Category Archives: Recommendations

Two New Openings in north Mission Viejo

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Panda Express facing Los Alisos, in the shopping center at Marguerite Parkway and Santa Margarita Parkway where there’s CVS Pharmacy, Ralph’s Market, McDonald’s, and the Pet Store Warehouse.

Also at the same intersection but across the street is a new Auto Club Office next to Petco in the Sprout’s Farmer’s Market shopping center where there’s also Yogurtland and Claim Jumper Restaurant.

And some good news for anyone who gets cold sores or canker sores, Sprout’s now carries the two problem solvers I developed over 20 years ago.  The first,  Cold Sores Begone Stick™, a chapstick that stops a cold sore from surfacing at the early warning tingle.  www.Cold Sores Begone.com.

Cold & Canker Sore Begone1.5mg

Second, Canker Sores Begone Stick™, which within 24-36 hours, heals a mouth ulcer inside the mouth (on or under tongue, inside cheeks, roof of mouth, inside lips).  www.CankerSoresBegone.com

Do you know anyone overseas who could use either remedy? We now ship international orders for which there’s a flat shipping fee of $10, maximum 5 pieces per order.  There’s a moneyback guarantee but the shipping fee is not included.  (888) 877-6315.

Gandolfo’s Deli is better with recent change of ownership

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UnknownIf you thought Gandolfo’s Deli in Mission Viejo was good before, you should try it now.  I had a pastrami sandwich on rye with Russian dressing and it was out of this world.

Sean and Danielle Whaley took over the reins last Friday, with a commitment to excellent both in quality of food and customer service.  The Whaley’s also own another Gandolfo’s Deli in Rancho Cucamonga.

Gandolfo’s Deli is located at Via Fabricante and Alicia Parkway.

Address: 23981 Alicia Parkway, Mission Viejo, CA 92691

Phone:(949) 581-3354
Hours:
Monday 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Tuesday 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Wednesday 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Thursday 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Friday 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Saturday 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Sunday 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

If you need a new dentist, here’s why I recommend mine

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Shervin Ahmadnia, DDS, Family Forest Dentistry

  • Excellent work
  • Affordable prices
  • He’s a doll. (My 85 year old mother had a crush on him)
  • He’s gentle, patient and wants you to be happy
  • Friendly staff
  • I’ve been his patient since 1998, and have had crowns, fillings, teeth whitening, teeth cleaning
  • Did I mention he’s affordable?
  • Accepts Medi-cal, credit cards
  • Anyone I’ve recommended him to are very happy

He offers an in-office dental plan that saves me money every year.  As a single person, no children, it costs $105/year. Saves money on all dental work. No claim forms, deductibles, or annual maximums, and coordinates with other dental coverage. If you go in, ask about it.

Open:
Mon, Wed, Thur – 8am-7pm
Tues, 8am-6pm
Every other Saturday, 8am-2pm
Friday-closed

22855 Lake Forest Dr., Suite B, Lake Forest, CA  92630 (between Muirlands and Rockfield, north side of street in strip mall)

(949) 583-1558

A New Bundt Cake Store in Mission Viejo

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The minute you walk in the door of Nothing Bundt Cakes, all your senses come alive with the scent of fresh cake. Your eyes don’t know where to go first–everything is so colorful, pretty, cute, happy.  Bundt cakes in a variety of sizes, daisies and ribbons in different colors and patterns to choose from to decorate your cake.

It’s a gift shop also with girl-y plastic gloves for washing dishes or gardening, paper kits for simple customization for your cake, colorful tableware and cake plates.

The cakes are moist and absolutely out of this world.  You can check it out yourself because everyday, they set out plates with samples of two of the available flavors.

The owners of this franchise store are Donna and Ismael Zamora.

Portola Plaza (Marguerite & Santa Marguerite Parkway)
27746-A Santa Margarita Parkway, Mission Viejo

949.859.1377

Monday-Friday: 9AM-6PM, Saturday: 10AM-6PM

Email: missionviejo@nothingbundtcakes.com

Fresh & Easy-10 exciting reasons why it’s the go-to place to shop for families

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Sharlene Earnshaw, writer for the Lake Forest Patch, wrote a very good article on Fresh & Easy with information I didn’t even know, and I shop there!  It includes one perk that I’ve never seen before — preferred parking for adults with children.   Hmmm, I don’t have children.  Anyone interested in renting out one of yours for an hour or so? 🙂

The new Fresh & Easy in Lake Forest is located at El Toro Road and Trabuco.

