Mama Manifesto

2011-12-12T22:08:00.000-08:00

We have another video tutorial for you today from Meleesa, our resident beauty expert. She is not just our resident expert here at Mama Manifesto, but she is also the local expert at her beauty salon in Huntington Beach, CA.

This video tutorial arrives with perfect timing for the Holiday season. She takes us step by step through how to get that beautiful, sassy, soft-tousled look for all the parties and holiday events on your calendar from now through New Year's Eve.

Go ahead and take your phone or computer in the bathroom with you so you can follow along. Your husband will only mock you until he sees how gorgeous you look - then, he will be speechless!

Products used in the video:

Bumble and Bumble Thickening Spray

Ginalli curling wand

Continue to submit your questions for Meleesa here at Mama Manifesto (leave a comment), or by emailing askmeleesa@meleesathesalon.com

Happy Holidays, mamas!

Easy Homemade Cranberry Sauce

2011-11-22T10:14:00.001-08:00

When I was growing up, Thanksgiving was a mostly elegant occasion. My grandmother would spend two manic days preparing the turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, cornbread dressing, pumpkin pie and more, and proudly serve it to a pack of unruly grandkids on her finest china.

Of course, no Thanksgiving spread would be complete without the cranberry sauce, and so it appeared on Grandmother's table every year, a little crimson cylinder shaped like a tin can dumped onto a small silver tray. I have no memory of ever eating a bite from the cranberry can, nor do I recall ever seeing anybody else eat it. Maybe Grandmother thought of the cranberry can as a decoration, but it never seemed like it quite belonged alongside the other freshly-prepared offerings.

Years later, when I assumed the role of Thanksgiving hostess, I used to skip the cranberry sauce altogether because I didn't see the point of opening a can only to throw the sauce away two hours later-- until a friend showed me how easy it is to make your own cranberry sauce from scratch. My Thanksgiving table has never been the same.

Now I know that a lot of folks are loyal to classic cranberry sauce from a can, and if that's your position, I say rock on! But if you're looking to try a fresh and ridiculously easy recipe that will amaze your holiday guests, this is it. Homemade cranberry sauce takes about 15 minutes to prepare, but you need to make it the day before so that it has time to chill. This is also a great recipe to get kids cooking; my daughter made a batch last night for her classroom's Thanksgiving feast. This recipe comes from the second edition of The Joy of Cooking.

Ingredients

1 pound fresh cranberries, rinsed
2 cups sugar (yes, it's a lot of sugar, but keep in mind, cranberries are tart)
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup orange juice
2 teaspoons grated orange zest ( but you can skip this if you want)

Cook, uncovered, over medium heat until most of the cranberries pop open and the mixture has thickened slightly, about 7 to 10 minutes. Cool and refrigerate over night.

The berries require little attention while they're cooking, just a stir now and then, but if you have a child old enough to work at the stove, like my daughter, you can let her have the fun of stirring as much as she wants -- it won't hurt the sauce a bit. Enjoy!

“E” for Everyone – @OKtoPlay

2011-11-07T13:46:00.000-08:00

We are a family of four and home to an Xbox 360, Microsoft Kinect, Wii, Nintendo DS, Nintedo DSi XL, and of course, two smart phones. There are currently 22 apps on my phone – 10 of which are games (9 the kids chose).

At 10 and 6, my kids love to play video games. And, for the most part, it’s a non-issue in our house. They are busy with school and activities, which means little time for games during the week. However, if they want to play for a couple hours with their friends on the weekend, I’m totally okay with that. It’s all about choices and balance.

For all my coolness, I do get a bit twitchy this time of year. With the holidays around the corner, I can see the avalanche of stuff coming our way – expensive gadgets and games that are often given before the kids are old enough to enjoy them, and even worse, riddled with unexpected questionable content.

In my haste last December, I suggested the game Dance Central to accompany our new Kinect. Great game, indeed. It gets your heart moving and my kids love seeing their dance moves replayed on the screen during the “free dance” sequence. Plus, you can compete with one another. It’s pure fun.

But, there’s still that twinge of “oh no – what will we see next” when we play. The virtual dancers are clad in gangster wear (guys) or short-shorts (girls). Plus, there’s a few moves that let’s say, should be saved for the college party scene. If only I had taken 5 minutes to check the game rating, I would have seen that it had earned a “T” for “Teen” before suggesting it as a family gift.
Ah-hem.

ESRB (Entertainment Software Ratings Board) is a non-profit, self-regulatory body that rates video games based on age, as well as provides content descriptors to indicate what triggered the rating (e.g., suggestive content, language, violence). ESRB's mobile app (free) is a gem. Instead of standing there gape-mouthed and paralyzed, trying to assess the "appropriateness" of a game, I can instantly "call up" the ESRB app for a rating and content summary. Voila! ESRB takes the surprise factor out of an expensive purchase.

Additionally, ESRB is an invaluable resource for protecting my kids online. The website includes step-by-step instructions for how to set parental controls on all the major gaming consoles, plus handhelds. ESRB is also actively involved in COPPA (Children’s Online Privacy and Protection Act) – key legislation that dictates the rules relating to kids and the Internet.

The ESRB app is an invaluable addition to my mobile toolkit. No doubt – I’ll be one of “those moms” at the holiday parties, whipping out my iPhone to demo the ESRB app. I’ll call it “Guess the Rating” and it will be a hit among the mothers of suburbia.

(Note: Michele recently helped to coordinate blogger outreach with Patricia Vance, president of ESRB, on behalf of Zebra Partners. The above post reflects her uncensored and passionate views of ESRB’s mission to educate & empower parents.)

Hair Color & Styling Tutorial

2011-11-03T04:00:00.000-07:00

Today we get to share the first of our video tutorials from Meleesa.

We have the video broken into 2 parts due to its size. The first video focuses on color tips and suggestions with regard to coloring your hair. Melessa specializes in a color technique called "Bayalage", which ends up looking like very natural and sun-kissed highlights.

Towards the end of the first video, and in the second video, Meleesa gives a step-by-step tutorial on blowing your hair out. This tutorial was at my request, because as I shared with you all yesterday, I truly need to watch a step by step tutorial as I blow dry my hair.

I must preface these videos by saying that I was not drunk or in pain during the filming of these videos, although it does look like I am. Meleesa, on the other hand, is all gorgeous and stylish and cute in her Costa Rican way.

Please share your questions for Meleesa in the comments on this post.

An Introduction to Meleesa

2011-11-01T21:12:00.000-07:00

I am beyond excited to introduce a new contributor to Mama Manifesto. I met Meleesa the day I walked into her beauty salon in Huntington Beach to get my hair cut. I quickly learned that Meleesa is far more than a hair stylist and is more like a hair advocate (and just generally an amazingly beautiful and generous person). She is really good at what she does, and takes the time to interview each client about their hair before she begins to style it. In our interview time we quickly connected and saw that we had an opportunity to partner.

Here is where I have to explain something - I am the most challenged gal I know when it comes to hair and make up. For reals. I have never in my life really been able to blow dry my own hair well. I feel like my arms get tangled up and I just simply do not know what I am doing. So, what do I do? Well, I kind of don't do anything. I tend to wear my hair in a lot of ponytails. I tend to be frustrated by it all the time. My hair feels like it has a mind of its own - it's not quite sure if it is curly or straight and the frizz factor makes me crazy. Good hair days for me are few and far between and I never know how to communicate what I want in a hair style to a stylist.

One of the things I have learned in the past few years of having a blog is that if I am feeling something, it is pretty safe to assume that there are many other women out there who feel the same way.

This was our "aha" moment! After Meleesa spent time talking through my questions and teaching me how to do my hair, I told Meleesa that I wished I could help other women out there get their beauty and hair questions answered. I don't think you should only get to have good hair days when you can afford to get blow outs once a week, or when you are one of those gals who just knows how to do her own hair. (You are the ones who make it look so easy!) I think that we should all be able to ask questions and learn how to deal with the pet peeves that drive us crazy. The Lord knows I have a list a mile long.

So, here is the deal, mamas - Meleesa is now YOUR hair and beauty advocate! You can ask away with your questions. Have a favorite style you found on pinterest that you don't know how to implement? Ask Meleesa! Have a question about color? Ask Meleesa! Want to know what cut would suit your face? Ask Meleesa! No question is too silly to ask because if she doesn't know the answer, she can lean into her amazing community of stylists to try and find it.

We are going to be tackling questions on a weekly basis (hair, makeup, beauty product, etc.), and we are also going to share a tutorial video once a month that will hopefully give a truly visual education. Meleesa also pursues healthier, greener beauty products so she will be sharing her recommendations here as well.

Please do share your questions here in the comments, or send your questions via email to askmeleesa@meleesathesalon.com.

This obviously goes without saying, but, if you live in the Southern California area and you do not absolutely LOVE your hair stylist, you have got to give this gal a call. Her salon feels like an anthropologie styled living room and you will feel so cared for by her incredible staff. She has a spa upstairs too. Her beauty salon is located in down town Huntington Beach, and you will love her!

We (and by "we", I totally mean her, so don't worry!) are looking forward to tackling those questions so start thinking and asking.

Tune in on Thursday for our first video tutorial!

Here's a little more information about Meleesa ...

Halloween Math

2011-10-30T23:02:00.001-07:00

I stumbled on this fabulous creation today on pinterest and had to share it with you all.

Over at Lasso the Moon, you can print your own "Track Your Loot" sheet so that you can do some post trick-or-treating math.

Here is what Zina wrote:

Trick-or-treating doesn’t have to be all about eating candy for dinner. It is also a fun opportunity to practice math skills. This year we’ll be sorting and charting some of the top brand candy bars. We’ll play simple adding and subtraction games, like “If Mom eats three of your twelve Kitty Kat bars how many will you have left?”

If you have an older child you can ask more advanced math questions like, “What percentage of your loot has chocolate in it?” Halloween is a great chance to make playing with numbers fun. Don’t miss the opportunity.

Going Green for Halloween

2011-10-18T07:00:00.000-07:00

Through the magic of Twitter, I recently learned about Green Halloween, a non-profit, grassroots initiative striving to create healthier, eco-friendlier holidays-- starting with Halloween. Launched in Seattle in 2007 by a mother of two, the nationwide movement, now a program of EcoMom Alliance, is all about educating and inspiring communities by showing how easy, affordable, and fun it can be to factor the earth and our health into our daily choices.

The Green Halloween website is full of information and tips. Here's their list of ten simple steps to make Halloween more people-healthy, animal-friendly and earth-conscious.

1. Choose no-waste pumpkins. Instead of purchasing one big pumpkin, select several smaller ones, then, instead of carving, paint on faces with non-toxic paints or decorate with yarn, ribbon, bottle caps and other found items. Smaller pumpkins can be put in the fridge when not on display to keep them fresher and once Halloween is over, you should be able to cook 'em up instead of tossing.

2. Use beeswax candles. If you do carve and put a candle in your pumpkin, choose 100% beeswax. Most candles are made from paraffin, a petroleum by-product. Beeswax burns cleanly, lasts longer and releases a wonderful, all natural aroma.

3. Use LED lights. By now everyone knows that incandescent lights don't last very long, cost pretty pennies to use and burn HOT. LEDs now come in every size from mini-flashlight to outdoor spotlight. They are the safer, more sustainable option.

4. Seek out alternatives to conventional candy.

5. Set up or participate in a costume swap. According to Robert Lilienfeld of the Use Less Stuff Report, roughly 25 million children in the United States celebrate Halloween. Swapping just half of those costumes would reduce annual landfill waste by 6,250 tons.

6. Make decorations instead of buying. In 2009, Halloween spending totaled $4.75 billion. This figure includes décor, candy, costumes and other items. Since Halloween is the second biggest holiday after Christmas for décor, a huge chunk of change goes toward glowing lawn art, orange and black table decorations and millions of sets of Halloween-themed light strings. If you're aiming for a Green Halloween, try cutting your décor budget by 25%. Then fill in the difference with handmade items.

7. Hand out less. Everyone acknowledges we have a childhood obesity problem in this country. Nonetheless, people say, "Why not give out bunches of candy? It‘s only once a year." The fact is that kids are exposed to candy and other sweets daily. Sugar is in everything from cereal to the lollipop they get at the bank. Halloween can be just as much fun even if a child brings home significantly less than the average of 10 pounds of candy.

8. Walk in your neighborhood, don't drive.

9. Bag it, green style. Instead of buying a single-use, disposable candy-carrier, make your child's goodie bag. Use a pillow case or something you already own that goes with the theme of the costume. A purse for a princess? A backpack for a mountain climber? A helmet for a football player?

10. "Recycle" candy & natural décor. Food rotting in landfills leads to the release of methane gas, which contributes to climate change. So don‘t toss leftover candy and rotting pumpkins -- recycle them! Composting turns food waste and natural décor (such as hay from your scarecrow) into nutrient-rich food for your plants, shrubs and trees.

My 10 year old "adult"

2011-10-17T10:46:00.000-07:00

To say that I was distracted is an understatement. Captain Hook was circling, which was causing my otherwise fearless 6 year old to have a panic attack. She had a death grip on my middle, while my son was jumping up and down in excitement (pointing and all) because, well, Captain Hook was circling.

The swarthy pirate had his eye on us and was moving in to sign the kids’ autograph books and pose for photos. I was trying to quickly pay the breakfast bill while simultaneously grabbing for my camera and calming my daughter. For all I knew, breakfast could have been $100. And, it was – almost.

It turns out that per Disney, my 10 year old son is now an adult. That means $25 for the Disney’s Character Breakfast, thank you, ma’am. Seriously? He still sleeps in Buzz Lightyear jammies and can’t wait for Santa to shimmy down the chimney. He didn’t even get to be a teen yet – let alone the illustrious tween.

The whole “your 10 year old son is considered an adult” caught us completely off guard and for the most part, we thought it was equal parts ridiculous and funny. We teased him that he might want to start shaving and chided him about his life’s plan. As we sat there enjoying Chip and Dale, Minnie and Tigger, it was as if time stood still. I would have paid Disneyland another $100 to take it all back and declare my kid – “a kid!”

