15th  ANNUAL TASTE OF DANA Why Go: The Taste of Dana is a unique dining experience, where folks can get a "taste" of 25 different local restaurants, including  Salt Creek Grille, Chronic Tacos, El Torito and more. Wine is optionally available for adults, a DJ provides music and entertainment, and a raffle includes wonderful prizes such as spa packages, hotel stays, golf outings and basketball tickets. This fun event is also the best dining deal in south Orange County! Buy tickets in advance at tasteofdana.com. Where/When: Salt Creek Beach Park, Dana Point. Thursday, March 24. Tasting from 5:…

UNCORKED WINE BAR AND BOUTIQUE Why Go: Every Wednesday night is Ladies Night at Uncorked Wine Bar and Boutique. This place is one of Rancho Santa Margarita’s best-kept secrets, a gem tucked away in the heart of the town. The owners pride themselves on not being a “wine snob bar” and are happy to answer questions about any wine in stock. The cozy, intimate atmosphere serves as the perfect backdrop for your next ladies’ night out. For groups of three or more, Uncorked offers happy hour all night, no charge for bottle opening, a free chocolate plate with wine flight, and 10 percent off bottles …

Your feet ache from chasing the kids around all day and you can't remember the last time you sat down and took a deep breath. We've got the perfect night out for you. SPA GREGORIES Why Go: Spa Gregories is one of the finest day spas in Rancho Santa Margarita. Try the Lavender and Sea Salts Pedicure ($50). It includes a one-hour relaxing foot soak, exfoliation, nail shaping, massage and polish. If you're expecting, you won't want to miss out on the Mother-to-be Signature Pedicure ($70). For a relaxing 1-1/4 hours, enjoy listening to soft lullabies while babying your legs and feet. This …

It's Friday night and the kids are out with their friends. Your husband is out with the guys. And you? TSPOONS COOKING SCHOOL Why Go:  TSpoons is a cooking school specializing in hands-on cooking classes and parties for all ages. Enjoy learning from some of southern California’s finest chefs and restaurant owners. Class sizes range from  8-12 attendees and sell out fast.  If the kids are home, have Dad watch them while you gather your girlfriends for a unique evening of food and fun. This Friday night, sign up for “Fresh Ideas for Fish.” You’ll learn how to whip up blackened salmon, fried …

The kids are jamming at the neighbor's house fully engaged in a Guitar Hero marathon, and you have some time make your own music—the kind that will clear your head. Each week, we’ll tell you about an idea to give you a much deserved break, and make your life a little easier, maybe a whole lot easier. MR. AND MS. DAY SPA Mr. and Ms. Day Spa is a one-of-a-kind day spa in Rancho Santa Margarita, offering luxurious treatments for both men and women at affordable prices. Massage, waxing, facials and body wraps are just a few of the treatments offered at this location. Many massage options are …

Your teens are holding a car wash at the high school Saturday. The grandparents volunteered to take the younger children to a movie Sunday afternoon. Your tweens take tap on Wednesday evening. It’s your time. Take it. Each week, we’ll tell you about an idea to give you a much deserved break, and make your life a little easier, maybe a whole lot easier. CHAMPAGNE AND CUPCAKE TESTING Where/When: Uncorked Wine Bar and Boutique,  22342 El Paseo, Unit A, Rancho Santa Margarita Friday, Feb., 11 and Saturday, Feb., 12, 6:30 to 11 p.m. Why Go:  Celebrate Valentine's Day early! Sample three different …