Author Archives: Erin

Best Margaritas in the OC & LA Areas

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Best Margaritas in the OC & LA Areas

By Erin

Where are the best margaritas in Southern California? National Margarita Day is coming up, so consider this your official excuse to sip, smile, and say yes to another round. Classic, spicy, frozen, skinny—however you marg, do it with extra vibes. Southern California knows how to do margaritas right, and these are some of my go-to spots when the craving hits. This list is always growing (because let’s be real—there are still so many margs left to try), but these favorites never disappoint. What are some of YOUR favorites you think I should try next?

King and Queen Cantina

Best Margaritas in LA & OC King & Queen Cantina

Bold flavors, fun energy, and margaritas that don’t mess around at King and Queen Cantina. This is one of my favorite spots when I want a marg that feels festive, strong, and perfect for a night out with friends and share a very festive margarita flight! Bonus points for creative flavors and a lively atmosphere.

Coyote Grill (Laguna Beach)

Margaritas just hit different when you’re this close to the ocean. Coyote Grill is a Laguna Beach classic with refreshing margs that pair perfectly with salty air and sunset views. It’s the kind of place that turns one drink into a whole evening.

Tantalum – Long Beach

If you like your margarita served with waterfront views, Tantalum is a must. Their margs feel elevated yet easygoing, making it a great spot for date night, girls night out, golden hour drinks, or weekend brunch vibes along the marina. Be sure to try their Blood Orange or Kiwi Margaritas!

Caló Kitchen + Tequila

Tequila lovers, this one’s for you. Caló takes their margaritas seriously, with well-balanced flavors and quality ingredients that shine. Whether you’re going classic or adventurous, this is a solid choice when you want a really good marg.

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Zootopia 2 Home Release Review + Bonus Features & Soundtrack

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Zootopia 2 Is Finally Home — And Why This Movie Means So Much to Me 💙🦊🐰

Some movies entertain us. Some movies inspire us. And then there are those rare films that become a part of our story. For me, Zootopia is one of those movies, which is why the home release of Zootopia 2 feels especially meaningful. Zootopia 2 is on Digital now, and will be on 4K Ultra HD™ Blu-ray™ and DVD on March 3rd!

When the original Zootopia premiered, I was lucky enough to attend the red carpet premiere and special early press days, experiencing the magic long before it hit theaters. Watching the film come to life behind the scenes, meeting the creatives who poured their hearts into every frame, and then seeing audiences fall in love with Judy and Nick the same way I had… it was unforgettable. Since then, Zootopia has held a permanent, cozy, joyful place in my heart, so getting to return to that world in Zootopia 2 feels like reuniting with old friends.

One of the sweetest parts of this Zootopia journey has been sharing it with my niece, who absolutely adores the movie, especially Judy Hopps. Over winter break, I took her to Downtown Disney for the very first time, and let her pick out something special from the World of Disney Store. Watching her eyes light up as she took it all in was pure magic, but when she spotted the Zootopia section, it was game over. She knew exactly what she wanted. Judy Hopps. Of course, that’s what we got. When I told her there was a Zootopia 2 out now, her excitement instantly doubled, so I took her to see it the very next day. Seeing her laugh, gasp, and completely fall in love with the story reminded me why these movies matter so much. And now, with the digital release, I cannot wait to watch it all over again with her this weekend, because some movie moments are just too special to experience only once. 💙

© 2025 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Welcome Back to the Wild, Wonderful World of Zootopia 🏙️✨

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Easy DIY Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Heart Box (No Cooking Required)

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DIY Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Heart Box is How I Say “I Love You” (Without Writing a Card)

By Erin

DIY Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Heart Box

*Disclosure: This post includes Amazon affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you shop through them, at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting my work!*

Let’s be honest, Valentine’s Day is really just an excuse to eat cute food, right? Whether you’re celebrating with your partner, your kids, your Galentines, your nieces and nephews, your grandkids, or just yourself (because self-love counts), this DIY Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Heart Box is my love language.

It’s sweet, savory, chocolate-filled, and shaped like a heart… which automatically makes it cute and romantic. Plus, it’s the kind of treat that looks extra fancy but is actually very doable. No culinary degree or stress-induced meltdown required. Filled with lots of fresh produce from Melissa’s Produce and olives from Garcia de la Cruz, make it extra special.

Valentine’s Day Charcuterie Heart Box 💘

Yield: Serves 6–7 lucky snackers
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes (because we don’t have time for complicated)

Ingredients

🧀 Cheese (Because Cheese = Love)

  • Brie cheese, heart-shaped
  • Cheddar cheese, cubed
  • Pepper jack cheese, cubed
  • Manchego Spanish cheese- cut into triangles
  • Colby jack slices, cut into hearts
  • Blueberry goat cheese

🥩 Meats (The Real Heartthrob)

  • 3 Salami hearts
  • 8 oz salami
  • 8 oz Uncured sweet soppressata
  • 8 oz Uncured sweet capocollo
  • 8 oz Prosciutto

🍓 The Sweet Stuff (Balance, People)

🍫 Chocolate = Mandatory

  • Crackers
  • Chocolate-coated almonds
  • Chocolate hearts
  • Ghirardelli strawberry chocolate squares
  • Candy hearts

Tools You’ll Need

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