Like many people, I periodically fall off the fitness and eating well wagon, typically due to stress and sometimes due to injury. And though I happily resumed exercise once I received my 6-week postpartum clearance, this fall, self-care fell to the wayside due to new home and work commitments. And it's taken it's toll. Not only do I feel a little squishy around the edges, but more troubling, I've felt tired, tense, and well in need of a vantage point beyond my laptop.

Like many moms, it often feels impossible to carve out time. But despite my current scenario -- starting this week I have even less childcare hours in which to run multiple businesses -- I am committed to making this happen. I've been jotting down inspiration points over the past week; here are 11 easy ways to get back to fitness -- all of them have helped motivate me at one time or another!

1. Chat with a fitness-enthused friend. Over the Thanksgiving weekend, I saw my friend Andrew, a couch (computer?) potato turned marathon runner. His energy is utterly infectious and after talking with him about his training, I felt eager to lace up my sneakers. Also, when he says stuff like, "I went for a 15 mile run this morning" I figure I can make the time to run 15 minutes.

2. Rally via social media. I credit social media (particularly, my friends behind The Shredheads) for getting me back on the fitness wagon a couple of years ago. There's something oddly motivating about putting out there that you are waffling about a run and then having a bunch of people tweet or Facebook you, barking at you to get your butt out the door. And just the other day, I posted that I took a 15 minute midday break to stretch and encouraged other people to do the same -- even if they got weird looks at the office -- and people responded, thanking me for the inspiration and telling me they stretched. So fun!

3. Pick up a fitness magazine. The other day I bought a running magazine -- there's something about the glossy photos featuring happy people working out that helps me forget (temporarily at least!) how labored I sometimes feel when I'm out on the pavement. Plus, I usually pick up some good tips for nutrition or short workouts.

4. Remember that 10-20 minutes is still awesome. Pursuant to the above point, I once read in a running magazine that 10 minutes of running is better than no running, and I completely agree. If you can do more, fantastic, but my point is, just do something and don't be hindered by the idea that if you can''t do a full 45-60 minute workout it isn't worth it (which is what used to hang me up).

5. Multitask. Since I've been short on time lately, the best way I have found to fit exercise in is via multitasking. I'll run to the post office and back. I've even run to meetings and back (thankfully, my business partner doesn't mind if I show up sweaty). Just yesterday I broke out the jogging stroller for the first time and took Violet out for a zoom to pick a few things up at Whole Foods. She loved it!

6. Set small, achievable goals. Although I think it's great to put big things (e.g., marathon) on your life list, they can be daunting in the now if you're just trying to get back to things. Set smaller goals, such as "run 15 minutes" or "run a 5K" or "do 5 push-ups." I highly recommend Couch to 5K if you want to experiment with running -- this is the plan that helped convert me from a non-runner to someone who could participate in a 200-mile relay race.

7. Exercise with friends. Meet up with friends for a run, walk, or Zumba class. Sign up for a race together. Other people will help hold you accountable.

8. Put it in your calendar. If you're like me and live and breathe by your to-do lists, put exercise on your to-do list or calendar. I'm getting in the habit of mapping out my fitness plan as I review the week ahead every Sunday.

9. Track data. If tracking data renders a sense of accomplishment and motivates you, sign up with something like Daily Mile. It's basically Facebook for fitness. You'll get reports about mileage covered and can interface with your friends (or complete strangers) and motivate one another.

10. Gear up. One thing that can set you up for failure is not having gear that fits or works. If your yoga gear is ill fitting or threadbare you will not feel comfortable downward dogging. Or if your running shoes are old and worn out, you will hurt more the day following and will not want to run again. Gear up so you can get moving safely and comfortably.

11. Try something new. Getting bored makes it easy to fall off the wagon. I've being doing my running/yoga mix for a long time now and though I'm enjoying it since I'm just getting back into it again, I'm also thinking about investigating something new, like ballet. (Cue image of Olivia the pig envisioning herself on stage.)

I hope these tips are helpful -- if you have others to share, I've love to read them in the comments below!