I couldn’t help but stare at my son clutching his autograph book and laughing at the character antics unfolding in front of us. When I looked back at my husband, he was starring at me. His caring, smiling eyes showed me he knew exactly how I felt. If I hadn’t been in the happiest place on earth, I might have actually cried.

As we said our last goodbyes to the characters and readied for a day of rides, my son quietly said, “I don’t want to be an adult.” That makes two of us, kid!

Keeping Halloween Happy

2011-10-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

Last October, I posted here about an important issue related to Halloween: The Bitter Truth About Chocolate. Many people don't realize that most of the world's cocoa is harvested by West African children who are either working with their parents in the fields, or are victims child trafficking who've been wrenched away from their families and communities and forced into servitude. All the big candy companies, including Hershey's and Nestle, rely on slave and child labor to produce cocoa for their Kisses and Crunch Bars. As fellow mama Kristen recently pointed out in a post at Rage Against the Minivan, this truth about chocolate pretty much ruins Halloween.

Thankfully, though, there are some things that parents can do to keep Halloween happy:

Buy Fair Trade certified chocolate. Products certified Fair Trade have met strict criteria for ethical labor practices as well as other environmental, social and economic measures. The website Stop Chocolate Slavery has a list of recommended brands here.

Buy organic chocolate. Certified organic chocolate is usually "slave free," since the certification process includes a review of the producer's labor practices.

Buy healthy snacks or small toys to hand out to trick-or-treaters instead of chocolate from one of the big conglomerates. The website Green Halloween has an extensive list of ideas for green and healthy Halloween giveaways.

Check back next week for more Green Halloween tips and ideas.

When the Coach Talks Sh*$

2011-10-12T11:29:00.000-07:00

My three kids were hanging out in 8-year-old Lemlem's room the other night, blasting music. Lemlem and big sister Didi, age 10, were having a hip hop dance off, with 9-year-old Gobez as judge.

"Okay, here's how I'm going to score," I overheard him tell the girls. "Ten is brilliant, and one is sh*$."

Needless to say, I immediately busted that party.

When I questioned Gobez about his inappropriate language, here's what I learned: Coach D from his soccer team recently ran a practice drill using the same Brilliant/Sh*$ scoring system.

"Are you kidding me?" I screeched.

If Coach D had been standing in my living room at that moment, I would've kicked his a$$ -- especially since my son actually learned the idiom of "a$$ kicking" from this same guy last spring. I'd erupted over that incident too, but since I tend to be a hothead (some might say b*#@h), my husband offered to talk to the coach about his language in a calm, man-to-man way. Needless to say, that reasoned and respectful man chat never happened. Now, after a second incident of inappropriate language, it was clear that if somebody was going to confront D about his sh*$, it would have to be me.

I got right to work rehearsing an indignant speech in my head -- but thank goodness I'm too disorganized to keep the coach's phone number handy. I needed a few days to cool down, because, let's be honest, "bad" language is subjective. What counts as offensive varies from culture to culture, family to family, person to person. Context matters, and in this situation, I had a lot of competing elements to consider:

Coach D is British, so maybe there's a cultural component involved.
Soccer field mores differ from schoolroom mores.
On the other hand, the coach is dealing with 8 and 9-year-old kids.
I'm uneasy about "boys-will-be-boys" vibe. My daughters also play competitive soccer, and their European-born coach manages to teach without cursing.
My son and his teammates love Coach D. His language may be salty on occasion, but he's never said anything that left Gobez feeling hurt or discouraged.
Then again, these are 8 and 9-year-old kids!!

And so the debate went, round and round inside my head, finally swirling to a stop at the most embarrassing and essential element of the whole dilemma:

I've got a mouth like a sailor, and the truth is, my son has learned most of his curse words from me.

Watching my language has emerged as one of my greatest struggles as a parent. I'm not somebody who peppers my casual conversation with vulgarities. I don't, for example, habitually use the F word as an adjective (as in, "Wow, that workout was f*%$#@^ awesome!" I don't even work out.) But when I'm tired, or stressed or mad, and it's just immediate family around, the bad words can slip out. Unfortunately, as the working soccer mom of three children under the age of ten, tired, stressed and/or mad is pretty much my default position. I don't necessarily aim my bad words at anyone -- certainly not the kids -- but I still set a horrible example. I don't want to talk this way.

Is it hypocritical to expect a coach to show a restraint that I can't easily manage myself? Maybe. Maybe not. (He is getting paid, after all.) But with my kids now encountering peers on the playground who drop F bombs, and with almost every song they hear on the radio including a bleep or two for language and scads of unbleeped references to sex, it's clear that I have exponentially less control over the language and ideas they are exposed to. What do I actually have a small chance of controlling? Myself. And it ain't easy.

I need to remember that when I feel better, I talk better. I need to find healthier ways to manage my stress. But even if I succeed in curbing this bad habit, our family still needs to hold an ongoing conversation about language, and how it's best used, because that sh*$ is not going away. And yes, I still need to talk to Coach D -- but with empathy and respect, not anger. Wish me luck.

Feel-Better Pops

2011-09-30T11:51:00.000-07:00

Cold & flu season... hooray! Here's a little secret that's sure to soothe sore little throats and cool down warm bodies.

Citrus-Honey-Ginger Pops

fresh juice of 6 limes
about 1/4 cup honey (or to taste)
1 cup water
1 or 2-inch piece of fresh ginger root, peeled and sliced

Bring all ingredients to a low boil, then simmer 10 minutes.
Allow to cool completely, then transfer mixture to an ice cube tray.
About two hours into the freezing process, add lollipop sticks or popsicle sticks to each cube.
Freeze a few more hours, or overnight.

Enjoy as often as needed!

When my family is sick, I treat symptoms as naturally as possible. These pops are great because they are medication and sugar-free, but all of the ingredients have natural healing properties. And they are refreshing and delicious... even when everyone is healthy!

2011-09-29T12:16:00.000-07:00

Meleesa

resident stylist and beauty expert : has a "costa rican" peaceful vibe flowing through her veins, runs her own salon and spa and creates natural beauty products and candles, she might be speaking English but she thinks in Spanish, blogs at Meleesa, the salon.

"Uh Oh" and "Well Done" Discipline Jars

2011-09-27T12:53:00.000-07:00

[uh-oh & well done discipline jar]

Thank you to my new BFF and total time sucker, Pinterest, I found a really great idea for discipline called the "Uh Oh" jar. I must confess that the majority of things I pin I know I will most likely never implement, and yet, I continue to pin. I pin and pin and pin. I think it helps me feel as though I have accomplished something in the little window of time that I have to myself. I don't have quite enough time to tackle a DIY project or make something from start to finish, but the craziness that is my creative brain feeds off inspiration. So, I sit down and I pin. Am I alone in this?

Well, this Uh-Oh jar pin was super timely because we are in a season of parenting boot camp. You know the one where you feel like all of the sudden your children are really rusty in all areas of obedience. They are not listening the first time, they are negotiating, they are arguing, they are tattling, they are entitled, and in general kind of not fun to be related to. That is how I have felt.

The Uh-Oh discipline jar is a jar filled with extra chores (empty the dishwasher, empty all the trash cans in the house, sweep the porch, clean out the car, dust the bookshelves, clean the sink, clean the front of the fridge, etc.) that my children earn when they exhibit any of these behaviors. Someone argues - I say, "Uh-Oh. Please go pull a consequence." And, they do. I always give them a gentle hug and reiterate what behavior standard I expect. "I know that you can listen the first time and honor my words without arguing."

The front of my fridge has never been cleaner. Nor have my bookshelves.

We also decided to implement a "Well Done" discipline jar. This is the fun part for my husband and I. We are good behavior scouts and we are looking for behavior that is above and beyond. You probably won't get a well done for listening the first time. But, you probably would get a well done if your brother spills his water and you step up to clean it without being asked. Or, if you encourage someone when normally you might criticize. The Well Done discipline jar is my children's new obsession. It is filled with fun privileges like piece of bubble gum, 4 m&m's, choose a treat from the treat jar, 10 extra minutes of cuddles with mama/papa at bedtime, 15 minutes of screen time, you earned a quarter, stay up 15 minutes later, you choose what game we play, etc.

I totally get that we want our kids to be motivated to do good internally, and to not "perform". But, I also think that when children begin to practice certain behaviors that these behaviors stick.

The Uh-Oh and Well Done discipline jars are working for us. They are our Super Nanny.

Here is the link to the sheet I used to cut out the consequences/privileges. Feel free to use if you wish!

What Can You Do This Week to End Childhood Hunger?

2011-09-19T16:12:00.001-07:00

More than 50 million Americans struggle to put food on the table. Of those affected, nearly 17 million are children. That’s nearly 1 in 4.

15.5 million kids in America live in poverty. 20.1 million rely on food stamps to get their daily nutrition.

Believe what you will about "statistics". The source for this information just happens to be U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the Food Research and Action Center.

The place to confirm or counter them is at the Hunger Facts Page, not here. I will not have it. Not today.

As far as I'm concerned, ONE child going hungry… anywhere… is too many.

But where to ever start? 17 million children is a staggering number, especially when all of my time seems to be focused on feeding the TWO that belong to me... But at the end of the day, there are still children going to bed hungry and I'm no less frazzled from having to force "one more bite" into my kids.

As my son would say, "It's so not fair!" To which I always reply, "Son, you have NO idea what not fair means..."

The truth is there are a lot of ways, big and small, to help end childhood hungry…. Not at my house. That problem is all my own. But everywhere else where there are children who actually want (and need) to eat.

It does not get much simpler than Share Our Strength’s Dine Out For No Kid Hungry event.

This week (September 18th-24th) is National Dine-out to End Childhood Hunger. To participate, all you have to do is... dine out!

Thousands of restaurants of every type all over the country are helping to raise funds that can ultimately help families put food on their tables and give kids the much needed nutrition to keep them healthy and focused. There's a participating restaurant on practically on every corner in my neighborhood.

Find one close to you, too and help put an end to childhood hunger!

SUNDAY GIVEAWAY: Bailey (children's book)

2011-09-18T04:00:00.000-07:00

We recently got a new pet. She is a super cute black and white hamster. You have no idea how hard I tried to avoid boarding the "pet train". My daughter has been begging for a puppy for about 4 years now. She so badly wanted a pet. So, for her 8th birthday the hamster was the pet compromise. Her first name was "Oreo", and then it was changed to "Joe-Joe" (Trader Joe's version of Oreos). She has become a beloved little character in my children's world. They love watching her play in her cage and do her "Joe-Joe tricks". [She is quite fancy - she climbs over her spinning wheel and slides down, and she also can do the "monkey bars" by traversing the top of the cage hand by hand.] One of their favorite Joe-Joe past times is creating stories about Joe-Joe and the absurd places she could go. To school, grocery shopping, skateboarding, driving a bus, working at disneyland - these are all places that reduce my children to giggly messes when they think of Joe-Joe cruising the real world. Its just too much fun to think of an animal doing "human stuff".

It's the same reason that Bailey, a new release by Harry Bliss, quickly grabs kids' attention and will be requested to be read again and again. Bailey is a dog who surprises and charms his fellow human classmates with his irrepressible antics. School proves to be an unexpected place for Bailey to do all sorts of things he loves: reading, fetching, painting, digging, singing — and making friends!

Three (3) winners will receive:

• copy of Bailey by Harry Bliss

To be entered in this giveaway, please leave a comment answering the following question:

"Does your family have a pet? If so, what is his/her name? If not, do your kids pine for one?"

How to earn additional entries in this giveaway:

1. Follow our blog (publicly) and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).
2. Subscribe to the Mama Memo and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).
3. Blog about the giveaway, and link back here. Post your blog entry before you comment.
4. Add the Mama Manifesto button to your sidebar.
5. Follow us on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway: "Giveaway- Win a copy of "Bailey" from @MamaManifesto. Enter at mamamanifesto.com"
6. Become a fan of Mama Manifesto on Facebook by clicking the button on the left.

This giveaway will be closed Saturday 9/24 at 11 p.m. and the winner will be announced next Sunday!

Prizing & sample courtesy of Scholastic

Prizing values: Book $16.99, each

Giveaway open to US mailing addresses only

Must-Have Baby Guide: The Finale

2011-09-16T04:52:00.000-07:00

In wrapping up the Must-Have baby guide, I'd like to share a few miscellaneous baby product favorites. You can find all the Must-Have posts here.

MadeOn Skin Care Products

The Simply Soothing Diaper Rash cream from MadeOn is made from three simple and effective natural ingredients. Coconut oil, zinc oxide and beeswax. This product was sent to me for review and we've used it not only when Elsie shows signs of a diaper rash, but after baths as well. She has only had the beginnings of a diaper rash and when this cream is used, it goes away. I love products free of additives and perfumes. Thank you MadeOn for the chance to try it out.
You can purchase Simply Soothing Diaper Rash cream here.

The Reisenthel Mother and Child Tote Bag

The Reisenthel Mother and Child bag is one of my new favorite things. With new baby and/or her car seat in one arm (or carrying anything else for that matter) and other children in tow, I love how it keeps my youngest boy, my four year old, next to me. He gets the impression he's helping me and stays safe beside me even though I don't have a free hand to hold at all times anymore. I can use this bag as a diaper bag or grocery tote because it has plenty of space and is made of sturdy canvas. It comes in a variety of colors at a cost of only 19.99. The Mother and Child Bag can be purchased here.

Zutano

These are my favorite lil' booties to put on Elsie's tootsies. Let's just keep it simple, shall we? The Zutano cozie booties are softer than soft, easy to put on and THEY STAY ON. They're the best! There are two snaps so you're able to tighten them around the tiny ankles for a secure fit. I kind of want some of my very own.

Thank you for coming along on this must-have ride with me. I hope you've found a few things to simplify your baby gadget and gear life!

Winner!

2011-09-12T11:20:00.000-07:00

The winners of the Lady Bug Girl book bundles are ...

Melissa

and

Katiemalesh

Shoot us an email by 9/25 to mamagiveaways(at)gmail(dot)com with your prize in the subject line, and we will hook you up!

