If you are itching to be part of the city nightlife but couldn’t secure a sitter, check out the East Coast Grill in Inman Square. The Grill offers some of the best seafood in the city; the restaurant is brimming with bustle and fire, but is surprisingly kid friendly.

While there is no formal kid's menu, the staff is happy to accommodate little ones with the more kid-friendly elements from the menu (e.g., cornbread, watermelon, fried plantains) and can down-spice entree elements on request. And your babe will have plenty to soak in visually, what with lots of large, brightly colored fish hanging on the wall, funky light art, different patterns and textures on the floors and walls, and little toys and baubles in the beverages. You also can take your babe to see the chefs working their mojo behind the open kitchen.

East Coast Grill, 1271 Cambridge Street, Cambridge (Inman Square), Tel: 617-491-6568

Posted by Christine Koh on 30 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Food & Drink; Local
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Is the mere thought of impending holiday travel and family chaos already making you anxious?

Engage in some preventative art therapy with the Couple’s Genealogy Tree from Red Envelope ($120). This beautiful do-it-yourself kit allows you to interact with your family at a creative distance. The set includes: two espresso-stained wooden frames, 100 orange and red maple-shaped leaves in two sizes (denoting maternal and paternal family members), ivory mounting board, family name placards, instructions, mounting tape and template. Each frame measures 12" x 1 1/2" x 19" high.

Posted by Christine Koh on 29 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Arts & Crafts; Decor & Furniture; Home
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Pursuant to a post on public libraries, I received a fabulous library tip from a father of twin toddlers.

Family expansion likely correlates with exponential increase in overdue books; if this scenario sounds familiar, check out the Library Elf. Sign up for this free service and input your library card numbers; the Elf sends you a reminder e-mail (or SMS to your phone) a configurable number of days before books are due, and continues to send a daily reminder until you return the book.

Check Library Elf’s list of libraries; they serve an impressive number of library systems in the US, Canada, and internationally.

Posted by Christine Koh on 28 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (1) | Filed in Home; Solutions
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Sometimes the craft projects suggested by high-end magazines result in more frustration than fun.

So we're appreciative of a project idea from Child (September issue) that is both unbelievably cute and doable. These brown bag critters (click thumbnail to enlarge) make for cheery school lunches, favor bags, or a creative activity at home.

Have your child decide on an animal, then fold down the top of a lunch bag and trim the end to be round or pointed (depending on the animal). Cut out colorful paper pieces (pretty paper scraps from other projects, wrapping paper, construction paper, stuff from your recycling bin) for the animal appendages (e.g., arms, ears, tail). Adhere the pieces to the bag using double sided tape or washable glue sticks. Create eyes, whiskers, etc... out of craft accessories (e.g., googly eyes, pipe cleaners); or for a low budget approach, draw in these details with markers.

Posted by Christine Koh on 28 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Arts & Crafts; Home
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On Saturday, September 30 at 3pm Isis Maternity in Needham is offering an event for families composed of two moms (or dads) + baby. Financial Advisor Blythe Meyomesse and Family Lawyer Joyce Kauffman, Esq. will offer their expertise on financial and legal issues facing non-traditional families. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions. Registration is required (Tel: 781-429-1597). This event is free for members ($19 for non-members); extended families and infants are welcome free of charge.

Posted by Christine Koh on 27 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Local; Pre & Postnatal Services
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Sometimes little people just want to be taken seriously.

A mama pal offers high praise for the Ikea AGAM highchair ($34.99). Easy to assemble, stylish, and completely unobtrusive (I didn’t even notice it at the dining room table with all of the adult chairs), this solid wood piece makes my pal’s son feel like a big boy, up at the proper height with everyone else.

Ikea recommends this chair for children 3 years+, although apparently toddlers who can understand and follow commands can handle this chair with supervision. My pal notes that the lack of safety straps resulted in an unexpected benefit; because her 28-month old needs to be “super careful” at the table, his maniac dining tendencies (e.g., pushing away from the table, kicking and squirming) have evaporated.

Posted by Christine Koh on 27 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Feeding & Nursing; Gear
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The next time you are preparing to purge baby/kid stuff from your home, consider donating to Cradles to Crayons, an organization committed to providing poor and homeless children from Massachusetts (infancy to age 12) with everyday clothes, gear, toys, and school supplies.

