous people at Tuttle Publishing is sponsoring a giveaway for you! 

Here is the Giveaway details:

One lucky uTry.it reader (open to U.S. residence only) will win a copy of “Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas” craft book, and one package of wrapping paper (winner’s choice).  Choose from the Chinese Silk wrapping paper, OR the Japanese Kimono wrapping paper!   

To enter:
1) Simply click here to subscribe to my YouTube Channel. 
2) Give my video a "thumb's up". 
3) Then, leave a comment below to let me know that you’ve subscribed to my YouTube channel.  If you’ve already subscribed to my YouTube channel before this giveaway, simply let me know in the comment and you’re entered!

*Gift card and other tools appeared in the video tutorial are NOT included in the giveaway.

All entries must be received by December 4th, 2016 mid-night PST.  Winner will be selected through Random.org and announced shortly after the giveaway is closed.

Good Luck!


Product links in this review:

Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas:
https://goo.gl/cbmgD2

Chinese Silk Wrapping Paper:
https://goo.gl/tSnOAw

Japanese Kimono Wrapping Paper:

https://goo.gl/jFHAxY



Disclaimer: I received a copy of the Perfect Gift Wrapping Ideas and a package of the Chinese Silk wrapping paper and the Japanese Kimono wrapping paper free of charge for the purpose of this review.  All opinions are 100% my own and always will be. 

Double Chocolate Sandwich Cookies 黑白朱古力夾心曲奇餅:

One of our favorite summer activities is cooking and baking at home.  However, My Baby Girl is obviously way more interested in the cooking and baking, way more than my Little Handsome does.  Quite often, she got to select our baking projects.  And you probably know by now, bunny is one of her favorite animals.  Click here, here, and here for other bunny treats that we’ve made so far!  Here comes the BIG question!  How will you eat these cookies?  Will you start from the ears?  Or will you bite on the little cutie pink cheek first?  Either way, these are super fun to eat and super fun to make as well!  Not to mention, they are so adorable and almost too kawaii (cute) to eat, almost!  How about we do a little bunny cookie eating personality test?



Bunny Cookie Personality Test:  Where will you start first?

Ears First:
If you nibble on the ears first, you’re a practical, organized, and traditional person.  You value security and you’re extremely loyal.  You might be a little impatient at times but everyone loves you!

Cheek First:
If you start with the cheek first, you’re the type of person that tends to take the roads that are less traveled.   It's not necessarily means that you’re an innovator.  It’s probably due to the fact that you don’t want to be predictable.  A bit cautious, perhaps, or even a little...sneaky!?

Eating the whole cookie all in one bite:
You’re restless, independent, and always on the go.  People can count on you to get the job done.  You also have a delightful personality and make friends easily.  You're definitely a fun person to be around.

Smelling It First:
If you would smell the cookie first before taking a bite, you’re a bit cautious. Isn't that obvious?  You always think twice before you act.  You have high standards and detail oriented.  You’re polite and very well mannered.

Chin First:
If you eat the bunny’s chin first, you are a very caring and nurturing person.  You also need assurance that you are loved.   A little insecure, perhaps?  You’re afraid that people might take advantage of you or take you for granted.  But if you found that right person, you’ll love them unconditionally.  

Breaking the cookie In Half:
Breaking the cookie in half is pretty much a reflection of how you live your life. “Half full” being a bit skeptical or pessimistic about things.  You do have a great sense of humor and you are a great friend to others.



Okay, now you know what kind of a person I am!  LOL….. Anyway, this test is just for a little fun.  Please don’t take it too seriously!  However, I would appreciate that you leave a comment below and tell me your "choice of body part" to bite into, and if the test results are accurate!  



So, head to the kitchen and bake these bunny cookies!  These are very easy to make with no mixer and/or machine needed at all!  However, please use good quality Dutch-process cocoa powder for this recipe.  It’ll give you the deep, dark, and rich chocolate flavor that you can’t get from other cocoa powder.  After trying so many different brands of cocoa powder, Valrhona is my personal favorite.  I’ll list the ingredients and tools below for your reference!  Stay tuned for more fun recipe next week.  Thanks for stopping by and take care.   




Tools and Ingredients Used:
Valrhona Cocoa Powder (Clickhere for more information)
Kerrygold Butter (Clickhere for more information)
Wilton Pink Pearl Sprinkles (Clickhere for more information)
Wilton Daisy Flower Sprinkles (Clickhere for more information)
Dark Chocolate Chips (Clickhere for more information)
White Chocolate Chips (Clickhere for more information)
Organic Vanilla Extract (Click here for more information)
Large Flower Cookie Cutter (Click here for more information)
Small Bunny Cookie Cutter (Click here for more information)
Measuring Spoons Set (Click here for more information)
Cooling Racks (Click here for more information)
Baking Sheets (Click here for more information)
Rolling Pin  (Clickhere for more information)
Silpat (Clickhere for more information)

Ultimate Origami for Beginners Kit Review and Giveaway

My kids and I had so much fun this summer.  Besides travelling, cooking a storm in the kitchen, visiting the parks and beaches, we also had a blast creating different origami together.  It’s definitely a fun art and craft activity to spend time with the kids.  If you’re new to origami, I have the perfect recommendation for you:  The Ultimate Origami for Beginners Kit!  

It has everything that you needed!  In this Ultimate Origami for Beginners Kit, there are 19 exciting projects to choose from, 64 pages instructional booklet with pictures, 62 sheets of colorful folding paper, and a step-by-step DVD with video instructions, all in one kit!  I know you’re going to love this kit, as much as I do.  Check out the video below for more details on the kit.





Wonderful, isn’t it?  You can purchase your own Ultimate Origami for Beginners Kit by clicking here.  Or, you can try your luck in entering this giveaway, courtesy of Tuttle Publishing.


Here are the details on how to enter.
One lucky uTry.it reader (worldwide) will win a copy of “The Ultimate Origami for Beginners Kit”.

To enter, simply leave a comment on this post and tell me if you’ve try origami before.  Deadline to enter is August 31, 2015 by mid-night PST.  Winner will be selected through Random.org and announce shortly after the giveaway is closed.

This giveaway is currently closed.  Thank you all who participated.

For extra entries, do any or all of the following (leave a separate comment for each extra entry):
1)  Add me to your Google+ circle here
2) "Like" uTry.it's Facebook Page, click here.
3) Pin a picture from this post onto Pinterest.
4) Share this giveaway on Facebook (with a link back to this post please)
5) Share this giveaway on Twitter (with a link back to this post please)
That’s all and Good Luck everyone!


Disclaimer:  I received a copy of “The Ultimate Origami for Beginners Kit” for the purpose of this review and I was not compensated in any way to write this post.  All comments and opinions are 100% my own.