Image credit: photostock via FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Posted by Christine Koh on 30 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (8) | Filed in Sports & Fitness

I've been immersed in change and exploration ever since career pivoting five years ago, so I'm really looking forward to attending the Mass Conference for Women -- which encourages attendees to live fearlessly and pursue their path. In addition to undoubtedly drawing inspiration from speakers and attendees, next week I'll provide social media consulting sessions for those looking for guidance in developing their brand. My consult sessions apparently are already full (sorry about that -- I should have posted sooner!) but I did want to pass along a discount code in case you want to attend. Use code MAWD29 for a rate of $125 per individual ($30 off) and $1,250 for a table of 10 ($200 off). Hope to see you there!

Posted by Christine Koh on 29 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (3) | Filed in Mama in the Workplace; Web (Admin)

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday long weekend! As I mentioned last week, we're in the midst of a lot of transition in my house right now so I decided to take time off and focus on the family. It was really lovely and I'm looking forward to getting back into the swing of things this week! I hope your re-entry back into the real world is smooth; meanwhile, here are some handy/fun ideas to consider in this week's Weekly Blueprint:

November 28: If you're a classical music lover and can swing a sitter (or mama sitting exchange!) last minute, enjoy tonight's free performance by the Borromeo String Quartet.

November 29 (also December 1 & 7): The Boston JCC is offering programming for interfaith couples and parents to explore how to honor Chanukah and Christmas.

November 30 (through January 1): Take in the pretty at Winter Lights IV in Lowell.

December 1: Celebrate local at Holiday in the Square in Lynn.

December 1-4: Or do the same via the Marblehead Christmas Walk.

December 1: Join the masses for Boston's Official Holiday Lighting.

December 2: Love performance spectacle? The Radio City Chistmas Spectacular kicks off in Boston. (And stay tuned, I'll be giving away tickets to this show soon!)

December 2: Learn how to give baby a rub down at this free infant massage class.

December 2: I love that the Lexington Symphony is offering two Pops shows; a Kids' Pops at 4pm and Holidays Pops at 8pm.

December 2-4: The unique and festive Holly Folly Weekend kicks off in Provincetown.

Now through January 1: This visual celebration of children's literature sounds so lovely.

At your leisure: Put aside some toys to donate to your school or community toy drive.

At your leisure: Check through your kids' outgrown winter gear; donate cold weather items to kids in need.

At your leisure: If you're interested, this is why I've been especially busy the last few months. I'm growing this wonderful company and just redesigned the website. I'm thrilled with how pretty it looks!

At your leisure: I wrote a guest post sharing 8 tips to healthier holidays if you need some ideas.

At your leisure: Schedule coffee or a night out with a girlfriend. (I am long overdue on this and am trying to get something in the books this week.)

At your leisure: Think of how to help out a mom friend with one small act. My act for the week will be delivering dinner to my friend who just had a baby.

At your leisure: Do something kind for yourself. Personally, I'm thinking it's time to book body work with Heather.

Image credit: Borromeo String Quartet via NEC

Posted by Christine Koh on 28 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Fun Indoors; Fun Outdoors; Local

Though I do enjoy shopping, I've admittedly been turning a blind eye to the onslaught of big box Black Friday pitches I've been receiving -- partially because this marketing approach seems awfully tiresome, and partially because I'm a big fan of supporting local indie businesses. As in past years, we plan on adhering to a pretty minimal approach to holiday shopping, but when I do get around to it, I'll start by turning to what's immediately around us. I wanted to share some great ways to shop local -- there's so much talent that warrants your attention!

1. MassArt Made recently opened at Huntington and Longwood. This store features handmade products by MassArt alums, students, faculty, and staff. I haven't had a chance to stop by yet but I hope to soon -- I adore the concept!

2. I have featured Boston Handmade before; this juried group of professional local artists and craftspeople are prominent on the local craft fair circuit. Check their calendar for updates; they are participating in Holly Days in Princeton, the Mudflat Holiday Sale, the Jamaica Plain Holiday Fair, and the Bazaar Bizarre, among other events.

3. I started the Boston Mamas mamapreneur business network as a way to feature listings for local, mom-driven talent. If you need a professional photographer, look no further! There are also lots of great listings for products, indoor activities, and more.