Last year alone, Cradles to Crayons provided 25,000 local children with high-quality goods to keep them warm, safe at home, and ready to learn at school. Find out about the different ways you can help their cause, and the types of items accepted for donation.

Posted by Christine Koh on 26 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Good Deeds; Local; Outreach
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I’m having a tough time wrestling the summer sandals from the babe; but when we have managed to slide on her cute and comfy Lands' End Toddler Girls' Print All Weather Mary Jane Shoes ($34.50 in Toddler and Little Kid/Big Kid sizes, solid or print), we’re thrilled with the result.

We’ve praised Lands’ End’s footwear before and these Mary Jane’s don’t disappoint. Ladylike yet rugged, the toe box is ample enough for Laurel's chubby feet (a.k.a. “meat hammers,” from the days when we attempted to co-sleep and ended up getting kicked in the throat), and the construction offers a ground gripping, all-terrain sole, adjustable strap, anti-microbial micro fleece lining to help prevent stinky feet, and weather-resistant suede leather uppers.

Posted by Christine Koh on 26 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Fashion; For Little Ones
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I am a craft nerd. One of these days I’ll unveil my design site to you all; I love when special occasions arise so I can design paper goods (e.g., invites, announcements, stationery, memory books or boxes) or sew cute little felt animals onto shirts and blankets.

Not surprisingly, I was intrigued when my friend Andrew suggested I check out Craft. Craft was launched by Make (a project guide for science/tech gurus), and focuses on the art and science of all things crafty.

The neuroscientist in me couldn’t help but appreciate Craft’s recent post on The Museum of Scientifically Accurate Fabric Brain Art. Marjorie Taylor and Karen Norberg’s creations are inspired by research from neuroscience and dissection. Shown here is their construction of the two cerebral hemispheres (separated), cerebellum, and spinal cord.

OK, I'm afraid this post evidences that I'm a nerd twice over.

Posted by Christine Koh on 25 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Arts & Crafts; Home
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If your babe loves art projects, the Sponge Painters by Alex Toys ($3.99) likely will be a big hit. These brushes were an unexpected boon the morning of Laurel’s birthday party; she was so engrossed in them (the waffle roller brush is her fave) that she painted for an hour and a half, allowing me to tidy the house around her, prepare gift bags, and complete a little craft project of my own alongside her. And she actually would have gone on longer had one of her aunts not shown up with a box of baked goods.

We also bought the Alex 6-pack of washable poster paint ($3.99) and a Strathmore paint pad (heavy duty paper to absorb paint without puckering), although any poster paint and cover weight paper would do. My one suggestion is that if your child has a favorite color, pick up a big bottle of poster paint in that color. We were in a bad way once we ran out of yellow.

See Alex’ website to find local retailers.

Posted by Christine Koh on 25 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Art Supplies & Toys
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As I’ve written earlier, when relocating with kids – and all of their associated gear – it’s time to hire professional movers. For our recent move we used Careful Carriers. This small operation was the least expensive of several companies I called, and they were top notch. Personally, the moving team was considerate, polite and friendly; professionally, they were punctual, efficient, and freakishly strong (I can barely heft one crate of books, much less 3 crates on my back). The team also was incredibly sweet towards our babe, who was – understandably – slightly freaked about the sight of these dudes walking out of the house with all of our stuff. Laurel especially warmed to the mover who helped her dad put the crib together in the new house.

Careful Carriers offers local and long distance residential/commercial moves. Tel: 781-641-0376.

Posted by Christine Koh on 23 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Domestics; Local
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You’ll be glad to kick back and regress with a pair of the cuddly Adult Sock Monkey Slippers from Uncommon Goods ($28). Made of cotton and machine washable, these slippers are offered in sizes to fit women’s 6 and up and men’s 4 and up.

Posted by Christine Koh on 22 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (2) | Filed in Gifts & Paper; Home
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Looking for a wild outdoor adventure before the rain hits this weekend? The Massachusetts Audubon Society’s Drumlin Farm offers a host of activities, among them a fully functioning farmyard, animal exhibits, learning gardens, hayrides, and hiking trails (during the summer, they also offer camp programs). The farm has free parking, family bathrooms, a picnic area, farm stand, and gift shop. They also offer birthday party hosting services during the school year.