A new, less expensive concept in massage offered by Pandora Massage at Laguna Hills Mall

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I was very short on time the day I went in, my first visit.  I just noticed them driving by so on impulse, I decided to stop and see what their services were and prices.  The first thing I noticed was the soothing sounds of a flute accompanied by a chirping bird. The ambiance is comfortable with a somewhat tropical/Asian decor, very clean, and prices were less expensive than other moderately priced salons I’ve been to.  What I like is that you don’t undress for a massage at Pandora. No hassle of dressing and undressing, make up stays intact, no oily hair so you can go on about your day looking as good as you did when you left the house, but much more relaxed.   All their massage tables are set up in one open space, but fanned out so you have a sense of privacy.  The massage tables may be the most comfortable I’ve layed on.

Again on impulse, I asked for a combination foot/shoulder/neck/back massage for 15 minutes.  It went a little longer but they didn’t charge extra.  Just a 20 minute or so massage and I was so relaxed, I had to peel myself off the massage table.  I didn’t want to move.  Although their website, www.pandoramassage.com, says the massages are for one hour each, they are happy to provide shorter massages that fit your budget or time you have available.

I have a standing appointment at my nail salon every 2 weeks and most of the time, I’ll ask for a longer foot massage or a shoulder/neck/back massage.  I’ll be coming to Pandora for that in the future.  The price is the same, meaning inexpensive, but the quality of massage is better and the soothing environment works wonders.

Issa Hanna, a retired pharmacist, owns Pandora Massage, which only opened 6 weeks ago.   He mentioned they have a large selection of music a customer can choose from if desired.  Then he said the magic words that bought my loyalty on the spot — if established customers are out and about, feeling muscle tension or pain, he’ll be happy to have a masseuse provide a 5 minute massage at no charge. Yep, Pandora’s phone number went immediately into my cell phone Contacts list.

Pandora’s offering a special right now – two one-hour massages for the price of one.  Such a deal!  Use both for yourself or bring a friend.

Pandora Massage is located on the back side of the mall not too far from Sears, and can only be accessed from the parking lot, not from inside the mall.

Open 10am to 10pm everyday. Phone:  (949) 465-0005.  Walk-in’s welcome, appointments preferred.

A new year, desire to get fix-it jobs done, but concerned about expense?

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A few people who used my excellent handyman due to my recommendation, suggested I write about him again since many people don’t go too far back scrolling through a blog.  His name is Daniel Tena and he happens to be a licensed contractor.  His rates are very reasonable, so don’t let that be reason not to call or get your projects, big or small, finally done with–especially if there’s a danger issue involved.  His contact information is: Cell ph:  949-485-8458 , Home ph:  949-365-1085.

Here’s the link to the original blog which provides more information.  http://wp.me/pTlhh-8k

Revealing my wonderful handyman

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Daniel, the handyman

Don't let him kid you. His hair is all gray!

Yes, I love to share resources – that’s apparent from this blog.  But I was worried about sharing info about my handyman, Daniel, a licensed contractor, because I had visions of having to wait weeks for him to be available.  Can you blame me?  He’s on time, has fixed every problem I’ve handed him, he’s organized and neat when he works, and his hourly rates are extremely reasonable.

On the personal side, he’s a family man, somewhat urbane, quiet, gentle and kind. My two little dogs took to him instantly and kept trying to sit in his lap when he was working.  Spanish is his native language, and his English could stand improvement, but somehow, all gets communicated and the job gets done just fine.

He works all of south OC, Mondays through Saturdays.  Here’s a quick list of work he does:

Plumbing (doesn’t install water heaters)

Electrical

Painting (no more than one room at a time)+ touch up jobs

Carpentry (small jobs, no flooring)

Installs shelving

Repairs tile, walls, doors, shower doors, window and sliding glass door frames, gates, patio covers, water damage to bathroom and kitchen cabinet doors.

Installs lights, fans

and if it’s not listed here, ask him!