Keep checking back for more great giveaways!

Must-Have Baby Guide: Clothes!

2011-09-12T11:14:00.000-07:00

There are so many adorable clothing lines out there for babies and I suppose we can't call them all "must-haves," but of course, a baby needs clothes and I'm happy to tell you about a couple favorites of ours. I love baby clothes that are safe for baby, well-made and lovely...

Like those from Butters and Beans...

A fellow Minnesotan and mother is the brains behind Butters and Beans, a clothing line for babies, children and moms. All items are organic, soft and durable. We've had the pleasure of opening the sweet packages from B & B and enjoying the wares. I just truly love each and every thing. I mean, look at this adorable baby jewelry...

and the designs?

Yes. I KNOW.

Butters and Beans has become a favorite for making up my Elsie wish-list. You can shop around the Butters and Beans website here to see all of the many designs to love so much. (It's really a whole lot of fun.)

:::

Halo

Another company that I love is Halo. When I had Elsie, the hospital provided the use of a Halo swaddler while we were there. We LOVED that thing and immediately went searching for it when we got home. Halo makes wearable blankets and swaddlers and now even includes a line of clothing for baby that keep that sensitive skin from getting over-heated.

Halo Sleep Sack base Layer

We love the Halo Sleep Sack Base Layer that was sent to us because our little Elsie runs quite warm and sweats easily in traditional pajamas. The base layer makes for easy night time diaper access and keeps Elsie at a comfortable temperature while also keeping her dry.

We top her off (with both milk and a wearable blanket) with a Halo sleep sack and hope for a few good hours of sleep. We were sent a lovely and very soft sleep sack like this one:

Here are the benefits of the wearable blanket as listed on the Halo site:

Sleeveless design allows for ventilation and reduces the risk of overheating.
Generous sack design allows room for kicking, but can’t be kicked off so baby stays warm all night.
Unzips from the bottom for easy diaper changes.
"Back is Best" embroidery reminds caregivers to place baby on his or her back.
Used by over 600 hospital nurseries as their product of choice for teaching parents safe sleep practices
Approved as "Hip Healthy" by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute.
A portion of every sale goes to First Candle/SIDS Alliance and The Canadian Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths.

I've been loving Halo products since our first son came along and appreciate the hard work they continue to do in coming up with innovative products that keep our babies safe and comfortable.

For more must-have favorites:
Must-Have Baby Guide - Babywearing
Must-Have Baby Guide - Tummy Soothing
Must-Have Baby Guide - Gear

Must-Have Baby Guide: Gear

2011-09-06T07:20:00.000-07:00

With our first baby, we thought we had to have every baby contraption ever created from a Johnny jumper thingy to an exersaucer to the finest and biggest stroller. After our second boy came along and both boys had not made good use of much of what we had, we donated or sold everything. Then we found out we were pregnant with number three and quickly decided to limit our baby items this time around.

Of course, every person's "must-haves" are different, but this is what works for us:

Fisher Price rock and play sleeper

This rocking chair has been perfect for our Elsie. She sleeps in it much of the time and loves to sit and watch us from it. The rock and play sleeper is really good for a baby struggling with reflux. The angle seems to make Elsie more comfortable. I love the style, the fabric and how easily it folds for easy storing and/or transporting. We've been more happy with this product than any other bouncy seat, etc that we've used in the past. It moves with the baby's movements but doesn't rock on its own. I've seen reviews that looked at this as a bad thing, but in my humble opinion, I like that the chair isn't in constant motion. It moves slightly when Elsie moves and rocks slowly for a few seconds with those movements. This seems just right for her little liking.

Graco Snugrider Infant Car Seat Frame

By the third go-round, we've learned that we don't have to spend a lot of money to get what we need. This car seat frame has been one of the best decisions we've made. It is inexpensive, so easy to use, lightweight and folds to a small size. With our first two children we purchased the larger strollers but we've come to realize that since we have the car seat anyway, this is all we really need and for a fraction of the cost. Once Elsie grows out of her infant car seat, we'll simply by another more inexpensive stroller for toddlers. In other words, what works for our family is to forgo buying the complete travel system in exchange for ease of use and a smaller size.

Svan Highchair

I'm grateful to (disclaimer!) have received this Svan Highchair for review. Obviously, Elsie is not big enough to sit up on her own but the chair is already in good use because of its removable tray design. Our two boys love to use it as a stool and choose it over our other chairs (in other words, they fight over it). Its seat adjusts horizontally and vertically, as does its footrest. This high chair can therefore be adjusted to be used by even a teen or adult. I also love its modern design; it blends in great with the rest of our decor. Before we know it, Elsie will be sitting with us in her Svan high chair. They grow so fast, and that's exactly why I love the grow-with-you design of this piece.

For more must-have favorites:
Must-Have Baby Guide - Babywearing
Must-Have Baby Guide - Tummy Soothing

SUNDAY GIVEAWAY: Ladybug Girl book prize pack

2011-09-04T04:00:00.000-07:00

This week's giveaway is just in time for getting back to school and back into the swing of reading.

We have loved reading the latest "Ladybug Girl" releases - Ladybug Girl and the Bug Squad & Ladybug Girl at the Beach.

If you are new to the Ladybug series, you will quickly fall is love with "Ladybug Girl" whose actual name is Lulu. She is an adventurous little girl who loves to dress up in her ladybug costume and use her imagination. She has a trusty sidekick (Bingo, a basset hound), and whenever circumstances feel a little larger than Lulu's bravery level, she taps into her "Ladybug Girl" bravery and can conquer the world.

LADYBUG GIRL AT THE BEACH:

Lulu has high expectations for the beach. Even though she has never been there before, she knows that it will be everything she has ever dreamed of. And then she sees the ocean and it is big and loud and rough. That's okay - Lulu wanted to build sand castles and fly her kite with Bingo anyway. But while they are building their sand castle, the sneaky ocean comes in and tries to steal Lulu's favorite pail. This is a job for Ladybug Girl!

Lulu conquers her fear of the ocean when she remembers that Ladybug Girl can do anything, in this gorgeously illustrated children's book.

LADYBUG GIRL AND THE BUG SQUAD:

Lulu is so excited for the Bug Squad to come over for a playdate, and she has all kinds of things planned for them to do - right down to eating cupcakes. The cupcakes are special because each one has a candle that Lulu thinks everyone should blow out at exactly the same time.

But when things don't go just the way Lulu planned, feelings are hurt and apologies are necessary. Sounds like a job for Ladybug Girl, who knows how to be brave and say she's sorry, even when it isn't easy. This is the perfect read for kiddos who may need a little help in letting go of expectations and learning how to apologize.

Two (2) winners will receive:

· Ladybug Girl and the Bug Squad
· Ladybug Girl at the Beach

Leave us a comment answering the following question:

"What was your favorite book you read this summer?"

How to earn additional entries in this giveaway:

1. Follow our blog (publicly) and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).
2. Subscribe to the Mama Memo and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).
3. Blog about the giveaway, and link back here. Post your blog entry before you comment.
4. Add the Mama Manifesto button to your sidebar.
5. Follow us on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway: "Giveaway- Win a copy of "LadyBug girl at the beach and Ladybug girl and the bug squad" from @MamaManifesto. Enter at mamamanifesto.com"
6. Become a fan of Mama Manifesto on Facebook by clicking the button on the left.

This giveaway will be closed Saturday 9/10 at 11 p.m. and the winner will be announced next Sunday!

Must-Have Baby Guide: Tummy Soothing

2011-08-23T06:13:00.000-07:00

If you're familiar with The Extraordinary Ordinary at all, you're fully aware that my nearly three month old, Elsie, has had a rough first few months. She is dealing with severe reflux and a very gassy tummy. Her older brother Asher had the same issues, so we've had a lot of experience in trying to soothe our sweet babes while they're in pain. (I've written a post over there with a plethora of information about colic and what seems to help if you'd like to learn more.)

Thankfully, our first baby (who is now six year old, Miles) didn't have these issues. I had no idea that there were more products out there other than medicinal simethicone drops at that time. With Asher and Elsie having such terrible stomach pain, I've become aware of natural options that work really well for gas and overall digestive comfort.

Mommy's Bliss Gripe Water is the one most caregivers are familiar with, and I believe that's because it works! Every time I mention Elsie's issues on Twitter or Facebook, someone recommends Mommy's Bliss. Many of these moms say that Gripe Water helped in the occasional times when (if they were nursing) they ate something that didn't sit well with their baby and/or if they had a colicky baby like mine and used it consistently.

Mommy's Bliss is safe and natural and babies (at least mine) seem to love the taste of it (they don't fight it like crazy like other medications). It also works quickly and effectively. When your baby is crying, quickly is what you want most of all.

Mommy's Bliss Gripe Water is available now in many stores. You can find a store that carries it near you by using the Store Locator on the Mommy's Bliss site or it can be purchased online here.

(Although this company was kind enough to send me some Gripe Water for review, these opinions are sincerely mine.)

:::

A homeopathic remedy that has worked really well for us is called Colic Calm. This product includes many of the same natural stomach soothers as Mommy's Bliss, but it also includes (and this will sound weird) vegetable charcoal. This helps stimulate the digestive system to do its job, moving gas and poo through. So much of the time, what is ailing Elsie is her inability to get her gas out. Her tummy gets so full and hard and painful, and Colic Calm seems to be doing the trick in preventing that from happening.

I've spoken with our pediatrician about the Colic Calm formula and she had nothing but good things to say about it. So, we got the "safe" go-ahead that we mothers sometimes need, and therefore have peace of mind about trying something that we purchased online.

One thing to know about Colic Calm is that it does turn your baby's mouth black for a little while after each dose. It can also stain clothes, burpies and blankets so use care when using it. I for one am not too concerned about this as long as I'm bringing Elsie some relief.

Colic Calm is available online and is $18.95 a bottle. (Totally worth it in my opinion, and does last a long time.)

:::::

Hyland's also offers both teething and colic melt-away (natural) tablets. These also seem to help Elsie, dissolving and working quickly. We use these when she is especially fidgety and seems to be acting as if she's teething, chomping on her fist veraciously. (Asher had teeth by four months of age and it seems Elsie is also teething early.) Hyland's products are available in many stores and can even be purchased on Amazon.

Side note: I love that I can have peace of mind when using these natural remedies rather than medicinal ones, but I realize there is a time when medical intervention is necessary for a baby's comfort (and your sanity) and therefore we do have Elsie on a prescribed medication for her severe reflux.

Stay tuned for the next installment in the Must-Have Baby Guide wherein I tell you all about our favorite baby gear.

Going From 2 To 3...

2011-08-22T06:14:00.000-07:00

Before I had Elsie over two months ago, the topic of conversation with nearly every mother almost always turned to the transition from 2 kids to 3. Sometimes a fellow mother would speak from her personal experience and sometimes moms with 1 or 2 kids would talk about what they've heard from moms of 3 or more.

I'll admit, I was a bit disillusioned. I assumed that nothing could be harder than the transition we had from 1 to 2; in which Asher cried for 15 hours a day for MONTHS. I actually still believe that to be true and so I'm quite grateful, especially now, for the perspective. But like I said, I was disillusioned this time, mostly because when I'm pregnant, the whole baby-actually-coming-out thing has consistently been a bit foreign to me until it actually happens. And I also believed that I had this whole thing down, you know? (Hello EGO!) I told everyone who would listen that my boys were ready and we were ready and the boys were at a perfect age for this and and and...

To some extent, I still believe all of that, too. The boys are doing really well. Elsie has been really good for them, in so many ways. But what I didn't really understand is that having a third baby would mean that I would most likely never be "on top" of anything ever again. At least not for years and years. I'm a recovering control freak and perfectionist so this is hard for me. Hard, but also terribly good for me, because as much as I thought I had let go, I had not.

For me, aside from the emotional and physical adjustment to having a newborn, the trickiest part of this is the logistics. Of course, this will get a bit easier with time, as Elsie grows (out of her colic, especially), but I'm also aware that even if it's easier, it will never be easy. I might be someone who strives for control and perfection but I'm also totally scattered and unable to focus much of the time. (What a fun combo!!!)

So. The bills I've been needing to pay have been sitting on the table all week (ALL WEEK-SAME BIG PILE!) and I keep meaning to make doctor appointments since the boys just turned 4 and 6 and I need to call about a kindergarten screening for Asher, ETC...

These things linger over me...they hover, actually, speeding up my heart and making me feel small. Then I remember that Elsie has been struggling, really struggling and that means that I have been too. Then I take a deep breath and close my eyes to all the many things to do because all I can do is what is needed in this moment. And in this moment, a hurting baby needs my comfort and her brothers need to know that I'm still here for them. The floors and even the doctor and the bills? They don't have this connection of reliance on me or their strings wrapped around my heart. They are only wrapping something akin to tentacles around my brain. Thinking too much about what I cannot keep up with only tightens the grip and moves the pain to my heart and that's not good. My heart is already busy enough.

The reality is that the logistics are always going to be there and I may always be a little behind...but sooner or later, anything that really must be done will get done. I mean, I may pay the bills late, after I get those threatening reminders, but I'll pay them.

Mostly, going from 2 to 3 has been a strange kind of relief. Maybe it's because I know we're done and I feel a sense of completion, a knowledge that our family has pushed through the cocoon and is beginning to flourish. So despite all the stresses, I feel, at my very core, at peace with family life.

It's funny how we mothers talk about these transitions as if everyone experiences them the same way or like there might be something definite to know while we prepare for change. I think I wanted to be told over and over that this transition was the easiest of all transitions and I wanted Other Mother Proof of that. But we don't get that. Some say going from 2 to 3 is a breeze and some say having a third turned their family upside down. Both are true to some extent like anything else. We're all telling our own unique stories here and the truth is that none of them are filled with very much Easy, just easier parts.

We cocoon and we flourish and we fail and we strive. Then here and there we rest in the middle of an unexpected flower and we can't believe we get to breathe for a moment. One baby or two kids or five kids or nine, what remains the same is that we're learning to let go and to do some tentacle prying, and this is good.

Heather writes at The Extraordinary Ordinary

Mama Loves ...