Drumlin Farm is open from 9am-5pm March - October; 9am-4pm November - February. The farm is closed Mondays except on federal Monday holidays. Admission: $6 for nonmember adults; $4 for nonmember children (3-12) and seniors.

Drumlin Farm, 208 South Great Road, Lincoln; Tel: 781-259-2200

Posted by Christine Koh on 22 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Fun Outdoors; Kid's Parties; Local
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Infants are limited to nonverbal communication; no wonder they respond so well to massage and signing. Sheryl White, owner of Baby Kneads, is an established infant massage and signing teacher serving the Metro West and Boston area. Sheryl offers tutelage in a number of formats: out of her home in Southborough, through private consultations in client’s homes, with teachers at day care centers, through free programs at libraries and family networks, and at Isis Maternity ($40.00 for signing and $25.00 for massage; 10% discount for members) and WarmLines ($25.00 for members; $35.00 for non-members for infant massage).

Click here to contact Baby Kneads about public programs and individual consultation.

Posted by Christine Koh on 21 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Local; Pre & Postnatal Services
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The “all by self” phase, coupled with development of dressing (and undressing) skills and/or potty training, can lead to tired waistband elastics and droopy drawers for your little one.

Solve this problem in style with the Myself Belt ($14.50 at Amazon, shown in Sailboat), an accessory that promotes independence by allowing children (ages 2-6) to easily fasten and unfasten their belt on their own. These belts come in a variety of cute styles for girls and boys, as well as simple black leather ($15.50) for more formal occasions.

Posted by Christine Koh on 21 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (1) | Filed in Diapers & Potty; Fashion; For Little Ones
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There are few foolproof things in life, but let me share one of them with you.

This recipe for scallion pancakes takes a mere 5-7 minutes to prep, and won’t last long coming off the skillet. If you’d like to channel the unofficial Korean mantra “leave no food scrap behind,” root around in your refrigerator for interesting leftovers; for Korean pajon, scallions often are replaced by other assorted chopped vegetables or cooked meat.

Posted by Christine Koh on 20 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (1) | Filed in Home; Recipes
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You have to be pretty cold hearted to not feel at least a little bit bad about leaving a really nasty diaper behind at Grandma’s or in a public restroom. Prior to taking a family vacation at a small bed and breakfast (where the owners clean the rooms), my mama pal Kate was thrilled to stumble across a product called Fresh Sacks. These compact, odor neutralizing sacks offer a considerate, sanitary means for disposing of diapers in public spaces.

Available at Walgreen’s, or for $6.95 (6 boxes, 25 sacks per box) in the BabyCenter diapering section.

Posted by Christine Koh on 20 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Diapers & Potty
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Dear Readers: Ah, technology is supposed to make life easier right?

For our mailing list, we use a double opt-in system: once you submit the subscription form you are sent an e-mail requiring confirmation (simply by clicking on a link). This system protects against incorrect e-mail entry or someone adding a person to our mailing list against their wishes (although really, who wouldn't wish to be on the Boston Mamas list?).

Unfortunately, we have learned from a few readers (who contacted us when their confirmation e-mail never showed up) that their confirmation automatically got coded as spam by their e-mail provider and was moved to the junk/bulk mail folder.

You must click on the link in the confirmation e-mail otherwise you won’t be added to our list (and thus won’t be entered to win our current Chloe In Style contest). If you subscribed but don’t recall receiving a confirmation e-mail, please fill out the subscription form again (and add subscriptions@bostonmamas.com to your e-mail address book to prevent automated blocking). If you wish to confirm your subscription, please e-mail us. We apologize for this inconvenience, and thank you for your readership! And we're looking forward to seeing who the lucky Chloe In Style winner is!

Posted by Christine Koh on 19 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Web (Admin)
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This past weekend we celebrated my daughter’s 2nd birthday. In contrast to last year’s giant, lunatic three-tiered birthday cake (some of which, it occurs to me, is still in our freezer), I decided to go simple. Just cupcakes. But then of course the day before the party I started to obsess about Laurel not having her own cake. I called my mama pal Paige and the “awww!” elicited by the mere mention of a cute little mini cake rendered me powerless in the pantry.