4. Whenever someone asks me about Etsy, I describe it as a beautiful, beautiful rabbit hole. Simply set your location, search for the item you are looking for (otherwise, general browsing could send you down the rabbit hole for hours!), then click on "Local Items" in the left sidebar to shop local artists. Totally awesome.

5. And of course, look around your neighborhood! I'm particularly keen on supporting local brick and mortars because I admire their bravery in taking the plunge in paying rent (one day I dream of being similarly brave and renting studio space). In past years, it's been fun to take Laurel to local stores so she can help pick presents for her grandparents. (I recommend telling the child what the spending limit is in advance!)

Finally, through Weekly Blueprint and my Fun Weekend Picks, I will do my best to call attention to upcoming local craft shows as I hear about them. Please always feel free to comment in if I'm missing something, or drop me a line to let me know about an upcoming event!

Image credit: delicious looking natural soaps by S.S. Soap in Boston via Etsy

Posted by Christine Koh on 22 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Local; Retail

It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving is this week. I'm both looking forward to the connection and reflection that happens around this time of year, and admittedly am also a little overwhelmed by the details of life right this second, given that there's a lot of transition going on in our household (plus, poor Violet is suffering from a bizarre full body rash right now). Anyway, I hope you all enjoy lots of relaxing time this week; here are some handy/fun ideas to consider in this week's Weekly Blueprint:

November 21: Start the week out getting up close and personal with cows.

November 21-22: Get what you need at the grocery store before the pre-Thanksgiving freak out on Wednesday.

November 21-22: As you go through your pantry checking off supplies for Thanksgiving, pull out extras and donate to a food bank.

November 21-22: If you're traveling: squirrel away some travel surprises via books from the library, "what's old is new" toys from your own playroom/storage, toys swapped with friends, or items procured from a local toy or craft store.

November 22: If you're traveling: start setting aside a packing pile, or keep a piece of pen and paper handy to jot down items as you remember them. I pretty much always walk around with a piece of paper in my pocket to jot down to-do's since I can't seem to remember anything these days!

November 22: Plan your holiday tabletop; procure any last minute supplies.

November 23 (through December 10): Celebrate the festival of trees in Wellesley.

November 23: Need to occupy your kids while you prep pies? Have them help make place settings or other Thanksgiving inspired décor (think turkeys made from toilet paper rolls!). Or print up and have the kids color some of these free Thanksgiving coloring pages.

November 24: Reflect and be grateful.

November 24 (through January 1, 2012): Enjoy the kick off of ZooLights at the Stone Zoo.

November 25: Go for a run, brisk walk, or hike through the woods with your family.

November 25: The Nutcracker kicks off in Boston! (You can get half price tickets here.)

November 25 & 26: Celebrate native arts and culture in Cambridge.

November 26: Check out the Macy's Christmas Tree Lighting. **see comment from Sara below re: timing

Some time this week: Destress via acupuncture. My friend Roxanna swears by this place.

At your leisure: Tackle a small decluttering project. (I'm thinking about doing a year-long weekly decluttering project!)

Image credit: Appleton Farms

Posted by Christine Koh on 21 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (4) | Filed in Fun Indoors; Fun Outdoors; Local

Today, Kate shares a great find for relocating your outgrown kid's clothing and gear:

If you're like me, you occasionally find yourself looking for good ways to pass along the clothes, toys, and gear that your kids have outgrown. Due to generous grandmothers, my daughter's dresser is often overflowing, and I search out ways to share the bounty. Two Little Monkeys, a new children's resale shop in the Union Square neighborhood of Somerville, is a great resource for anyone looking to either unload or pick up clothing, books, toys, and gear (including high-end strollers at terrific prices) for babies and children.

The owner of the store, a mother herself, offers either cash or store credit for items brought in, and purchases based on her existing inventory and the needs and tastes of her customers. All seasons are bought and sold, as are both genders and all sizes through 5T (the owner is looking to expand into larger sizes). The store is roomy and comfortable -- unlike some resale shops, which can feel musty and cramped -- and I noticed MacLaren strollers and a Stokke crib on a recent visit, as well as clothes and shoes in good condition and holiday and seasonal items. Whether you're buying or selling, definitely check out Two Little Monkeys.