2011-08-21T10:04:00.000-07:00

It’s been waaay too long since I offered up some good kid lit picks. And, since Mama Loves to read with her kiddos, here are some of my favorite summer-time finds.

The I'm NOT SCARED Book by Todd Parr

Mama loves Todd Parr, famed author of It’s Okay to Be Different, who just unveiled a brand new book, The I'm NOT SCARED Book. Todd's stories embody acceptance and tolerance – for others and ourselves. Unlike other books, I can read (or listen!) to one of Todd’s stories a thousand times (and probably have). Todd with Thumb Arcade also released his first iPhone app based on his wildly popular book My Underwear: Dos and Don’ts. The My Underwear iPhone/iPad app ($1.99) will easily get you through the grocery store or a dining experience. Just be warned … this app will also elicit uncontrollable and loud giggles from the 3-7 YO crowd (and maybe a few Dads too).

Kathryn the Grape by Kathryn Cloward & Jody Duhamel

Kathryn the Grape, a young girl armed with a magic wand and an imaginary butterfly, discovers her inner strength during that fantastic age where she is open to all the good that is in the world. I love that her wand “buzzes” whenever a little magic is in need – just like when our tummies flip and flop when we’re nervous. My favorite part – she can only use her magic for good (no turning her bros into toads). Kathryn the Grape is one of those rare books that opens up the door to life’s never-ending conversation about inner strength, unique voice, and the magic within. Bravo to first-time authors Kathryn Cloward & Jody Duhamel!

ZooBorns! by Andrew Bleiman and Chris Eastland

Really, there is nothing cuter (or uglier) than a new born animal. Take a newly born anteater. So darn ugly that it’s actually cute. ZooBorns! is a beautiful picture book that introduces baby critters from zoos and aquariums from around the world. The pictures are stunning and the words are simple enough for an early reader to enjoy. What’s really cool about ZooBorns? Both my kids had lots of questions about the animals pictured. At the end of the book, there was a section on getting to know the ZooBorns, which provided details on each animal’s species, zoo home, endangered status as well as tidbits on the animal’s personal story. Get daily pictures of the newest ZooBorns! by downloading a FREE Android or iPhone app.

HAPPY READING!

(Disclaimer: I received these books and others for review, but only blog about those that inspire and touch me.)

Must-Have Baby Guide: Babywearing

2011-08-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

When I was pregnant with my first son, I walked the aisles of the baby department store wide-eyed and overwhelmed. I was holding that registering gun in my hand and beeping everything in sight. And then we had way too many contraptions around our house, many of them remaining under-utilized even through the birth and infancy of our second son.

By baby number three (who arrived in June!) I've learned (the hard way) what I truly need and love in the great big world of baby products. This must-have guide is a result of my adventures and will include a few posts featuring items that I believe every mother should have or at least try. My hope is to make your life easier (and less cluttered).

:::

Let's start with babywearing!

I'm all about the ease and convenience of attaching my newborn and infant to myself and then USING MY FREE ARMS!

There are two products that I love and want to share with you today...

THE ERGO baby carrier

The Ergo pictured above includes a newborn insert for babies under 10 lbs. (sold separately.) After surpassing this weight, infants are placed directly in the Ergo, like this:

Right now my daughter, Elsie, is a wee one, so she frog-legs it inside the Ergo and not much of her noggin peeks out. It's one of her favorite places to be and I'm so grateful for that because she's got The Colic. The Ergo carrier is one of the only places this little lady will stop crying to sleep. I highly recommend the Ergo for all babies, but especially the fussy ones.

And check this out...NEW for Ergo--Petunia Pickle Bottom!

:::

The BALBOA Sling

As much as I love a good carrier, I also must have babywearing slings. Balboa makes one of the best and one of the reasons I believe that is because it's SO easy to slide on. (We all know this is not the case with many more tricky babywearing items.)

Developed by Dr. Sears, the Balboa sling is "designed to grow as your baby does...(and) offers parents hands free motion and promotes bonding." - from the Balboa site.

What I personally love about the Balboa sling is its overall design, especially the padded edge for your baby's comfort. This sling is comfortable for both the caregiver and the baby and the designs to choose from are more than appealing. I especially love how padded the strap is that goes up and over your shoulder and the convenience of taking this sling along. It's lightweight and smaller than most and yet works safely and effectively, keeping your baby snug and close.

I have other slings, wraps and carriers, but these are the two I wanted to share as favorites because I honestly love them. Babywearing truly makes a mother's life easier but the options available can be overwhelming. So, I leave you with these two, the Ergo, which can be purchased here and the Balboa, which can be purchased here.

Happy wearing!

Disclaimer: I received both items for review from the companies free of charge. This is not the reason that I profess love for the Ergo and Balboa, though. I do that because my words are true, I'm a fan of both.

Heather writes at The Extraordinary Ordinary

Farewell, Fire Truck

2011-07-22T11:28:00.000-07:00

We've been working on clutter clearing at our house recently. I asked my son, Gobez, to go through his room and pull out anything he no longer wanted. He threw exactly two items into the hallway: a medieval toy castle and a fire truck. Seeing the truck on the junk pile made me gasp.

"Gobez, honey," I called. "Are you sure you want to give away your fire truck?"

"I don't like it any more," he said.

Gobez turned 9 in May. He hasn't played with the truck in years. Of course he wants to give it away.

I sat down on the hallway floor and began wiping dust off the truck with a damp rag, readying it for the donation box. Within seconds I was sniffling, and then I broke into a full-on sob, my son's discarded toy still in my lap.

Gobez poked his head out of his room. "Mom, what's wrong?"

"Nothing," I told him. "I'm just sad about the fire truck."

Gobez looked at me with confusion. "Do you want to play with it? Because you can have it. I don't care."

I laughed. "No, honey. I don't want to play with it. I'm sad because it was your very first birthday present from us. Do you remember?"

My son shook his head. "You're crazy," he said, and ducked back into his room.

Gobez was only 3 years old, and his little sister Lemlem just 2, the day they bravely followed my husband, John, and me onto an Ethiopian Airlines jet bound for the U.S. Three months later, it was already time to celebrate my new son's fourth birthday. At that point, communication in our household consisted of an incoherent mishmash of English, toddler Amharic, and emphatic gesturing. I wasn't even sure Gobez knew what a birthday was, and I had no way to explain the concept to him. Throwing a big party would be overwhelming for him and for me. Frankly, as the exhausted new mom of two rambunctious kids whom I barely knew, hosting a party for a pack of preschoolers sounded like torture.

We packed the kids in the car instead and met my sister, Heather, and her boyfriend, Clint, at the beach. The day was brisk and windy. Sand drifted into our sandwiches and dusted the birthday cake. The kids had never seen the ocean before, but it was too cold to even dip a toe in. We tried to stage a game of Wiffle Ball with the set Heather and Clint had brought as a gift, but the wind outplayed us. Then John and I gave our son his big present: a large fire truck, much like the one he enjoyed in Miss Sarah's room at preschool, and he laughed. All in all, it was a lovely day, except for the unspoken burden we all shared: We didn't quite feel like a family. Not yet. We were gingerly going through the motions and hoping for the best. We bought our son a fire truck because that is what you do when a boy turns 4, and honestly, we had no other ideas. Somehow, we fumbled our way through the first big family occasion and survived.

For years, I tripped over that fire truck, which became a fixture of our daily lives together. Gobez and his engine rescued dolls in peril for his sisters and rushed to the scene of elaborately staged bike accidents to care for the wounded toys. Every single day, I would hear my son wailing "Woooo, woooo, woooo!" as he pushed that truck down the hallway, until one day, the wailing stopped. Gobez had moved on. If a toy didn't have a remote control unit or a microprocessor, he wasn't interested. Relegated to a dusty corner of the bedroom, the truck hung around for old times' sake. Now it's gone.

Many birthdays have passed for our family since that first tentative celebration. Now I know that Gobez wants me to make Cincinnati Chili for his birthday dinner, that he wants to bring buttermilk cupcakes with chocolate cream cheese frosting for his classmates, and that he expects a chocolate cake decorated like a soccer field if we throw a big bash. For his ninth birthday, I knew he would love was the Team USA soccer jersey I got him, personalized with his name and team number.

We've come a long way together. We can let some things go.

This post was previously published at Be Bold or Go Home.

Pretty Easy Ice Cream Cake

2011-07-12T12:19:00.000-07:00

I love to make birthday cakes for my kids, though it's not always easy to find the time, plus there's always the risk of a panic attack-inducing flop just hours before the party starts. (It's happened.) This year I decided to try making an ice cream cake for my daughter Lemlem's party. I'd be able to prepare the cake a few days ahead of time, which would cut down on last minute stress. I also liked the idea of saving the $40 or so I'd spend for a similar cake from Baskin Robbins or Cold Stone Creamery. Really, how hard could it be?

A little recipe Googling turned up this helpful video on The Better Homes and Gardens website. (I wish I could embed the video for you. I really wish you could hear my excellent imitation of the Test Kitchen Lady's distinctive voice, though my husband was unamused by my fabulous copycat narration as I was making my own cake.)

From the video I learned that I'd need:

An 8 inch springform pan
Three 9 inch layer cakes (to allow for baking "shrinkage")
Parchment paper
Two quarts of ice cream, softened

Here's the process:

Slip some parchment paper into the bottom of the springform pan as shown in the video, then drop in a cake layer. Top with half of the softened ice cream and add the next cake layer. Spread the rest of the ice cream, ending with the last layer of cake. The cake will look like a giant, ugly ice cream sandwich at this point. You'll be worried about failure. Have faith. Throw the mess in the freezer and leave it overnight.

Better Homes and Gardens suggests frosting your cake with Cool Whip just before serving, but I'm not a Cool Whip fan, so I did some more Googling. I learned that when you buy ice cream cake, the "frosting" is usually just another layer of ice cream, so I decided to go that route. You'll need an additional quart/quart and a half of ice cream for this.

Soften the ice cream "frosting" on the counter for a few minutes and stir it into a frosting consistency; you can even use a mixer to stir it if you have one. Remove the frozen cake from the springform pan and slather on the creamy goodness. Freeze again for at least two hours. You're done!

I ended up making two cakes to accommodate a broader range of tastebuds. The Birthday Girl requested chocolate cake with chocolate mint ice cream, a concoction I frosted with plain chocolate and topped with colorful mints before freezing.

My oldest daughter inexplicably hates chocolate, so my second cake had golden layers, strawberry ice cream filling, vanilla ice cream frosting and a few strawberry jelly candies on top.

I made my cake layers from scratch, but you can use cake mix, brownie mix, or even a pre-baked angel food cake from the grocery. Making your own ice cream cake demands some time and planning, but very little talent. My cakes didn't look Martha Stewart good, but they tasted delicious.

The Summer Mom

2011-07-07T11:05:00.000-07:00

Like so many moms, I usually fall short when it comes to meeting my own parenting expectations. I beat myself up when the laundry's piled, the floors are sticky, and I can't quite get it together to plan that overdue birthday party. It's tempting to label the constant scrambling to keep up as personal failure, because after all, if it's personal, I can pretend to have some control over the chaos; with just the right mix of organization and self-discipline, I should be able to do it all, right?

That's the kind of deluded thinking that wears a body out, but it's a hard habit to break.

That's why I'm so grateful for the arrival of summer. The longer days and lighter schedule help me remember that the school year stress and the chaos isn't all my fault. With no homework, no soccer practice, and almost no email, I'm suddenly a model of patience and efficiency compared to my winter self. And even when things do spiral out of control, it's easier to let go of the angst when the sun is shining. Why not leave the laundry on the floor and take the kids to the pool instead? Why not curl up in the hammock with my daughter and read together, or shoot a few baskets with my son? This lovely season is fleeting, and it makes me want to yes to the good things.

In summer, I still don't live up to my own impossible expectations, but I edge just a little closer to my ideal, and that makes me happy. Now I just need to find a way to get The Summer Mom to stick around come fall.

pesticides in produce

2011-06-16T08:48:00.000-07:00

The Environmental Working Group has just released its 2011 Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce. Topping the Dirty Dozen this year? The conventional apple. My kids eat apples every day! The handy guide lists the top conventional fruits and vegetables highest and lowest in pesticide residues (tested washed and peeled, as typically eaten!). Learn more and download the updated shopping guide here.

Dirty Dozen (buy these ORGANIC if possible!):

1. apples
2. celery
3. strawberries
4. peaches
5. spinach
6. nectarines (imported)
7. grapes (imported)
8. sweet bell peppers
9. potatoes
10. blueberries (domestic)
11. lettuce
12. kale/collard greens

Clean Fifteen (lowest pesticide contamination):

1. onions
2. sweet corn
3. pineapple
4. avocado
5. asparagus
6. sweet peas
7. mangoes
8. eggplant
9. cantaloupe (domestic)
10. kiwi
11. cabbage
12. watermelon
13. sweet potatoes
14. grapefruit
15. mushrooms

Ferragamos and Friendship

2011-06-14T10:34:00.000-07:00

I sat perched on the bed. Criss-cross, apple sauce with my chin in my hands – she had my full attention. It was as if we had rewound our lives and we’re sitting in our college apartment – as we had done hundreds, if not thousands of times before.

She was pulling out one dress after another from a bulging closet. I was providing fashion op-ed.
“No. Not that one,” I’d say. “Oh, yeah. I like that one. Plus, you can wash, line dry and wear that dress the next day.” Here I am gushing practicality, when really all she needs is a sexy frock because last I checked, they do have laundry service in Italy. My sense of self really started to unravel when she pulled out a flat (A FLAT!) of designer shoes hiding beneath her bed.

“My God! When did this happen?” Before, she could answer, I continue on a tirade that went something like this. “Those are Jimmy Choos and you don’t have one pair – you have several. And, what are those?”

“THOSE,” she replied, “are my gateway shoes. Ferragamos.” A gateway shoe? “You know. Pot is considered the gateway drug. Ferragamos are what I call my gateway shoes.” I lamely reply, “Those are cute,” which I’m sure it is a fashion injustice of epic proportion. She lets me slide because she’s now pulling out each pair of shoes and telling me the back story.