After comparing recipes from a few of my baking references (for this particular project, The Cake Bible and Williams-Sonoma Mastering: Cakes, Fillings & Frostings) I realized that the cupcake recipe I posted earlier is pretty much equivalent to standard 9-inch two-layer butter cake recipes. After some fuzzy volume estimation, I decided to double the cupcake recipe (i.e., to render 48 cupcakes), but only make 3 trays of cupcakes (36), splitting the remaining batter between two 6-inch cake pans. This worked perfectly and easily; the result was a beautiful mini cake flanked by a fleet of super cute cupcakes. Never mind that the babe was so busy munching on edamame that she barely acknowledged the cake, candles, and song! It’s the thought that counts, right?

Click here for an updated version of the cupcake recipe with instructions on how to make, assemble, and frost 36 cupcakes + one 6-inch layer cake. You, too, can be a lunatic baker.

Posted by Christine Koh on 19 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Home; Recipes
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Your babe loves rooting around in the recycling bin, so why not encourage this green perspective by engaging in a hunt for craft supplies? Kids Craft Weekly offers craft ideas for toddlers and preschoolers, with an eye towards incorporating everyday household items or recyclables into imaginative, budget-friendly projects. This week’s theme on Pigs will leave you with a litter of eco piggies, and your babe oinking for more.

Posted by Christine Koh on 18 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Arts & Crafts; Eco Living; Home
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Just because your current exposure to the art world largely involves finger paints doesn’t mean you can’t fake it along with the best of them. The 20th Century Art Book ($9.95 at Amazon) is a compact paperback A to Z guide to 500 artists, each represented per page with a color plate, historical description, and cross-references by subject matter, style, or medium.

Posted by Christine Koh on 17 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Books & Entertainment; For Grownups
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A mama pal, unwilling to pay discount club membership dues in order to stock up on diapers, has found great deals through www.1800diapers.com. She reports that this online resource offers “good prices [on diapering supplies and formula], fast and cheap (sometimes free!) shipping, and accepts manufacturers coupons. Definitely a strong recommendation from us over here!”

Posted by Christine Koh on 16 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Diapers & Potty
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Venezuelan cuisine isn’t abundant in the Boston area, but it hardly matters with La Casa De Pedro on the block. During lunch and dinner, you’ll likely see chef-owner Pedro Alarcon welcoming guests, directing staff, and ensuring that patrons are enjoying their authentically and flavorfully prepared meals.

La Casa De Pedro offers a bright yet warm dining room with an open kitchen concept, and an enclosed courtyard out back. You’ll do well starting with the crispy, piping hot empanadas (filled corn turnovers) and ending with the superb coconut flan; whatever you choose in between those courses surely will not disappoint.

La Casa De Pedro, 51 Main Street, Watertown, Tel: 617-923-8025

Posted by Christine Koh on 15 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (1) | Filed in Food & Drink; Local
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Our quick and easy bedtime routine evaporated when we moved a couple of weeks ago. Pre-move, after stories we could leave the room and Laurel would happily chat and sing her way to sleep. Now there’s a lot of stalling and sadness if we try to leave when she is awake. From what we could understand from Laurel, she was scared of the dark.

While our move clearly changed things, a conversation with the mom of one of Laurel’s pals – who, even as the world’s most unflappable toddler, recently has become fearful of the dark – prompted me to look further into night fears.

Night fears apparently are a typical developmental marker for 2-3 year olds. A useful article from Parenting iVillage points out that toddlers haven’t yet mastered the idea of object constancy in terms of understanding that things that weren’t already present don’t just develop in the dark. This idea really clicked; last week we heard a dog barking outside, and Laurel kept saying “noisy dog, no come in Laurel’s room.” I thought she was just cutely obsessing about the dog barking; now I can only assume that her imagination was off to the races, thinking about the noisy and scary dog coming into her room.