Daniel Tena, Ant Tena Handyman, Contractor’s License #953341

Cell ph:  949-485-8458 , Home ph:  949-365-1085

Who’s hiring for temporary and permanent positions

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In case you missed this in the OC Register, it’s worth posting here:

Hyundai

Macy’s

Various mentioned within article

Ingram Micro

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man worryingFear. Stress. Worry. Lack of sleep.  All common triggers for painful canker sores (inside the mouth) and embarrassing, painful cold sores (outside the mouth).  Here are two problem-solvers that are topical, safe for all ages, and work like nothing else you’ve tried. www.ColdSoresBegone.com, www.CankerSoresBegone.com

I recommend this twice-a-year, weekend warehouse sale in Foothill Ranch. Fri, 8/20-Sun, 8/22

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I’m not much on garage sales but inspite of the heat in and outside the warehouse, I go to this sale every year. My particular interest are the informercial products I see on TV but use willpower not to buy, that often appear right here at the sale at greatly reduced prices.  And there’s always a few other chotskies I pick up as well.  Lots of stuff in the $1-$10 range.  Get some, a lot, or all your holiday shopping here, it will save you a fortune.  Beware, no refunds or exchanges. And dress cool. This weekend starting tommorrow (Friday).

Innovage Warehouse Sale

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Imagine the dreaded early warning symptom of a cold sore, but you’re able to easily prevent it before it starts. Cold Sores Begone™

Local organic farm has added Wednesday drop off location in Mission Viejo on Via Fabricante with boxes of fruits and vegetables

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Many small family farms are going directly to the local food supporter in the form of a weekly subscription basket.  Customers get truly local, ‘just harvested’ freshness.  Product in a grocery store is often 14 days old and has, on average traveled 1500 miles, losing nutrition and flavor along the way, not to mention increasing air pollution and fossil fuel consumption.  Having your organic fruit and vegetables harvested and delivered directly from a local farm provides a fresher, tastier alternative.

Other benefits include a greater variety of selection, preserving farmland and open space, and keeping money within the local economy.

As a member of Morning Song Organic Farm‘s subscription service, a weekly package of fresh fruit and vegetables is delivered in several drop off locations in south OC. The closest to Saddleback Valley is at Mission Viejo’s Gateway Rehab & Wellness Center at 24002 Via Fabricante. The service is available to the general public as part of the facility’s wellness outreach. However, people don’t have to be patients and can simply drop by the facility, fill out a Morning Song Farm agreement and their box of fruits and veggies will be available for pick-up on Wednesday afternoons.

Find out more about the service by calling 949-454-8811.

Habit Burger Grill has opened and BJ’s Brewery Restaurant now offering gluten-free pizza! Life is good!

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The Habit Burger Grill is now open at The Orchard Shopping Center at 23632 El Toro Rd, Lake Forest, (949) 206-9110.  Hours:  Mon-Sat: 10:30m-9:pm; Sun- 11am-8pm.  Had a burger/fries, quite good but line was out the door.

Just went to  BJ Brewery Restaurant for the first time today. What took me so long?  The food is excellent and priced reasonably.  I’m looking for recommendations on your favorite menu items at BJ’s, so please comment below with your suggestions.  But that’s not the news. For those that can’t eat gluten, they offer pizzas made without it!
GLUTEN-FREE THIN CRUST PIZZA
Gluten-Free Thin Crust Pizza – Cheese 8.95
Gluten-Free Thin Crust Pizza – Add One Topping 9.95
Gluten-Free Thin Crust Pizza – Add Two Toppings 10.95
Gluten-Free Thin Crust Pizza – Add Three Toppings 11.95
Gluten-Free Thin Crust Pizza – Add Four Toppings 12.95
A flavorful, herb-infused, 10-inch crust baked to a golden brown and topped with your favorite gluten free toppings. All BJ’s Classic Toppings listed are gluten-free with the exception of meatballs.

24032 El Toro Rd. in the Laguna Hills Mall near Just Tires.  949.900.2670

Hours
11am-12am Monday-Thursday
11am-1am Friday
10am-1am Saturday
10am-12am Sunday

BTW, both of these restaurants are on the noisy side, if that’s an issue for you.

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Do painful canker sores stand between you and you’re ability to eat with joy?  What are you waiting for?  Get non-toxic, topical Canker Sores Begone™ to get rid of them within a day or two (varies among individuals). Helps cankers due to any cause except from acidic food.  Available at Mother’s Market, Whole Foods Market, Henry’s Marketplace (not Laguna Niguel), Sprouts, and www.csbegone.com.

Two New Eatery Finds in Ladera Ranch, Both Fantastic!