I’m not listening. I’m now calculating her shoe investment when I realize that each pair is in p-e-r-f-e-c-t condition. Perfectly positioned and perfectly organized and perfectly packaged.

Mind you, this is the girl whose college bedroom was in constant state of disaster and proved rich fodder for many of my photos essays. While her housekeeping skills haven’t changed over the last 20 years, her panache for some sexy, well-heeled … well, heels has evolved.

The next logical question (of course): “Who gets your shoes if you perish in Italy?” She rattles off a few names, to which I make a mental note. We do this kind of crazy stuff for one another. I’ve given her orders on how I want my kids raised if I kick it and specific secret instructions (just in case). I thought the least I could do was get her shoes to the right woman -- especially since I couldn't cram my fat foot into her shoes if I tried.

At that moment, I realize that our lives couldn’t be more different. She’s single, no kids. For goodness sakes, she doesn’t even own a kitchen table. For some reason, this gives me heart palpitations since my life literally revolves around the kitchen table by way of food, homework and heart-to-hearts.

Seemingly, we have so little in common. Yet, we know every detail of each other lives. And, every once in a while, we get to slip away sans family and work and commitments and just be two friends - sisters - surrounded by a sea of really rad shoes talking about Ferragamos and Florence over lemon drops.

Mama Love

2011-06-09T04:00:00.000-07:00

I love that we recently had the opportunity to review a couple products for men! We often get to try out products for moms and kids, but rarely do men's products arrive at our doorstep.

But, with Father's Day approaching, we have gotten to sample a few products for men. My husband is one of the pickiest shoppers I know, so to get his vote of approval is a pretty big deal!

These are my hubby's top picks:

L'Occitan Shaving Gel

This shaving gel is great for sensitive skin. It leaves skin silky smooth and with a hint of a scent that

won't compete too heavily with your man's favorite aftershave.

(It works great on women's legs too. That's our little secret!)

McGraw, by Tim McGraw

Whether you are a country music fan or not, I'd bet you will be a fan of this cologne. Its a great combination of woody, spicy and fresh notes of grated Nutmeg, Lavender, Amber, Patchouli and Sandalwood.

My hubby has been a die hard Kiel's fan and this has become his new fave. It can be found at most drug stores and retail stores and is at a price point we all will love.

Yes! We Have No Bananas

2011-06-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

I am a woman on the verge of a nervous breakdown.

Right now, in my in box, I have:

Two emails regarding a "Year End Pizza Party."

Five emails concerning a "Little Buddy Party."

Seven emails pertaining to bananas. That's right, people. BANANAS.

And as more and more parents from three classrooms hit "Reply All,"

I fear that I may spontaneously combust from request overload by dinnertime.

A few weeks ago, my fellow Mama, Kristen, shared a post on her personal blog called "Working Moms and Narrow Margins", about how one unforeseen development (like a sick child) or one unexpected request ("Can you bring muffins for the class tomorrow?") can throw a busy mom's carefully calibrated life into immediate chaos. I was one of many commenters who empathized with Kristen, while also offering this unsolicited advice: You need to say no more often, I calmly advised.

It's a wonder she didn't reach through the computer screen and slap me.

I'm fabulous at saying no. In fact, TODAY I AM SAYING NO TO BANANAS. But still, saying no takes time and energy. There is guilt (even though my son hates bananas.) There is self-recrimination (even though I personally attended school for 18 years, never encountered bananas in any educational setting, and still turned out fine.) There is regret (even though I predict that 85% of those bananas will ultimately end up in the campus trash.)

But mostly, there is just more and more last-minute email, until school finally gives way to summer.

Talking with Kids About Homelessness

2011-05-31T11:24:00.000-07:00

Our family took a Memorial Weekend getaway to San Francisco. Though we intended our mini-vacation to be pure fun, it also ended up being a learning experience -- mostly for me. As we made our way around the city, we encountered the homeless on nearly every block, which left my ten-year-old daughter Didi frightened, my nine-year-old son Gobez speechless, and my youngest girl, Lemlem, age eight, full of questions that I didn't quite know how to answer.

It's not that my children have been sheltered. On the contrary, they probably know more about the issue of homelessness than many suburban kids. The Episcopal church we attend runs a Tuesday soup kitchen and provides ongoing support for the homeless in our community of 30,000. The kids have helped me make apple pies, brownies, banana bread and more for the clients. We know most of the folks in the program, and when I spot a new homeless person around town, I don't hesitate to approach and invite him or her to come by for Tuesday lunch.

Though I consider myself to be a caring person, our San Francisco weekend pointed out my limitations and contradictions. As soon as we stepped into Union Square, I automatically shifted into "city mode," focusing only on keeping the kids close and avoiding potential risks. I didn't even realize that I'd ceased to be present to the dignity and suffering of the human beings around me until Lemlem started shooting out questions:

Mom, what happened to her legs?

Mom, is that guy okay?

Mom, why didn't you give him any money?

In every case, I realized with shock that I'd failed to even see the person she was talking about.

Then, after just 20 minutes in the city, Lemlem asked the most painful question of all:

Mom, how come almost all the homeless people here are black?

I gasped, because, you see, Lemlem, my beautiful Ethiopian-born daughter, is black herself. The subtext was clear: Why do all the people in pain look like me? It's a question that I, as her adoptive white mother, can't shy away from if I want to help her grow into a strong, confident and caring black woman. Unfortunately, it's also a question that can't be appropriately addressed during a mad dash to the subway.

"That's something we'll spend some time talking about later," I promised.

Lemlem accepted my stall. She kept herself busy by keeping a running tally of the number of homeless we encountered, broken down by race and gender. She even made up a code, so that she could discreetly point out every person in need. "Mom, there's another BHM," she'd say, referring to a Black Homeless Male. "Look, there's a WHW."

She found my reluctance to give anything to the street people harder to accept. We were preparing to leave the hotel at one point when Lemlem proudly pulled open her coat pocket to reveal a half-eaten bag of Trader Joe's Kettle Corn. "I didn't eat all of this," she said, "so that I could share some with the homeless people we meet."

Stunned, I struggled to explain the need to balance compassion with caution in terms an eight-year-old could understand. For her own safety, I couldn't allow Lemlem to inadvertently approach a mentally ill person with a sweet offering that might be violently refused, and yet I felt uncomfortable squashing her impulse to freely give of the "bounty" she possessed. Isn't that spirit of giving the essence of compassion?

"We'll find an organization that helps the homeless in San Francisco and make a donation," I promised again.

Thankfully, finding the right organization turned out to be easy. Our weekend itinerary included attending Sunday morning services at Glide Memorial, the vibrant San Francisco church famous for its joyful gospel choir and decades of service to the city's most marginalized. Glide's program for the homeless figured into the storyline of The Pursuit of Happyness, the 2006 Will Smith film based on Chris Gardner's best-selling memoir about his struggle with homelessness. This clip from the movie, filmed at Glide, includes San Francisco's homeless as extras and features the church's incredible choir:

I'd planned to take my kids to Glide so that we could experience the powerful music and spiritual energy of a diverse urban church. We got all that and more. Knowing that Lemlem had absorbed so many difficult images of homeless African Americans, I felt especially glad that all three children could see African Americans, Asians and whites leading the Glide service together, speaking with passion about addressing ssues of social justice, and inspiring the congregation with song and poetry.

Lemlem especially loved Glide, as I knew she would. The service wasn't even over before she asked me when we could come back. We've already made our donation, and our family has agreed that we'll drive into the city more often and definitely include Glide in our plans. Going back to San Francisco, and back to the church that serves it with such heart, will ensure that our family keeps this important conversation alive.

Memorial Day Craft Idea

2011-05-26T04:00:00.000-07:00

In honor of Memorial Day this weekend, we wanted a project for the kids to do that would bless Veterans. It was very simple, fun for the kids, and turned out really sweet.

How To:

Print the "Dear Veterans" template - click here to download the google doc

Use a paper cutter to cut into 4 postcard sized letters

Punch two holes along the right side of the "Dear Veterans" side

Have the kids sign their names and their ages on the letter

On the blank side, have the kids sketch a flag with the rectangle in the upper left corner, and then the stripes.

Color the rectangle blue, and stripes red and white

We had stickers for them to apply to the rectangle

Thread the straw through the holes in order to complete the "Flag"

Beaded Saftey Pin How To:

Have the kids thread red, white and blue beads onto safety pins, and then pin to the front of the letter.

Mail or deliver to Veterans you know!

There were about 45 children who made these at our KWAV's group this week. We delivered them to the local VA Hospital today and it was pretty darn sweet. We had a group of preschoolers handing them out. They would smile at the Veterans in the cafeteria and hand them a flag with cute shy voices saying, "Thank you for your service to our country." The Veterans were so touched. It was such a simple thing to do and they were very touched.

[who can resist these brave soldiers?]

My two favorite moments:

1. My son handed his flag to an older Veteran who was wearing his marines hat proudly and the gentleman said, with tears in his eyes, "You just made my day. Thank you, son."

2. A group of fellas were sharing lunch and 2 of our preschool boys handed them all flags. They smiled at our boys and then saluted them. Then, they taught the boys how to salute. Precious.

It was a blessing to see these individuals feel appreciated. My son was beaming with pride and felt super happy that he made them happy.

Go bless someone this weekend.

Love Notes

2011-05-25T10:22:00.000-07:00

A couple of mamas in my neighborhood and I have started a little after school program for kids in our neighborhood. It has grown into the best part of my week. We are seeing kids change and grow into more loving little people right before our eyes.

Each week we do some sort of service project.

Each week we have a character trait that we focus on. Last week our character trait was "Encourage". The definition we gave the kids was "Showing support for others with our words and actions."

Our service projects just happened to fit perfectly. The kids made "Blessing Bags" for the homeless (a great way to support others with their actions). And, then they made Love Notes boxes to take home. The goal is for us to practice supporting our family members with our words by leaving love notes for them.

This idea was inspired by the Love Notes boxes that Becky Higgins made for her friends. We modified it slightly to fit our project, but she is the genius who came up with the idea!

If you are interested in making some Love Notes boxes for a family you love, this is what you need:

a small box of some sort - either a take out box like we used, or small container

post its

the "love notes" label, for on top of the box - Click Here for the google doc

the "love notes" verse for the front of the box - Click Here for the google doc. We attached the verse with a small brad, but you could tape it, staple it, or use a cute sticker or japanese masking tape.

the "love notes" description for the inside of the box (or it could be tied to the box with cute ribbon or twine) - Click Here for the google doc

These would be super cute to give out at Christmas or Valentine's Day to families you love. You could put some Hershey's kisses in the bottom of the box to sweeten the deal.

Now, go love on someone.

Please

2011-05-24T04:00:00.000-07:00

notes to my children:

Don’t forget to feel
and then move on
if things don’t go the way
you thought they should go.
Sometimes what you want isn’t even what you wanted
anyway.

Open doors for girls.
Or better yet,
open doors for anyone and everyone
coming through.

Please.

Your brother will be your best friend,
if you let him.

Don’t pass up chances to go to far-away places
even if it doesn’t seem like the right time.

Marry someone who likes
so many
of the very same things
that
you like.

Please.

You need to trust your heart-gut,
it speaks to you.
It is a true voice
that can keep you
safe from danger
and lead you to great things.

You were made for those great things,
like laughing or changing your corner of the world.

There are dreams in your heart
and you’ll surely forget them sometimes
so circle back
and uncover them
because they are only yours
and they never totally
leave you.

What is the one thing you can
know for sure?
You will always belong
with me, with us,
we’re a belonging family.

Some feelings
are really hard to feel.
Feel them anyway.

Eat things that don’t come from a box or a plastic bag
most of the time,
eat things that come from say…the earth or a tree.

Please.

Smoking really is as bad for you as they say it is
and even though you’ll think you’re invincible
for many
many years,
if you smoke, you will feel it and you will smell.

I want to say
everything in moderation now,
but you come from a long line of people
who don’t do moderation well at all.
So just,
be careful.

Please.

Gossiping is gross,
you’ll feel that in your heart-gut,
I guarantee it.
And anyway,
you can like just about anyone
as long as you lay your self-righteousness aside.

I don’t really care if you’re good at algebra
and that’s not just because
I’m not either,
but because I think your brain’s energy
is better spent elsewhere,
like on words of poems
or other things that have
more potential
to stay in your
heart.

But maybe that’s just me.
Lots of things are just me.
I love most the things that are just you.

Forgive me for all the times
I have and will fail you.
Please.
The truth is, I’m learning
as I go
but that never changes
how much I wish I could
always do right by you.

Grace is what keeps us all
and it’s free
which is the same for its source,
love.
The love of God.
The love from your fellows.
Give it freely and accept it freely
because you are what love is for,
to get it and to give it to others.

Speaking of others,
learn early that there are no “other” people.

We really are all the same.

So get to know people for all that they are,
not just in parts.
Not everyone will look like you
or act like you
or think like you
or believe like you
but it just isn’t your job
to judge all of that.
It’s your job to love.

Keep the best of friends
like a chain around your neck,
soft and light and connected.

Choose forgiveness.

Turn a whole lot of things over
with your sense of humor,
and then learn to be serious
when life or someone you love
asks you to be.

Please.

Wrap yourself up in the deepest thoughts
and feelings
and fears
and dreams
of someone else.
Listen to them.
Really listen.
You’ll find the best parts of yourself
in what you learn through
the stories of others.

What’s yours is his and his and hers and hers and his.
And anyway,
you can always
have too much stuff.
Give it away,
without much thought.

Please.

Be the one that says,
I’ll help!

You don’t have to DO faith perfectly,
but have as much as you can.
You see,
there is a great union at work
between you
and your Maker.
Should you seek it with an open heart,
you will find rest and freedom
from the parts of yourself
that scare you the most.

Do the next right thing. Don’t leap before grace. Let go. Surrender. Float.

Please.

Be kind and mean it.

Get your hands dirty.
Work so hard
that you are bone weary,
often.

Protect. Seek justice. Fiercely fight for the underdog.