Among Parenting iVillage’s coping tips, the ideas of really listening and acknowledging the fears made a lot of sense both short and long-term. Last night instead of simply trying to comfort Laurel and tell her that her room was a safe place, I asked about her fears and we talked about them for a while. In addition to the darkness (remedied by leaving the hallway light on) I learned that “big house, mommy daddy too far away” was an issue (our new flat is on two floors, with all the bedrooms upstairs). We talked more about this concern and by the end of the conversation, although Laurel still would have rather had me hold her hand until she conked out, she fell asleep quicker and with far less fuss than she has over the last couple of weeks.

Posted by Christine Koh on 15 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Childcare; Sleep
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Boston Mamas is thrilled to announce its first product giveaway contest in partnership with Chloe In Style, a purveyor of fabulous finds for women and kids. Subscription to our newsletter automatically enters you to win both the vividly designed Garden Party Purse Journal (perfectly sized to toss in your bag for notetaking on the go), and the fashionable and functional Buddha Baby Tee (unisex, 100% organic cotton lap tee in 6-12 or 18-24 months).

This contest runs until Saturday, September 30th; drawing and notification (by e-mail) will occur the week of October 1st.
This particular contest is limited to US & Canada residents; however, international residents are welcome to subscribe to receive information on future contests. If you already have subscribed to our newsletter, you need not take further action other than checking your inbox the first week of October!

Please direct contest inquires to contests@bostonmamas.com. Good luck everyone!

Posted by Christine Koh on 14 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (9) | Filed in Web (Admin)
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Save for when cheese or cupcakes are on the table, I’ve never seen a pack of toddlers go as crazy as when Go, Dog, Go! ($4.99 at Amazon) comes off the bookshelf. Whether it’s the catchy rhythm, colorful illustrations, or the silliness of seeing dogs race around via unusual means of transport, this classic will have your babe clamoring for more reads. The small board book format is especially well suited for little hands.

Posted by Christine Koh on 13 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (2) | Filed in Books & Entertainment; For Babies & Kids
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Isn't it marvelous that play = learning for little ones? If you need a change of scenery from your current toys, space, and recycling bin (location of some of our babe's most fascinating finds), check out the Play Academy in Medford. Highly recommended by a Boston area mama, the Play Academy was founded and developed by a mother of two. Weekly classes (ages 3 months and up) are designed to stimulate cognitive, social and emotional development; you can register for sessions in blocks of 10 ($140), 15 ($195), or 20 ($240) weeks. Play Academy also hosts birthday parties.

Play Academy, 25 Riverside Avenue, Medford; Tel: 1-781-738-PLAY

Posted by Christine Koh on 13 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Fun Indoors; Kid's Parties; Local
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The distress is palpable when you say something to your kid that sounds as if it came straight out of your parents’ mouth. To cope, Boston Mamas’ contributing therapist Adelaide Smith, MSW, highly recommends Siegel & Hartzell’s (2004) Parenting from the Inside Out (regularly $14.95; currently on sale for $10.17 at Amazon). Siegel and Hartzell (a child psychiatrist and an early childhood expert, respectively) review findings in neurobiology and attachment research; they explain how interpersonal relationships impact brain development, and offer practical suggestions to forming a deeper understanding of one’s life stories, which will help parents raise compassionate and resilient children.

Posted by Christine Koh on 12 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Books & Entertainment; For Grownups
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Sometimes it's hard to stomach when the price tag on your babe's shoes is higher than your own. If you’re searching for deals on comfy, quality kicks, check out the Saucony Factory Outlet in Inman Square. My super fit, marathon-running sister (a.k.a. Laurel’s Auntie Sha-Sha) just passed on the tip that the Saucony Outlet also serves as a Stride Rite Outlet.

Saucony Factory Outlet, 1036 Cambridge Street, Cambridge, Tel: 617-547-4397.

Posted by Christine Koh on 12 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Local; Retail
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Public libraries are an amazing resource; in addition to active children's room programs (e.g., story times, sing-alongs), many libraries have museum pass programs to permit free or reduced admission to Boston's many cultural attractions.

Libraries differ in their offerings (search for your local library website via the Massachusetts Library Directory), but many tend to have affiliations with the major museums (e.g., Museum of Fine Arts, Children’s Museum, Museum of Science, New England Aquarium) and outdoor venues (e.g., Garden in the Woods, Massachusetts Audubon Society).