Two Little Monkeys, 77 Bow Street, Somerville; 617-222-0043

Posted by Christine Koh on 20 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Eco Living; Local; Retail

Ah, weekend, I'm so excited for you! Here are 10 fun picks for your consideration:

1. Grown up event alert: dust off your dancing shoes for this dance off. (Boston)

2. Explore how people used to measure the world pre-technology. (Cambridge)

3. Yay for more than 135 crafty exhibitors to peruse. (Wellesley)

4. Rock out with Ben Rudnick & Friends. (Brookline)

5. Get in the holiday spirit at this tree lighting. (Boston)

6. Talk turkey and make an eco-friendly Thanksgiving centerpiece. (Westport)

7. Meet some critters up close and personal. (Boston)

8. Cheer kids on (and, if you're like me, get a little nostalgic) while they rock the Rubik's Cube. (Boston)

9. Give props to this local mother/daughter book team. (Newburyport)

10. Enjoy a family-friendly musical brunch for brass instrument lovers. (Boston)

Image credit: Salvatore Vuono / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Posted by Christine Koh on 18 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Fun Indoors; Fun Outdoors; Local

Today, Lindsey shares a local self-care gem (that is making my feet twitch in happy anticipation):

I am a runner with ache-y Achilles tendons and a (probably related) on-and-off case of plantar fasciitis. I have wanted to try reflexology for a long time: partially I am drawn to the concept of spots on the feet correlating with imbalances in the body, but mostly I love having my feet rubbed.

The other morning I approached Barefoot Reflexology in Watertown with both anticipation and slight nervousness. Despite a cheerful purple sign, the storefront is shrouded with curtains and you can't see in. Taking a deep breath, I swung open the door and was pleasantly surprised by what I saw. Let's just say the insides don't really match the outsides.

Barefoot Reflexology is bright and clean, and the staff is friendly. Within two minutes of walking in I was seated in a dim room with dividers between clients. My technician (Mary) immersed my feet in warm water that had rose petals floating in it. The fact that the water was in a plastic-bag lined plastic bucket was slightly odd, but I told myself it was probably to keep everything sanitary and I quickly stopped thinking about it at all. During the foot soak, Mary massaged my shoulders, neck, and arms. I was already sliding into a happy state of vague oblivion.

Next, Mary dried my feet and indicated that I should sit back on the recliner. The chair was padded, covered in clean white towels, and about the most comfortable chair I've ever sat in. For the next 45 minutes Mary massaged my feet, sometimes applying specific pressure to points on my feet but also just giving me an incredibly relaxing foot massage. She used unscented lotion and did not speak. The massage, the quiet music, the dim lighting, and the bed-like chair all combined so that within minutes I was drifting in and out of awareness.

The hour flew by. By the time Mary wrapped my feet in warm towels and patted my shoulder to tell me we were done, I was blissfully zoned out. I padded out of the treatment room, paid the exceptionally reasonable price ($35 for one hour), and floated home to my children, a far more relaxed and reasonable mom than I'd been before. I heartily recommend Barefoot Reflexology for anyone looking to relax and enjoy an hour focused entirely on you.

Image credit: healingdream / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Posted by Christine Koh on 17 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Beauty, Fitness & Wellness; Local

Today, Carole Arsenault of Boston Baby Nurses shares baby first teeth basics:

When can you expect your baby's first teeth? Most babies get their first teeth between the ages of three and seven months old, although it is possible to get them earlier or even later than seven months. Teeth actually start to develop before birth as tooth buds form in the gums, but your baby's teeth will start to break through one at a time throughout the first two years, typically in this order: bottom two middle, top two middle, side, and then back teeth. The last teeth to appear will be your baby's molars, which come in around two years old. By three your baby will have a full set of 20 baby teeth.

The symptoms that suggest your baby is cutting a tooth may include drooling, gum sensitivity, fussiness, and possible waking at night. Although it was once thought that babies who were teething could develop a fever or diarrhea as a direct result, this is no longer thought to be the case. Based on a recent study of 47 babies, there's no link between these types of serious symptoms around the time of a tooth eruption. As a result of the findings, researchers stress the importance of contacting a pediatrician if your baby experiences a fever or diarrhea, regardless of whether he is teething or not.