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How about a friendly family restaurant, open 24 hrs/day, serves breakfast anytime, and everything is home made.  I happened by  Corky’s Restaurant and Bakery a few days ago and woohoo, my new go-to casual restaurant.   I had the Pot Roast dinner – out of this world.  Chunks of flavorful, tender beef, and in case you were wondering, no gristle.  Included a large dinner roll (fantastic!), delicious mashed potatoes with gravy, and salad or soup.  I chose the soup of the day, tortilla soup –  home made, fresh, wonderful. $9.99.

Warning!  Their portions are huge. Unless you’re a voracious eater, plan to share it or take some  home with you.  The hot fudge brownie with ice cream is $6.99 but could feed 4 people.  Omelettes?  Haven’t tried one yet, but they use 5 eggs.   They’re not making up for poor quality with quantity – no siree Bob!   It’s the delicious, fresh home cooked meals I remember from my childhood.

Don’t believe  me – read the reviews on their site, found under each of the meal menus on the left column.   I’ll start you off here with their breakfast menu. Click on Read Comments.

27522 Antonio Parkway, Ladera Ranch, 949-364-4439 (located at Crown Valley & Antonio in shopping center on the east side of Antonio).

NEXT UP………..

Jerry’s Wood-Fired Dogs (hot dogs, that is)

This hot dog joint is what I consider to be a wave of new-wave hot dog/sausage eateries opening up lately.  Another one is Berkeley Dog, which I’ve heard is good but haven’t been there yet.  They’re located at 25522 Marguerite Pkwy. #101, Mission Viejo, CA, 92692,  (949) 455-1888. (At Oso & Marguerite near Rubio’s & Del Taco).

At Jerry’s Dogs, I ordered the hot dog with grilled peppers and onions with mushrooms. Probably the best hot dog I’ve every had.  They also serve these hot potato chips, and they’re excellent.  I heard two different customers while I was there exclaim “I just LOVE them!”.

Lots of hot dog/sausage and toppings to choose from.  Here’s their website.

I’m interested to hear your feedback.  If you’ve tried any of these restaurants, including Berkeley Dog, or others in the Saddleback area that deserve a rave, please comment below.

Bob Hope Timeless Melodies Presentation – This Sunday, 6/27 @ 7pm

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If you haven’t been attending Larry Maurer’s Timeless Melodies presentations, you have really missed out.  They’re fabulous!  I’ve even enjoyed it when it’s featured someone I didn’t feel particular affinity for.  Plan on coming, and bring someone you think would enjoy it.   Somehow, it just gives you a lift  You won’t be sorry.

In the Mission Viejo Council Chamber this Sunday, June 27th at 7:00 pm for a NEW Timeless Melodies presentation by Larry Maurer: Bob Hope: Memories and Laughs From vaudeville dancer to international celebrity, Bob Hope captured our hearts and made us laugh for over 70 years. Larry traces the wonderful history of America’s greatest comedian. This is one you won’t want to miss. Tickets may be purchased at the door beginning at 6:30 PM for $10.

Mission Viejo’s Frapys Yogurt, My Favorite, Now Offering Caramel Green Apple + More New Flavors

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I’ve written before about Frapys and why they’re my favorite yogurt shop, which includes their use of super-premium quality yogurt (Click Here).  Went there last night with a friend and found a few new flavors, most of which were out of this world:  Lowfat Caramel Green Apple (OMG!), Nonfat Butter Brickle and Coconut Cream Pie, both excellent.  Not a new flavor but still may be my favorite, and the most popular, the shop owner tells me,  is the Italian Kiss Gelato, with the richest tasting chocolate I’ve ever experienced in a yogurt.  Another favorite is the Lowfat Dulce de Lecha, a  caramel-type flavor.  I’m not a fan of tart flavors, but if you are, there’s quite a few, and two choices of No Sugar Added – strawberry/banana and chocolate.  They offer a lot of flavors, more than Yogurtland, and are generous with giving you sample cups to try out all the flavors you’re curious about.  $.35/ounce

24001 Via Fabricante, one block west of Jeronimo off of Alicia Parkway. (949) 215-3100, Open 7 days a week, 11am-11pm.

They’ve recently opened a 2nd store in Lake Forest, but offer less flavors.  23600 Rockfield Bl.  (949) 462-9400, Mon-Thurs and Sun, 11am-11pm; Fri and Sat, 11am-12 am.