Posted by Christine Koh on 11 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (1) | Filed in Fun Indoors; Local
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Fashion meets function with the super cute Lands' End Toddler Girls' Appliqué Skort. This skirt with hidden knit shorts allows your babe to look like a lady without hindering play. Made of 100% cotton corduroy or denim and embellished with wrap around embroidery, buttons, and appliqués, these skorts come in plum purple (with dog; shown), rich brown (with horse), light stone (with cat), indigo (with house), and bright coral pink (with flowers). Available in toddlers’ 2T-4T ($22.50) and girls’ 4-8 ($24.50).

Posted by Christine Koh on 11 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Fashion; For Little Ones
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Life’s major transitions are ever present and can be overwhelming without help.

A few weeks ago, Barbara Meltz of the Globe offered a feature (“A fresh start: Visiting Moms help new mothers care for, and understand, their babies” 8/21/06) on the Jewish Family & Children's Service (JF&CS). JF&CS has served the Greater Boston community for over 140 years, offering support to children and families, seniors, and people with disabilities regardless of background or ability to pay.

Meltz’ article focuses on the JF&CS’ Visiting Moms program, in which volunteers complete training sessions and receive supervision, and share their experience and compassion with new mothers.

Other resources include support groups for mothers of multiples, new mothers, postpartum adjustment, and lesbian new parents, and an adoption resources orientation. The seniors' resources also likely will be of interest given that as we age, so do our parents.

JF&CS has locations in Waltham, Boston, and Norwood; support groups and events occur across the Greater Boston area.

Posted by Christine Koh on 10 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Family Issues; Local; Outreach; Pre & Postnatal Services
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I love shopping, especially when I can get a bargain.

Last week I needed to buy a yellow rug for Laurel (more on that in another post, pending transaction…). I narrowed in on a cool rug and found a merchant offering the best price plus free shipping. At check out I saw the coupon/promotional code entry box, Googled the vendor name + “coupon” and in a matter of minutes came up with an active coupon code for 10% off; I ended up saving $30 on my rug.

So next time you're shopping online, take a minute to check for coupons or promotions (via search engine, or our Mama Loves a Bargain offers affiliate promotions). One caveat: some sites aren’t great about pulling down expired codes. A good rule of thumb is to decide how long you are willing to poke around (10 minutes is my maximum); and perhaps be specific in your search to start (e.g., vendor name + “coupon” or “promotion code” + “expires” to get a code with a listed expiration date).

Posted by Christine Koh on 9 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Home; Solutions
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If you’re looking to squeeze a little more summer out of summer, check out the 17th Annual Hampton Beach Seafood Festival running today through Sunday (September 8-10, 2006). A mere hour drive from Boston, the festival has been heralded as "One of the Top 100 Events in North America" by the American Business Association, and includes seafood offerings from over 50 of the Seacoast's top restaurants, nearly 200 local arts & crafts and merchant vendors, a full schedule of events for kids at KiddieLand, culinary chef demonstrations, and live entertainment. Fireworks and skydiving also are on the schedule, as is a 5K road race (pre-registration required).

Festival planners have organized free parking and shuttle service from 13 in-town satellite parking lots; for those who want to park closer to the beach, Hampton Beach Trolleys offers free shuttle service from the State Park near the Seabrook Bridge.

Festival admission: Friday night is free, individual Saturday and Sunday adult admission is $5 per day or a 2-day pass is available for $8. Children under 12 admitted free of charge.

Posted by Christine Koh on 8 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Food & Drink; Fun Outdoors; Local
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Making a mess in the kitchen never looked saucier.

You’ll want to get your June Cleaver groove on with the fun and flirty aprons available at Chloe in Style. These cheeky, multi-tiered masterpieces come in half and full apron styles ($38-$42). And if you have a little helper at home, several of the styles come in matching kid sizes ($28-$32).

In addition to these nifty aprons, Chloe in Style’s chic collection includes paper goods, baby products (apparel, accessories, gear, décor, gifts), and women’s apparel (including soft and stylish maternity tees).