Unfortunately, teething can be uncomfortable for your baby, but a few of the following relief options may help ease the pain:

Teething rings. Purchase a few safe, non-toxic, and chemical-free teethers for your baby to put in her mouth. Two great options are the Haba Kringelring Wooden Teether or Natursutten Teether.

Frozen washcloth. Freeze a wet washcloth and let your baby chew on it. The cold will feel good on irritated gums.

Cold foods. If your baby is already eating solids, feed him/her cold foods such as frozen yogurt or frozen fruit bars. (Cut into small bits depending on where your baby is at in the solid food exposure process.)

Pressure. Rub your baby's gum firmly with a clean finger for about five minutes -- the pressure will relieve some of the discomfort.

Infant pain relievers. Consult your pediatrician if your child is experiencing excessive discomfort. He or she may prescribe an infant pain reliever such as acetaminophen.

Good dental health matters right from the very start and cleaning your baby's teeth is simple. Just wipe the teeth with a damp washcloth once a day. It is fine to use a soft bristled baby toothbrush if you prefer but do not use toothpaste for the first year. After that you may begin to use training toothpaste appropriate for your child's age. Check with your pediatrician about when to make your baby's first dentist appointment -- most recommend one around age three but may suggest even sooner.

Image credit: photostock / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Posted by Christine Koh on 16 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Bath, Beauty & Health; Gear

While I was en route to California this past weekend, I was so happy to have some quiet time to read through more of the Boston Mamas survey comments. Among the responses was a question that fit well both for the Dear Boston Mamas column, and given that I just guest posted at Rookie Moms about what I have learned in having a second child. Of course, a lot of the below would apply to 2+ children as well; if you have additional thoughts to share, feel free to do so in the comments!

Question: How is life with two kids? We are expecting #2 and I know it will be different but how? How are you managing? Is baby #2 on a schedule or on older child's schedule?

Dear Lovely Reader:

Obviously, not every day of parenting is easy, but in general, I will say that I have been amazed by how wonderful life with two kids is. After several years of struggling with infertility, I finally made my peace with being a family of three. After which point of course I got pregnant. But from the very beginning Violet has felt as if she belongs with us. We feel so blessed.

It also has been excellent to experience parenting through a new lens; specifically, that of a laid back, experienced parent. I know it's not the same for everyone, but I have heard many people comment that subsequent kids are more laid back because their parents are more laid back, and this certainly has been the case for us.

Now, to address your questions about logistics: adding a new person to a family does, of course, involve adjustment. Here is how our transition has shaken out:

Hello everyone -- apologies for the radio silence! I considered posting from the road but decided to be present and immerse myself in Camp Mighty. It was a wonderful trip, not only for personal/professional reflection and connection, but also to witness and be a part of awesome change. Thanks to the fundraising efforts by Camp Mighty attendees, plus a donation from the Ace Hotel (amazing, btw, if you find yourself in Palm Springs), we raised $25,000 for charity: water, which translates to clean water for 1,250 people. AMAZING. I'm now in recovery mode with work and home matters, but meanwhile, here are some fun ideas to consider in this week's Weekly Blueprint:

November 16: I'm fairly certain these gingerbread men will be caught and eaten.

November 18: Lace up. Skating opens at Frog Pond.

November 18: Lace up again. Winter skating opens at Patriot Place.

At your leisure: Start chipping away at homemade holiday gifts. My friend Gabrielle has a lovely sibling gift tradition with lots of project ideas -- these could be used for any family members.

At your leisure: Paint some pottery. Related to above, Laurel loves painting pottery for holiday gifts. The functional items such as coffee mugs and plates are always a huge hit!

At your leisure: I love Thanksgiving. Check out last year's episode of Life.Style (or simply the associated link wrap) for decor, recipe, and travel toy ideas.

At your leisure: Make a big batch of magic salt -- perfect for all of the cooking coming up this holiday season and great for giving as gifts. We've gifted this salt to family and friends who say that it's now the only salt they use!

At your leisure: Try a new recipe. I made Santa Rosa Valley Salad last night (super, super yum), and plan on making one or both of these spinach dishes this week.