Please.

Think about good things,
the good things about you
and the people you love
and your life.
Think more about these things
than you think of anything else.

The truth is always the best option.

You are like a treasure,
the kind a farmer
might find hidden in a field
after miles and miles of
dirt.
You are that priceless
and unexpected
gift
hidden among the weeds,
the thistles and the bugs.
A shocking piece of art,
sitting on an easel in the sun
amidst the corn.

Ignore all the rest
if you must,
it’s not everything anyway;there’s just so much to know.
But please know that last part
the very most.
Everything else follows
the knowledge
of your treasure-worth
anyway.
So know it. Please know it.

Please.

I love you.

Heather writes at The Extraordinary Ordinary

Sunday Giveaway: The Klutz Guide to the Galaxy

2011-05-22T04:00:00.000-07:00

The Klutz Guide to the Galaxy (created by Pat Murphy and the Scientists of Klutz Labs) is a hands on, super fun guide to galactic exploration.

This book allows you and your little scientists to explore the universe without leaving the comfort of your backyard. When the scientists at Klutz Labs tackle outer space, they not only ask questions like “Where’s the Big Dipper” but also “If I lived on planet Mercury, am I already old enough to drive?”

This is not just a book of facts, it allows for hands on exploration - Use the included telescope, red light for night use, sundial, and astrolab to start exploring our great galaxy. I think I had more fun putting together the telescope than my son did. And, not only has the telescope become a fun way for my kids to spy on the stars, but they use it in their pirate adventures (its a spotting scope), and to check if the neighbor children are home down the street. In other words - it really works!

Got a hankering for a little galactic exploration? This is a great resource from Klutz.

Three (3) winners will receive:

· a copy of THE KLUTZ GUIDE TO THE GALAXY Book $19.99 retail

Giveaway is open to US & Canadian mailing addresses only

[Prizing & Sample book courtesy of Klutz]

To be entered, please leave us a comment answering the following question:

"What is your favorite memory that involved being under the stars?"

How to earn additional entries in this giveaway:

1. Follow our blog (publicly) and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).
2. Subscribe to the Mama Memo and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).
3. Blog about the giveaway, and link back here. Post your blog entry before you comment.
4. Add the Mama Manifesto button to your sidebar.
5. Follow us on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway: "Giveaway- Win a copy of "Klutz guide to the galaxy" from @MamaManifesto. Enter at mamamanifesto.com"
6. Become a fan of Mama Manifesto on Facebook by clicking the button on the left.

This giveaway will be closed Saturday at 11 p.m. and the winner will be announced next Sunday!

Mama Love

2011-05-21T04:00:00.000-07:00

... I may be super late to the Pinterest party, but I am completely head over heels smitten with this site. Before Pinterest I was constantly saving photos that I loved from other blogs or sites to my computer so that I could have them for future reference. I think I have about 5,000 photos that serve as home inspiration ideas, party ideas, craft ideas, etc. Now that I have my new BFF Pinterest - I can "pin" those photos to my different online idea boards and they are saved in cyber space. You can share your pins too, and check out other people's pins. Just be warned - surfing through people's pinboards can suck you into a black hole just like blog hopping can. To check out my boards, go here.

... I'm loving Biore's blemish fighting ice cleanser, and especially that it is a perfect fit for my "combo" skin. It is an oil-free blend of lavender, eucalyptus and salicylic acid. Perfect timing to get skin ready for some warm beachy weather.

... This post reminded me of how hard it was back in my days of waiting, hoping, praying for a baby. sigh. I still feel quite heavy-hearted for anyone walking that road.

... I LOVE every single one of these dresses. Who would have thought Lands End would have such cute dresses. And, made out of canvas. Who knew! Note to my husband - my birthday is less than one month away!!!

... My son and I got to spend some time playing with the new Thomas & Friends playset from Mega Bloks. The Thomas and Friends Busy Day at the Quarry set includes Thomas and Mavis, a crane, coal and chute, building blocks and even the storage bucket can be built into the set. It offers countless configurations and can be built up to 4 feet long. For little buddies, this is a hit! This is an ideal toy to toss in the car when headed out of town to visit friends or for a visit to Grandma's house.

... I was thrilled when I saw that JASON now has a new line just for kids. Anytime I can find products that are free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, petroleum and fragrances for my kids, I am excited. JASON has always been a favorite for products for my husband and I, but now they have a line of personal care products for kids called "JASON kids only" - foaming hand soap, bath and shower gel, detangling shampoo and conditioner, extra gentle shampoo and conditioner, and even toothpaste for kids. Watch for it in your natural food stores! JASON also has a line of natural sun care products - "JASON natural sunblocks". It is always perplexing to think about how we protect our skin from cancer by using products that are questionable. With this line, you can rest easy that it is safe to use on your family.

... I am loving all the fun home decoration ideas and projects I get to read about over at The House of Smiths. If you haven't stumbled onto that site yet, you might like it quite a lot. Like, read the whole thing in one sitting, lot.

Easy, Easy, Easy Coconut Milk Soup

2011-05-16T08:26:00.000-07:00

This recipe has become one of my favorite things to eat. It is great on a cold day, warm day, and especially days that you feel like you could use a little comfort food. It is the perfect amount of creamy, and the fresh ginger in it adds just the right spice undertones. You will not be disappointed!

Ingredients

1 ½ quarts homemade or free-range & organic chicken broth

1 ½ cups coconut milk (and cream) - I get cans of this at Whole Foods or TJ’s

1 lb chicken, cut into cubes (or use leftover chicken)

½ tsp cayenne pepper

1 Tbsp grated fresh ginger

2 - 4 Tbsp fresh lime juice

Chopped cilantro for garnish

Simmer all ingredients until meat is cooked through. Serve with cilantro on top. I like to add an extra squeeze of lime on top of my soup. I'm sassy like that.

book winner!

2011-05-15T04:53:00.000-07:00

{{{Congrats, Leslie Flynn!}}}

Shoot us an email by 5/22 to mamagiveaways(at)gmail(dot)com with your prize in the subject line, and we will hook you up!

Keep checking back for more great giveaways!

An Old School Antidote to Screen Time

2011-05-09T10:23:00.000-07:00

Like most parents, my husband and I worry about the barrage of media our three children are exposed to every day, and we struggle to set limits. We don't own a Wii, an Xbox, or any other big video game system. With only one TV in the house and a very short list of interactive websites that the kids are allowed to visit on our shared computer, these are some severely deprived children.

Just ask them.

My oldest daughter, Didi, 9, did manage to save her own money to buy an iPod Touch, but according to her, the half dozen games she owns have gotten boring (but sadly, she needs to come up with the cash herself if she wants to add more.)

Swimming against the tide isn't easy, especially when other parents rave about the benefits of Wii Fit, and even scientific studies claim that video games make kids smarter. I know and I don't care. I don't want one more device in my home that requires parental supervision, period.

So, imagine my surprise when, out of the blue, Didi recently asked for a game that we were willing to buy: an old-fashioned game of Monopoly, which she'd tried out at school. As soon as we broke the seal on the box, the kids transformed into obsessive little real estate tycoons, devoting every spare moment since to mastering the game.

Monopoly has turned out to be the perfect learning activity for my second and third graders. The game demands that they practice their reading and math skills, master new vocabulary like "inheritance" and "utilities," and negotiate peacefully with one another. Not that they care, of course. From the kids' point of view, Monopoly is all about the fantasy: going to jail; buying a railroad; building a hotel; and amassing a small fortune, which they would gladly blow on Cheetos, Pepsi, and video games, if only their parents weren't so mean.

Sunday Giveaway: Help Wanted [moms raising daughters]

2011-05-08T04:00:00.000-07:00

If you have ever looked at the task of raising a daughter as a challenge, this book is for you. Darlene Brock has put together this "action guide" that navigates the 13 jobs that mom must accomplish in the challenging mother-daughter relationship to make a maximum difference in their girl's life.

It is a breath of fresh air for anyone who feels like they may be suffocating under the weight of raising a daughter in this day and age.

You are sure to come away with some morsels of wisdom, as well as a feeling that you are not alone.

We will be giving away one copy of this book to a lucky winner.

To be entered, please leave us a comment answering the following question:

"What is your biggest challenge in your parenting journey right now?"

How to earn additional entries in this giveaway:

1. Follow our blog (publicly) and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).
2. Subscribe to the Mama Memo and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).
3. Blog about the giveaway, and link back here. Post your blog entry before you comment.
4. Add the Mama Manifesto button to your sidebar.
5. Follow us on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway: "Giveaway- Win a copy of "Help Wanted, moms raising daughters" from @MamaManifesto. Enter at mamamanifesto.com"
6. Become a fan of Mama Manifesto on Facebook by clicking the button on the left.

This giveaway will be closed Saturday at 11 p.m. and the winner will be announced next Sunday!

waving the white flag

2011-05-05T09:24:00.000-07:00

I am not sure when it happened. Maybe it was overnight. Maybe it was gradual and I just did not notice. But, clearly, something has happened.

My daughter has become a tween.

I choose that word because the other words that I could write would not be very nice. We have good days, and we have bad days. Or, rather, we have good moments and we have bad moments. And, often these moments can overlap in a way that makes me say, "What the heck is going on here?" I mean, how can you have total peace and bliss in one moment and then the very next you find yourself spiraling into arguing and emotional meltdowns and sass that makes all other sass experienced thus far feel like good manners.

A couple of weeks ago I found myself in my room, hiding. Just trying to collect my thoughts because I seriously did not know how to be in the same room with my daughter without my head exploding. She triggers me in a way that I have never been triggered before. The sulking, the posture, the body language, the resistance, the arguing - when did this happen?

I sat on the edge of my bed and all I could do was pray.

The same words over and over.

"Help me, God. Give me wisdom."

"Help me. Give me wisdom."

"Help me."

Give.

Me.

Wisdom.

So, this is my current reality. I know it is a new season of development and that it is somewhat normal. I know that it has a lot to do with her peers. I know she has hormones changing. I know we are a lot alike and that does not help.

And, I know there are things I can do to be proactive - I can put tighter limits on her time with peers. - Because it is clear that when she spends that much time away she comes home a little crazy. I can take her on dates and try to just be with her so that we have a little bit of currency in our bank of trust and good times. I can pray for her. I can breathe deeply and smile and think about how these are moments where I get to show her unconditional love. I can intentionally seek to carve out space with beautiful girls that will rub off on her in a positive way. And, as always, I can search for tools and knowledge.

I am on a quest right now to find books that will empower me in raising my girl. The stakes are so high. I know that I blow it nearly every day and I pray each night that my mistakes would be covered in grace. But, I want to be intentional in seeking to have the tools before I am in crisis mode and melting down.

One book I have discovered and am devouring is "Help Wanted: moms raising daughters" by

Darlene Brock. Her description of the book is such a great introduction to this great resource:

“This book is about what I learned - about the jobs you need to master, the advice from other women that helped me, as well as some realities about the life and culture we live in that informed my perspective. You can take on the most difficult job in the world – raising daughters – and not only live to tell about it, but smile along the way.”

- Darlene Brock

Isn't that the truth. We wear so many different hats in our day to day lives as moms. Coach. Creative Counselor. Time Manager. Tutor. Counselor. Sex Ed Teacher. Bodyguard. Chauffeur. Chef. Cleaner. FInancial Consultant. Military Strategist. The list goes on and on.

What I love about this book is that it is honest and offers humor, compelling stories and creative solutions to this task that stretches before us. The absolute core of this whole thing for me is - I love my girl. So much. And, I want to honor this role that I get to be in. There is not a day that goes by that I don't think of how thankful I am for the title "mom". It was a title I fought hard for. It did not come to this house easily. And, it will be the most rewarding and most challenging thing I have ever done. And, man, do I ever want to smile along the way.

[We are going to be giving away a copy of this book this weekend! Come back on Sunday to enter the giveaway!!!!]

How to green-clean your floors (with a $100 giveaway!!)

2011-05-02T10:00:00.000-07:00

We are giving away a Libman Freedom Spray Mop on our review blog! The Libman mop is similar to a Swiffer system, except that the pad is washable. And – here’s the kicker – you can use whatever solution you want to clean your floors. So if you want to stay green and chemical-free, you can mix up a vinegar-based solution instead of a store-bought version. Hop on over to this link to read more about it, and to enter to win one yourself, along with a $100 Visa gift-card to use for whatever you like!

Any entries left on this post prior to 5/4/2011 will be transferred to our review blog and entered into the contest.

Mother's Day GIVEAWAY!

2011-05-01T03:49:00.000-07:00

In honor of Mother's Day next weekend we have a wonderful opportunity in store for a lucky reader. One mama will win a fabulous package of SIX fitness, beauty, and mommy products with a prize value of over $300.00!

(((This giveaway is now over, and the winner is Amypugmire. Congrats! Please shoot us an email to claim your prize. )))

mama Love

2011-04-29T15:45:00.000-07:00

... We love this tangible way to show some love to orphans. One look at my son's silly-band clad arm tells me that children across the globe will smile at a little gesture like this.

... I LOVE, love, lurvey, love the Hostess With The Mostess website that I stumbled on this week. It has the most divine photos of events. The perfect place to get your creative juices flowing when planning a party of some sort.

... I love this book list of suggested books for your bookshelf. If you have ever wanted to build a stellar home library, this is a great resource!

... I love all things about Elana's Pantry. The only downside is me wanting to eat my computer screen.

... I am loving getting a little daily reading over at Mom Filter.

... I love that the weather is warming up and my toes have found themselves back where they belong - in my flip flops. My summertime "mom uniform" is cozy jeans, a tank and flip flops. On breezy days, I add a cardigan or hoodie to zip up and keep me warm. And, since my toes are out and about, I am loving the Rapido Fast Dry Lacquer collection of quick-drying sophisticated hues (mochaccino and lira are my faves!). They are long wearing, and are FREE OF DBP's, Toluene, and added Formaldehyde.

... I love Coral Kids' toothpaste. My kids love the berry bubblegum flavor. I love that it uses ionic coral minerals, spearmint oils, echinacea, ginseng, ginkgo, and hydrogen peroxide to clean their teeth RATHER THAN synthetic colors, synthetic flavors, preservatives, sodium lauryl sulfate, and glycerin.