Posted by Christine Koh on 7 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Decor & Furniture; Fashion; For Little Ones; For Mamas & Mamas-to-be; Gifts & Paper; Home
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I have an unofficial Mama Hall of Fame; among the members are a Canadian friend who has the most impressive poop-removal/soak/double-launder cloth diapering routine I’ve ever witnessed, and a local pal who – at about 79 lbs. soaking wet – nursed her first child for 26 months, her twins for 16 months, and is at 16 months and counting with her 4th baby.

This week there’s a new inductee on the block. The son of a dear friend unfortunately had latch on problems right off the bat. Continued efforts and extra time in the hospital were unsuccessful. My girlfriend, who experienced a long labor and lots of pushing, a C-section when things didn't progress, and manual expression of colostrum from her breasts by the nursing staff (ouch), was in dire need of a break.

Instead, she spent the next month pumping every three hours around the clock between continuing latch on efforts with her babe and seeing lactation consultants. Anyone who has pumped once will appreciate what an unbelievable feat this is. I have related this story to several pro-breastfeeding mamas and all of us – having experienced the world of pumping – think we probably would have given up, or thrown ourselves and our pumps out the nearest window.

At long last, my friend finally caught a break. Her umpteenth lactation consultant suggested using the Medela nipple shield (available in sizes suitable for full-term and premature babies; $7.95 at BabyCenter) and she has been pump free for a week! If you are experiencing latch on problems, consult a lactation professional, but keep the nipple shield in mind for suggestion. While grateful that she and her son are finally getting into a nursing groove, my friend is appalled that the nipple shield wasn’t suggested earlier.

Posted by Christine Koh on 7 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Feeding & Nursing; Mama in the Workplace
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My babe recently started saying, “Fall is coming!” Indeed. If you haven't yet had the chance, take advantage of the remaining good weather and enjoy the Swan Boats of Boston before the season's end. Until September 17, 2006, rides are available from 12 – 4pm on weekdays, and 10am to 4pm on weekends.

And there’s plenty to do before or after the 15-minute cruise. Head over to the fabulous Frog Pond Park, stretch out on the grass for a picnic, or stroll the shops on nearby Charles Street.

Swan Boats at the Boston Public Garden; Arlington station (Green line) or park at the Boston Common Underground Parking Garage. Swan boat fares are $2.75 for adults, $1.25 for kids (ages 2 – 15), and $2 for seniors. Tel: 617-522-1966.

Posted by Christine Koh on 6 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Fun Outdoors; Local
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There isn't much sex appeal associated with pumping (I believe Jon let out an extended, definitive, and less than supportive "mooo!" when he first saw me pump), but if you’d like to feel - as a mama pal describes - “vaguely like [an Austin Powers] femme bot” (while pumping efficiently of course), try the Easy Expressions Bustier.

A terrific pump at work solution, the bustier makes hands-free double pumping easy through a strapless, zip-front design. Available in small (32-34), medium (34-36), large (38-40), and extra-large (42-44) for $33.95 (see the Breastfeeding Accessories section of BabyCenter).

Posted by Christine Koh on 6 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Fashion; Feeding & Nursing; For Mamas & Mamas-to-be; Mama in the Workplace
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Jewelry designer Ali Shenk puts it right out there. Her company is You’re Beautiful, a source for handcrafted jewelry that can’t help but give you a bit of a boost. The vibrant Green Apple Stem Earrings, made of peridot chips, green apple quartz, and sterling silver ($33; shown) are a fun and versatile pick.

Purchases from You’re Beautiful will make you feel good inside and out; proceeds from each purchase are donated to charity. September’s charity is the Joslin Diabetes Center.

Shipping is free for first class USPS, or you can find Ali’s designs locally at The Beauty Mark (33 Charles Street, Boston) or Boutique Fabulous (1309 Cambridge Street, Cambridge).

Posted by Christine Koh on 5 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Fashion; For Mamas & Mamas-to-be; Local; Retail
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During a recent park outing I saw an elderly Asian man playing with his granddaughter, and I immediately was overcome with sadness over the loss of my father, who died last year. Before I knew it, tears were leaking out of my eyes and Laurel was saying “Uh oh, Mommy sad! Mommy crying!” When I told Laurel I was crying because I missed my “Aboji” (father, in Korean) she said “Aboji, up high in the sky!” at which point I nearly needed to crawl into the tube slide to compose myself.