Image credit: felt ice skate ornaments by recycledparts via Etsy

Posted by Christine Koh on 14 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (2) | Filed in Arts & Crafts; Fun Outdoors; Home; Local; Recipes

Pursuant to yesterday's yummy food post, I wanted to share two tasty spinach-happy dishes my co-host Heather brought to our friend Nicola's baby shower. Not only were these dishes fantastically yummy (seriously, the guests could not stop raving), but given that my roughage consumption tends to plummet with the cold weather (and close of CSA season), I love how excited these dishes got me about eating leafy greens. Enjoy!

Heather's Spinach Salad

Salad:

This past weekend I co-hosted a secondhand baby shower for my friend Nicola (when I offered to host a shower, Nicola asked me to repeat the eco-theme) along with my two friends Heather and Heather. Both Heathers brought awesome dishes that I wanted to share (the guests could not stop raving about the food!). I'll share one recipe below and two (related) others in a separate post. I ate many servings of these dishes and wasn't shy about asking if I could hang onto some leftovers. Enjoy!

Santa Rosa Valley Salad
(Serves 6; Heather doubled the recipe for the shower)

SALAD:

Greetings all! I hope you're all adjusting to the time change. Did anyone else's kids fight bedtime yesterday, despite the "You know, it's actually an hour later than now" argument? And did anyone else not get their extra hour of sleep (my kids still woke up super early)? Anyway, how about a fresh start? Here are some fun ideas for your consideration in this week's Weekly Blueprint:

November 7: If you are suffering from sleep deprivation related to the time change (or hey, just sleep deprivation in general), treat yourself to a really delicious coffee.

November 8: Vote in your municipal election.

November 8: Talk turkeys with your toddler at the Mass Audubon's South Shore Sanctuaries.

November 10: Celebrate locally made goods at AHA! Night in New Bedford.

November 11: A super fun pick for ballet lovers: The Nutcracker Boston Ballet Day at the Boston Children's Museum.

November 11: Pay tribute. My peep Stacey at Boston Central has several Veteran's Day listings on the docket for Friday.

At your leisure: Set aside a bag and start filling it with items for local food drives.

At your leisure: Make this pumpkin cake with cream cheese frosting. YUM.

At your leisure: Schedule a date night.

At your leisure: Pick up a new book. This community-driven collection of recommendations offers more than enough fodder to get you started.

At your leisure: My upcoming trip to Camp Mighty served as the impetus to update my life list. Consider starting/editing yours as you look forward into the turn of the year.

At your leisure: Find creative inspiration. I recently joined Pinterest and I must say that I love it as a means of archiving awesome ideas and creative inspiration.

Image credit: Unicorn pops pinned via Etsy

Posted by Christine Koh on 7 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Fun Indoors; Fun Outdoors; Home; Local

I'm so grateful to everyone who bought raffle tickets for Asha and my Camp Mighty raffle to benefit charity: water, or made direct donations on our behalf. As of this evening, we exceeded our $400 goal and raised $625. I'm going to have Asha draw the winner and I will update this post once I know who gets the tote! Meanwhile, if you didn't have a chance to participate yet, you're welcome to donate to our team here. We're closing in on our team goal of $5,000 and it's pretty awesome that as it currently stands, the $3,625 raised will provide 181 people with clean water. Thanks again everyone!

Posted by Christine Koh on 6 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (1) | Filed in Web (Admin)

Happy first weekend of November! I hope you've all been rocking this new month. Here are some fun picks for the weekend:

1. Day of the Dead, family style -- including sugar skulls! (Cambridge)

2. A morning chat about color and design? Yes, please. (Bedford)

3. I love that proceeds from this gingerbread house competition will benefit homeless families. (Boston)

4. How cultured! A cinematic kaleidoscope of cats, characters, and circus dreams. (Belmont)

5. Cultural performances and activities abound at World's Fair weekend. (Concord)

6. Rock out with Alastair Moock at the Regent Theatre. (Arlington)

7. It's the perfect time to collect nature treasures. (Mattapan)

8. Help your kids learn how their bodies tick. (Boston)

9. A sweet deal for Bank of American cardholders: as part of Museums on Us, show your BoA card for free weekend admission at the Museum of Fine Arts (Boston), Harvard Museum of Natural History (Cambridge), deCordova Sculpture Park & Museum (Lincoln), Worcester Art Museum (Worcester), Cape Cod Museum of Art (Dennis), and Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (North Adams).