...

The Healthy Home

2011-04-20T14:44:00.000-07:00

Last year, for both environmental and health reasons, I vowed to eliminate plastic water bottles in our home. Seemingly easy, eh? Not for a family on-the-go where summer temps reach triple digits on a daily basis. Alas, I made the switch to reusable stainless steel, which I begrudgingly clean and refill nightly.

This year, my gift to the earth (and my family) was recycling all expired medicines. I spent one morning collecting a large plastic bag of pills and trotted it down to the pharmacy. The pharmacy clerk looked at me like I was crazy.

She told me that I was the first to ask about safely disposing medication and furthermore, the pharmacy can’t accept expired pharmaceuticals. Huh? It was Kaiser, the largest HMO in the nation, and you’re telling me that the pharmacy doesn’t have a disposal system for medication.

Hmm. I wasn’t buying it and after a few more minutes, she remembered seeing something about safely disposing medicine and emerged with a special TakeAway mailer. Really, can’t I just recycle it at the hospital’s pharmacy? The kicker -- she announced, “That will be $5.” Are you kidding me?

While I have clearly not achieved pure natural diva status (yet), I am forever looking for simple solutions to tread a little lighter on the Earth. After reading The Healthy Home by Dr. Myron Mentz and his son Dave Wentz, I’m inspired to do more not only for the earth, but for my family’s health.

"Almost overnight, a toxic world has been built around us, slowly manipulating how we eat, sleep, work, play…how we live."

The Healthy Home is full of practical and simple solutions for reducing health risks posed by everyday products and behaviors of the modern family. Here are a few of my favorite tips for a healthier home:

Bedroom: Make sure your body is wrapped in safe, natural material at least 1/3 of the day (or all night). Buy organic cotton pajamas and bedding.

Kitchen: Buy yourself an air popper and ditch the microwave popcorn. Microwave bags are lined with a Teflon coating, known to release hazardous fumes and particles.

Laundry Room: Use ½ cup white vinegar in place of fabric softner in the washer to reduce static cling and soften clothes. (Note: never mix bleach with vinegar.)

Living Room: Open a window whenever you can to let in fresh, cleansing air. Outside air quality is surprising (and significantly) cleaner than inside air quality.

The Healthy Home is also the source that inspired me to properly dispose of the expired medicines. And, yes, I did buy the $5 mailer. Happy (almost) Earth Day.

Chasing Productivity and Perfection

2011-04-19T14:17:00.000-07:00

As a mom, I'm good at a lot of things, like making cupcakes from scratch, spinning funny bedtime stories, and refusing to buy an expensive video game system. Sadly, I also lack the patience to allow small people to brush and braid my hair, the energy to schedule play dates, the desire to create cheerful family scrapbooks, and other critical skills.

Perhaps one of my biggest failures is my inability to tolerate shopping at Costco. I know I should feel proud to score two 20 oz. bags of gluten-free Blueberry Pomegranate Trail Mix Crunch for only $26.99 to feed my hungry family (at least until I end up throwing away 33 uneaten ounces of it 6 months later) but I don't. The crowds, the congestion around the table where a tired-looking lady presses samples of frozen Gourmet Maine Lobster Cakes into inexplicably eager hands, waiting in the exit line to show my receipt when I just want to get the heck out of there before I detonate -- I can't bear it. I don't do Costco anymore, and I'm at peace. As Lady Gaga says, I was born this way. Love yourself and you're set.

My husband, John, is a different animal. He enjoys the whimsy of going into Costco for hot dogs and buns and coming out with an Artisan Salame Collection and a Solar Powered Attic Fan instead. And so, last week he renewed our lapsed Costco membership in order to buy an electric toothbrush. He also made an unexpected purchase that changed my life.

I must confess that multitasking is another mom skill that doesn't come naturally. I enjoy doing one thing at a time and doing it well. A a result, much has gone undone since I became a parent, including my floors. A friend of mine, novelist Diane Chamberlain, has been raving about Roomba, the vacuum cleaning robot, for months. Diane would rather work on her latest bestseller at Starbucks than clean, and who wouldn't?

I'm trying to write a book myself. Maybe a Roomba would help me keep up with things around here, I told my husband, but we probably never would have made the effort to buy a cleaning robot if John hadn't tripped over one in Costco's appliance aisle.

I love my new Roomba. I even like Costco a little bit by extension. At this very moment, I am vacuuming Gorilla Munch off my kitchen floor, writing and sipping a cappucino at my favorite cafe -- just like Jane Jetson. Now I've asked my husband to keep an eye out for the Scooba 230 Floor Washing Robot on his next Costco run. With all the time I'll save, I'll be able to knock out my own bestseller, host a dinner party and start working on those scrapbooks in no time. Perfection, here I come.

Saltbox NYC Pickpocket Bag winner!

2011-04-11T10:36:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Dana Harrel!

You will receive an email from Saltbox with the details on your new bag!

Happy Day to YOU!!!

Berry Dangerous

2011-04-11T08:46:00.000-07:00

[source: Elana's Pantry]

It's Spring Break in our home which means there is a whole lot more time discussing knock knock jokes and crafting silly "word riddles" like "Berry Dangerous". I am thrilled to have my 1st grader home this whole week and aim to be as intentional as I can with the open days that lie ahead.

On a more serious note - I read a post over at Elana's Pantry today that was incredibly disturbing to me. Elana's Pantry has become part of my daily reading and serves to inspire some great nutritional inspiration every time I visit. If you and your family like strawberries, I am encouraging you to read THIS POST.

I had no idea that our conventionally grown strawberries are grown with the "help" of 53 pesticides. We strive to buy organic berries, but I have been known to put the non-organic berries in my cart when the organic ones cannot be found. I also had no idea how dangerous methyl iodide is. Ugh. When will we learn that it is better to pay up front for our health than on the back end?

Thankfully, there is something we can all do - Fill out this petition that has been created by PAN (Pesticide Action Network in North America) asking the EPA to ban the use of methyl iodide.

One of our Spring Break to do items is to plant our own berry garden. Lets hope for a bountiful harvest!

SUNDAY GIVEAWAY: WordQ+SpeakQ Software

2011-04-10T04:11:00.000-07:00

This week’s giveaway is for an amazing software package called WordQ+SpeakQ (which retails at $279). WordQ+SpeakQ software bundle is a word prediction and speech recognition tool designed for students from 2^nd grade to college, and adults who struggle with writing.

Working alongside standard writing software, WordQ suggests words to the user (WORD PREDICTION) and provides SPOKEN FEEDBACK that allows users to hear their mistakes (i.e., run-on sentences, spelling and punctuation errors). SpeakQ plug-in software enhances WordQ with simple, speech-to-text functionality (SPEECH RECOGNITION).

It is ideal for students learning to write, but also for students with learning disabilities, dyslexia, or autism spectrum disorder. Working alongside standard writing software (like Microsoft Word), WordQ suggests words to the user and provides SPOKEN FEEDBACK that allows users to hear their mistakes (i.e., run-on sentences, spelling and punctuation errors). SpeakQ plug-in software enhances WordQ with simple, speech-to-text functionality.

One particularly inspiring way this software has changed a life is the story of Carly Fleischman, a young woman with autism who credits WordQ for helping her find her voice. “I have learned how to communicate through the help of technology and now I am able to shed some light on the myths and misperceptions about autism, “ she says on her website, carlysvoice.com.

When Carly Fleischmann was a young child, her parents were told she’d probably need to be in an institution. Today, this autistic 16-year old who also has apraxia (that prevents her from speaking orally) communicates on a regular basis with the help of WordQ software.

WordQ was developed at Toronto’s Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital. It was designed specifically for people who struggle with writing, often due to various kinds of learning disabilities. The company’s VP of Learner Development, Neil MacGregor, struggled with his own learning disability. In a world where text driven knowledge and writing are today’s social currency, he knew that many kids are held back from achieving their potential in school, their personal lives, and later – in the workplace, because of their struggles with writing, and set out to create state-of-the-art assistive software now allows users to combine their strengths to compensate for their writing weaknesses.

We have a complete software package of WordQ + SpeakQ to give away to one lucky reader! Enter to win by leaving a comment with how you think you would use this software.

How to earn additional entries in this giveaway:
1. Follow our blog (publicly) and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).
2. Subscribe to the Mama Memo and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).
3. Blog about the giveaway, and link back here. Post your blog entry before you comment.
4. Add the Mama Manifesto button to your sidebar.
5. Follow us on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway: "Giveaway- Win a bottle of R.W. Knudsen sparkling grape Juice from @MamaManifesto. Enter at mamamanifesto.com"
6. Become a fan of Mama Manifesto on Facebook by clicking the button on the left.
This giveaway will be closed Saturday at 11 p.m. and the winner will be announced next Sunday!

Two Products Making A Difference

2011-04-08T08:53:00.001-07:00

A purchase of Punjammis (sari-inspired pajamas) gives financial empowerment to women who are redeeming their lives from the sex trade in India. (My daughter and I got to be models for their latest campaign. Fortunately this gig went better than the last time she tried modeling). This company was founded by friends of mine and I love what they are doing for women in India. I also love their cozy pajamas and I think you will, too.

A new CD of Lullabies from The Damnwells is available on itunes, and supports The Getty Owl Foundation, a newly established non-profit which was set up by the parents of a baby suffering from Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA) is the leading genetic killer of infants and young children. It is a terminal, degenerative disease that results in the loss of nerves in the spinal cord and the weakness of the muscles connected with those nerves. Most children affected have a life expectancy of under two years of age. Researchers estimate that they are as close as only a few years away from finding a treatment and/or cure. The purchase of this CD will help fund research for this disease.

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Bucket List: June 2019

2011-04-05T06:11:00.000-07:00

I recently came to a horrifying realization. My bucket list has a deadline. 8 years and 2 months to be exact.

I was content in thinking that my bucket list could exist existentially and, well, until I kicked the bucket. This gave me all the time in the world to dream, plan and do all the wonderful things I want to do before I head North.

Truth-be-told, a bucket list is a little cliché for me. It’s like choosing books from the Oprah list. Ugh. Rather not. So, up until recently, my “list” only existed in my head and I only talked about it during long car trips when I was bored out of my gored.

Then, as often is the case, a good book made me start thinking more about my life – and a concrete bucket list. While reading a lovely memoir meets cookbook called “Lunch in Paris,” I was reminded of our three-week Euro trip in 2000 – pre-kids. It was heaven. And, it’s also something that we talk about more and more. When should we go back with the kids? What do we want them to see? Which countries and how long? France, of course, tops the list.

This has made me think A LOT about all the things I want to do with my kids before they are grown. In fact, I finally confided my most secret desire to my hubs last week. It went something like this. “Honey, I really, REALLY want an RV. Very soon, I might add.” His response (or question, I should say) went like this: “Really?”

I explained that we already have the fancy bike rack (which is relevant – yes, it is!). You can’t have an RV, unless you have the bike rack on the back, right? That would be a rookie-RV maneuver. It would be such a gift to travel to the National Parks and breath in nature and all its wonder with the kids. He just smiled … didn’t say a word.

That’s when I realized that I do have a bucket list. In fact, “Lunch in Paris” and the random RV sighting unleashed a long list of must-dos. Paris with the kids, an RV to countless national parks, a trip to DC, visits to Presidential libraries, saving for college (and more saving for college).

In only eight years, my son graduates from high school. Eight years isn’t enough time. In fact, the thought of accomplishing it all in eight years is enough to give a pre-menopausal mother a bonafide panic attack. It’s too soon.

Thankfully, there are many things on my list that don’t require a spreadsheet and refinancing the homestead. So, for now, I’ll continue to make homemade dinners and push the H2O consumption. It’s an everyday challenge that leads to my ultimate bucket list “to do” — raising children who eat (and appreciate) real, whole foods. I’m hoping eight years is long enough to accomplish this one!

By the way, the lady going through the drive-thru that looks just like me … she’s my illegitimate half, real twin sister, who relishes making vision board for her friends.

This post was inspired by Lunch in Paris, the April pick for the From Left to Write Book Club. A complimentary copy of this book was provided to me by the publisher. My two cents – Lunch in Paris was a true delight – equal parts romance/sweet memoir and fab-o recipes that brought out the “Frenchy” in me. For the love of cheese!!

SUNDAY GIVEAWAY: Saltbox NYC Pickpocket Bag

2011-04-03T04:00:00.000-07:00

We featured Saltbox NYC last year when we were able to giveaway one of their Getaway bags. I had shared that if I were Oprah and got to do a Favorite Things Show, that this would be one of the items I would give away. I was going to serve the audience Moscow Mules. That was my drink of choice last summer.

This year I have a new favorite bag from Saltbox NYC. If I were Oprah, it would definitely be one of the items I'd be giving away this year. My drink of choice this year? That would have to be a Blueberry Acai Mojito. It is pure joy.

Here is the low-down on the Pickpocket Bag. As always, it is made with their heavy-weight canvas that has been treated to be water-resistant. In "mom-speak" this is fabric that will wear well. Better than well, actually. It looks really good even after a lot of use. Change the look depending on the load you want to carry: keep the zipper around the outside closed for a slimmer look, or unzip to expand the gusset and widen the bottom. Even better, with the 3 different compartments on the front, you have ample storage space that is easy to zip in and out of. I found that I had the perfect fit for my keys, wallet, cell phone, and gum on the outside of the bag for easy access. The interior is lined and has an additional zipper compartment. This bag is the perfect fit for a good book and a laptop! It has accompanied me to many a sports practice over the past couple of weeks.

Mamas, this is a bag to hold onto.

And, one of you is going to get to hold onto your very own Pickpocket Bag. Saltbox NYC is generously giving away one of their Pickpocket Bags in Cinnabar color. They are also offering a special discount code for our readers - Mama30 will get you 30% off site-wide. (Look at all their lovely products!)

This giveaway is going to work a little differently than our usual giveaways. Here is how you are entered to win:

Send an email to studio@saltboxnyc.com with the following in the subject line:

“MamaManifesto SENT ME: Add me to your VIP List.”