It’s difficult for me to imagine that Laurel actually remembers her interactions with my father; she was only 10 months old when he died, although we did see him 2-3 times a week during the last 6 months of his life. Obviously, at that time we couldn't converse with Laurel about death, but ever since she became verbal enough to ask about my father in pictures or inquire about him at “Aboji’s party” (recent one year memorial service) we have had to think more about how to communicate the concept of death to Laurel.

Among the many resources offered to patients and caregivers, Hospice provides a detailed article on how to talk to children about death; ParentCenter (a branch of BabyCenter) offers suggestions on how to approach the subject with preschoolers and older kids.

Posted by Christine Koh on 5 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Family Issues
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WorldWIT, a global network for women in business and technology, kicks off National Breastfeeding at Work Week (September 4-8, 2006) today. In addition to advocating for resources and education for nursing mothers, WorldWIT formally recognizes businesses that support nursing moms, and offers companies the opportunity to show their dedication to creating a work environment that supports nursing women via their Milk Works pledge program.

If you are nursing and returning to work, don’t be afraid to ask about space to pump. There may be resources in existence that you don’t know about, or your employer should (at the very least in good conscience) make accommodations so that pumping in bathroom quickly becomes a thing of the past.

Posted by Christine Koh on 4 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Feeding & Nursing; Mama in the Workplace
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Ah, rain. It can feel like the kiss of death, especially on a holiday weekend. If you aren't up for battling the crowds at the mall or grocery store, check out the rainy day activity guides at FamilyEducation.com. Aside from the general resource page, there also are activity pages specifically geared towards toddlers, preschoolers, and kids ages 6-10.

Posted by Christine Koh on 3 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (1) | Filed in Arts & Crafts; Home
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Your little cupcake will look good enough to eat in this super cute Organic Baby Gift Set ($48, shown in cupcake) from Red Envelope. Earth friendly from the inside out, the 100% premium organic cotton bodysuit, burp cloth, and bib set comes packaged in a recycled earth-tone craft box.

Choose from cupcake, monkey, sweet pea, or peanut motifs; comes in one size (6-12 months).

Posted by Christine Koh on 2 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Eco Living; Fashion; For Little Ones
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Our babe may have a future in human resources.

She’s both a little cautious (strangers have to earn the love), and – we think – highly tuned in to people. Even with her recent spell of anxiety (related to school and home transition), she’ll still warm up quickly to some strangers. Current evidence: our new landlord, who stopped by to fix a couple of things in our flat and unexpectedly was sequestered by Laurel to help with a lizard puzzle. (Maybe it was a sixth sense thing; turns out the landlord has extensive knowledge about lizards.)

Anyhow, Laurel's skills inadvertently came to use at her day care, during a search for a new toddler teacher. The candidates spent time in the toddler room, and when Laurel made an immediate connection with one of them, it was informally decided that teachers to whom Laurel warmed up quickly should be offered a job. I think the line actually was something like “If this person meets Laurel's approval, any of the kids will like her!”

While I feel a bit bad for any terrific candidates who didn’t make “Laurel’s Cut,” her judgment does seem to hold. I just met the new toddler teacher the other day and she seems fabulous.

Posted by Christine Koh on 1 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Development & Behavior
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Aside from the general chaos factor, having a second baby presents a transport issue, particularly if your first still requires periodic strolling.

A mama friend gives major kudos to the Valco Runabout Tri Mode stroller ($425 at BabyCenter shipping is free, a rain/wind shield is included). Cool looking and compact, the Valco three-wheel all-terrain stroller offers full recline for infants, and toddlers will love the royal perspective from the toddler attachment seat ($40). If you like the look of a pram, a bassinet attachment ($150) also is available.

The height-adjustable handles make this stroller a good find for couples with a substantial height differential. Open dimensions: 36"L x 26"W x 40"H; folded: 32"L x 26"W x 16"H; weight: 25 lbs. Suitable from birth to 50 lbs.

Posted by Christine Koh on 1 Sep 2006 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Gear; Travel
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