And don't forget to fall back and reset your clocks Sunday!

Posted by Christine Koh on 4 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Fun Indoors; Fun Outdoors; Local

I'm trying to get back into the habit of reading before bedtime, as both a means to transport and unwind. I so enjoyed Katherine Center's book recommendations earlier this year so I decided to query on my social channels for literary inspiration. The responses were so fantastic that I wanted to post the recommendations here, both to share the wealth and archive for myself. I left the responses intact instead of simply listing the books because the comments definitely are helping guide my choosing. Print this list out for your library/used book tote or go crazy at your local bookstore or on Amazon (note: I included affiliate links below). Thanks to everyone who commented in, and enjoy! And if you have other books to recommend, feel welcome to add them to the comments.

Via Twitter:

Sometimes kids come up with the most brilliant ideas. I wanted to make pumpkin bread the other week (our oven finally got fixed so I've been on a bit of a baking bender) and Laurel suggested that we make a cream cheese frosting and call it cake. Brilliant. I doubled/adjusted slightly this pumpkin bread recipe from Michelle and added frosting (via a recipe in Baking Illustrated (really, anyone who likes to bake ought to own this tome). It was a huge hit. Here's the how-to:

Pumpkin Cake
(Michelle's recipe doubled, with some adjustments, as annotated below)

Ingredients

Just yesterday I suggested rotating your kids' wardrobes. Today, Jennifer offers inspiration to rotate yours as well:

If you're like me, you are just now swapping out the summer clothes for fall, and my fall stuff definitely needed a few fun updates. When Nordstrom Rack opened recently in Burlington (dangerously close to my 'hood; there also are locations in Danvers and Framingham), I was intrigued. I should say that prior to my recent trip, I had never been to a Nordstrom Rack and I rarely go to Nordstrom's or the mall, because I'm a frugal shopper and tend to camp out at T.J. Maxx and Marshalls. I like to say it's because I am committed to supporting local businesses (their HQ is in Framingham) but it's also because they are just. simply. awesome. stores. I can maximize 10 minutes wedged between a meeting and school pick-up and come out with a great Calvin Klein dress for $49.

But back to Nordstrom's. Here's my take on it -- it's a broader selection of prices than I would normally go for. I just won't pay over $100 for jeans (I think I can trace this back to the 6th grade when my pre-puberty husky-ish physique would not support the holy grail of expensive denim, Jordache). But at Nordstrom Rack I quickly found some good racks of $50'ish and under jeans and cords, some super flirty fun tops for $30'ish, and a small but decent dress section. And some good workout wear too. The shoe department was oh so delectable. No super savings, but a great value for some seriously fabulous shoes.

In my opinion, the accessories section was just so-so...a bit too trendy for me, but the sunglasses "wall" was quite inviting. Rows and rows of sunglasses, and they even offer tips to help you find the right shape for your face. That's a step above and beyond the usual department store.

I found the checkout staff highly efficient and the layout was open and airy...easy to spot stuff across the whole store. I did spot a kid's section, but when I head to Nordstrom's, it's frankly all about me, so I don't have input on the kiddo side of the store!

Overall Nordstrom Rack will serve as a good compliment to my shopping circuit (this particular trip yielded me awesome wine-colored cords for $29). And FYI, if you're up in the Burlington area and have time, you could spend a solid day shopping if you count the Burlington Mall (I do dig Anthropologie and the Lands' End Canvas stuff at Sears -- think frugal J. Crew) and there's also nearby Wayside Commons (helloooo Ann Taylor Loft).

Happy shopping!

Editor's Note: You can also shop the Rack online. While prepping this post, I purchased this red dress (possibility for my sister's wedding in December) and I'm regretting that I didn't add the adorable crusher hat (pictured above) to my order.

Posted by Christine Koh on 1 Nov 2011 | Permalink | Comments (0) | Filed in Fashion; For Mamas & Mamas-to-be