In the body of the email simply include your name & email address.

The wonderful added bonus is that you will be on their VIP mailing list and will get alerted to other giveaways done by Saltbox NYC (I stalk them) and discounts offered, as well as new products.

Each email will be worth one entry in this giveaway.

Want some additional good giveaway karma? Like Saltbox NYC on Facebook and send off a tweet about them, and of course link up on your own blog. This company is run by an amazing mama who deserves to have a whole lotta buzz about her products!

The giveaway will be closed next Saturday at 11 PM pacific time, and the winner announced on Sunday.

How To Simplify Your Blog-Reading Habit

2011-03-31T23:20:00.001-07:00

In honor of the Ultimate Blog Party going on this week, we wanted to share our very best advice for others who read blogs as a hobby. I mean, sure, you can just keep on manually typing in url’s, scanning blogs to see if they’ve updated, or going through the blogroll on your own blog. But what if there was a better way? What if you could streamline the way you read blogs? What if you can save time, keep track of what you’ve ready, and only read new content?

These are out best tips for maximizing your blog-reading enjoyment:

1. Subscribe to your blogs in google reader.

First you need to be signed in to google. If you don’t have an account, you can create one in a few minutes. Whenever you visit a blog that you would like to read regularly, look for the “subscribe” button. It usually looks something like this:

When you hit that subscribe button on a favorite blog, it will take you to a page that lets you choose how you would like to subscribe. It might look something like this:

From there, you choose the button for the “reader” (the service that will keep track of your subscriptions). I definitely recommend google, because of the feature I will talk about next. But the other options are fine, too.

If you choose google, it will then take you to a page that looks like this:

Choose the google reader option. Once you’ve added a couple of blogs, you can then go directly to www.google.com/reader to read all of your blogs in one place. The beauty of the reader is that it pulls the blog posts from the blogs you love and puts them in chronological order. You can choose if you want it to show the oldest posts first, or the newest posts first. Then, as you scroll down and read, it “remembers” what you have passed and takes it off the list, So the next time you visit google reader, it will only show blog posts that you’ve not yet read. Get it? No more visiting blogs to see if they’ve updated only to see the same ole’ post that was up the last five times you checked. Google reader has your back.

For example, here’s a little snippet from my reader today. (This is just a small little portion. There are a lot of blogs in my reader.)

Okay, once you’ve gotten all the blogs you frequent into your subscription list, it’s time to add the magic of the Next button.

2. Put the “Next ” button on your browser.

Oh, how I love the Next button. See, reading blogs in google reader is efficient, but it’s a little cold. You miss the full experience of seeing the post where it was meant to be. It’s kind of like eating take-out instead of eating in the restaurant. You miss the ambience. It also makes it harder to comment. So the Next button eliminates the need to read blogs in google reader (even though it is a function of google reader).

You can install the button by clicking here, but make sure you’ve established a google reader account first. Then, hit the “goodies” tab and scroll down until you see the Next bookmarklet. Click and drack it up to your toolbar, and it should add the button there.

Now takes you to the next blog in your subscription with new content. It takes you straight to the blog page instead of to google reader. IT IS MAGIC. And then, when you’ve read that page, and hopefully commented so that blogger’s fragile self-esteem can remain intact, you can just hit the button again and go to the next blog. (Note: this is totally different from the “Next Blog” button that appears on the top of a blogspot blog. That thing takes you to random blogs, not blogs of your choosing.) This is how the button looks, all nice and nestled into my firefox browser:

I really can’t tell you how much I love this thing. If my browser were a remote control, this would be the button with all of the text rubbed off from using it so much.

3. Add the Alexa toolbar to your browser.

The last tip is really more self-serving, but if you read a lot of blogs, you should add Alexa to your toolbar. Alexa is one of the main ways a blog’s popularity is counter. It’s kind of like the Nielson Ratings for blogs. If you recall, back in the olden days, only the Nielson families contributed to television ratings. And so it goes with blogs – only those people who have downloaded the Alexa toolbar are counted in a blog’s Alexa rating. So, if you want to “pay it forward” to the blogs you read, I would recommend it. It’s a quick and simple download and you won’t even notice you have it. It gives you an option of where to place it, and you can choose to put it down on the bottom of your browser. See the little text at the bottom of the page? That’s it.

If you have firefox and you want to download it as a statusbar, you can click below.

Or, if you use internet explorer, you can download it here.

Those are my three big tips. If you’ve stumbled over here for the Ultimate Blog Party link-up, I’m guessing you might read a lot of blogs, too. Do you have any other tips or tricks for blog-reading?

The Case Against Homework

2011-03-30T11:34:00.000-07:00

I have a confession. I am really not a fan of homework for kindergarten. I LOVE my son’s teacher. I mean, seriously, she is amazing – and the homework thing is a school-wide choice. I also love the public school that he attends. But I don’t love the fact that every week, he comes home with a packet of 6-10 worksheets that require me to hover over him to complete.

Typically he can do it himself, but lately the math has been really hard. They are adding numbers into the teens now. Today he had to count by fives to fill in the blanks as such:

| 5 | 10 | 15 | 20 | ___ | ___ |

Counting by fives? I swear, I think when I was in preschool we painted, made macaroni necklaces, and learning the lyrics to “This Land Is Your Land”.

But even the worksheets that are easy are still laborious, because he has been at school all day long, and he’s just DONE. And tired. And wants to play with his siblings and relax and BE SIX YEARS OLD. And I want that for him, too, but instead I have to keep redirecting him back to the table to finish his worksheets.

I am a huge proponent of education. I’m a college professor. My parents were college professors (they are both still in academia, but now in administrative roles). I really want my kids to love learning, to develop study skills, and to succeed in school.

But I don’t want them to have homework in kindergarten. Or maybe even for a few years after that.

I’ve usually kept these thoughts to myself, because I feel like people generally hold the belief that there is a value to the way homework develops study habits. But I was a little shocked (and relieved?) to see that most of the commenter’s on Scary Mommy’s blog post on the subject were in agreement – and many of them were teachers themselves. Now, obviously, comments on a blog post are not necessarily a reflection of academic research . . . but apparently there is solid research that says that homework in the early grades does not actually determine study skills for later grades. Which begs the question, why are schools still giving it? And why does it seem to be increasing every year?

I don’t believe that I had homework until about 5th grade. And I did okay in high school. And yes, I realize that sentence just pushed me into cranky-old-lady territory.

I admit, there is some personal bias in my anti-homework views. Just getting Jafta to complete his is such a battle, that I really cringe at the thought of this for all four of my kids in a few years. But I also think that at the public school my kids are attending, the day is long enough for them to complete everything they need to learn at school. I feel like when I pick them up, I want it to be family time. And I want there to be time for them to be involved in enriching activities like music lessons or sports, I hear so many friends talk about how the nightly homework takes up a big portion of their evening. Do kids really need to be doing homework EVERY NIGHT when they have spent 6-8 hours in school all day? Am I the only one who thinks this is excessive?

Anyways, I am curious to hear your thoughts. A few of the commenters at Scary Mommy said that they actually refused to have their kids do it, and spoke with administrators and teachers at the beginning of the year, informing them their kids would not turn it in. This seems absolutely crazy to me – I am such a people-pleaser, and I cannot imagine being “that mom” and what the school staff would think of me (shudder). Jafta always turns in his completed homework, despite how much I despise it. But at the same time, I wonder what would really happen if we just stopped doing it? Would it affect his learning? Or would it just make our afternoons a lot more peaceful?

What do you think about homework?

Knudsen Sparkling Grape Juice Winner

2011-03-28T11:00:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Virginia, Tabathia B, and Vickers!

Shoot us an email by 4/10 to mamagiveaways(at)gmail(dot)com with your prize in the subject line, and we'll hook you up!

Talk Back: 'The Orphan Seat'

2011-03-24T03:57:00.000-07:00

I'll admit, when I first heard the AAP's new recommendation that babies should ride in rear-facing car seats until age 2, I winced at the thought. Most all of my kids- as babies- have hated car rides, rear-facing seats being a big contributing factor!

But, I'm also a huge stickler for car seat safety... just ask my husband how many times I've double and triple-checked his install jobs! So this Chicago Tribune article really got my attention.

"Each step "up" is actually a step down in terms of the protection provided."

WOW. I had never thought of it in those terms. I have always anxiously awaited the approach of the first birthday. The flip of the car seat. A step UP! And yet, a step down in protection.

My seven-month-old hates the car more than the others did. Maybe I'm not as anxious to make the step "up" this time.

photo source

***

What are your thoughts on the new infant seat recommendation?

School: The Ultimate Label Maker

2011-03-22T01:00:00.000-07:00

Last week, two envelopes arrived in the mail from of our school district, one addressed "to the parents of" my third-grade son, Gobez, and one "to the parents of" my third-grade daughter, Didi. My chest tightened with dread. With experience I've learned that such envelopes often mean, We've made an important decision about your child's educational program. By law we are required to notify you, but we don't have the time or resources to answer any questions, so we are not enclosing the name or number of a contact person. Thank you.

I opened my son's letter first: he had tested into the district's Gifted and Talented Education Program (GATE.) Okay, so this was good news -- but the letter went on to explain that the GATE program consists primarily of differentiated instruction in the classroom whenever possible/as determined by the individual teacher, or enrollment in optional after school courses available through the rec department. In other words, the district has no money to lavish on educating the "gifted."

I sighed as I turned to Didi's letter, for I knew what it would say: she was not chosen for GATE. She is a special education student because of dyslexia, and though she participates (and excels) in a regular classroom, she is pulled out for 25 minutes per day for one-on-one reading instruction. She's also entitled to special classroom accommodations, including extra time on written tests and a separate room for test-taking to limit distractions. Did she receive those special accommodations on GATE testing day? Since there isn't really a gifted program, only the GATE label, it seemed pointless to inquire.

Even though Gobez and Didi attend the same grade, they aren't twins or even biological siblings. We adopted Gobez at the age of 4 from Ethiopia. Didi arrived at age 5 from India, in the middle of the school year, and so we opted to wait until the following fall to enroll her in kindergarten, when Gobez would also be starting. It was the right decision, though she would have preferred to be a year ahead of her brother in school, thereby cementing her alpha dog status. It's been extremely painful for her to struggle so profoundly with reading while her younger brother just breezes along with the same material. If Didi were to know the outcome of the GATE test, she would be devastated.

My husband and I have decided not to tell either of the kids their test results-- and I was happy to learn from my son's teacher that many parents choose not to reveal "GATE" status to their children. The information will simply become part of his academic file, a positive label that teachers attach to his name. Ever since Gobez started school, we've been worried about the teachers pegging him as a future pro athlete. His kindergarten teacher has even joked that she is saving his autograph to sell on eBay when he makes it big. The black male athlete is a powerful cultural stereotype; the black male scholar is not. Perhaps the "gifted" label will encourage his teachers to see him more clearly as the well-rounded child that he is, a boy with a keen math mind and a powerful drop kick. As his mom, I believe his greatest gifts are his relentlessly cheerful disposition, his energy, and his compassion. I marvel at these strengths of his every day.

The list of talented, accomplished people with dyslexia is long-- Leonardo Da Vinci, Pablo Picasso, Whoopi Goldberg, Jim Davis, Bill Gates -- but my daughter wears the label heavily at school. Her peers and probably many of her teachers don't know that researchers at the Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity believe this learning difference to be "a hidden source of great abilities." Like so many with dyslexia, Didi is an unusually talented artist, a creative problem solver, and a startlingly hard worker. Though she is only nine, I regularly turn to my daughter for advice on everything from decorating to fixing broken household items, for her mind works in nimble, inventive ways that mine does not.

As parents, we cannot help but want the best for our children. We want them to excel in school, to be labeled by the powers-that-be as "good" and "gifted," but maybe the gifts that will bring them the most success in life cannot be captured in a classroom or quantified on a standardized test. In the words of another famous dyslexic, Albert Einstein, "Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will spend its whole life thinking it is stupid."

SUNDAY GIVEAWAY: Knudsen's Sparkling Concord Grape Juice

2011-03-20T04:00:00.000-07:00

We are big fans of the R.W. Knudsen product line. In 1961 Russel W. Knudsen and his family began bottling fruit juices at their organic grape vineyard in Paradise, Calif. This was a time when synthetic pesticides and herbicides use was soaring on conventional farms, and beverages were increasingly made with artificial ingredients. But, Knudsen was singularly committed to producing the finest, healthiest juices available.

We LOVE that all their products are still made using 100 percent natural ingredients, without any added sugar, preservatives or artificial colors.

Behind the scenes, R.W. Knudsen Family is committed to sustainability, organic practices, waste reduction and environmental stewardship. In 1997, its processing facility became the first certified organic processing facility in the U.S. To minimize its environmental footprint, the company uses clean, renewable energy sources at their facility.

This is a company we get excited to promote! I love their sparkling essence drinks, and my kids love their sensible sippers (half water, half juice).

In celebration of 50 Years in business, and doing business well, we are offering a super fun giveaway from the Knudsen family to our Mama Manifesto family. They are going to give 12 readers a bottle of their special edition grape juice. It tastes like a picnic! You will love it.

The Knudsen family is also giving away a week of vacation time in NAPA in their "Grape Escape" giveaway. Go here to enter!

I'm entering myself. And my hubby. And, making my sister enter herself. And her hubby. A week in Napa sounds like heaven.

I have a ton of respect for people who choose to invest their time and resources in cultivating food that will nourish. I know the farming industry is a tough one and I love when I see companies that stand behind standards like the Knudsen family has. Remember that we vote every time we spend our money at a grocery store. Spend well, y'all. Lets show the industry that we value healthy food.

Enter to win by leaving a comment:

How to earn additional entries in this giveaway:

1. Follow our blog (publicly) and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).

2. Subscribe to the Mama Memo and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).

3. Blog about the giveaway, and link back here. Post your blog entry before you comment.

4. Add the Mama Manifesto button to your sidebar.

5. Follow us on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway: "Giveaway- Win a bottle of R.W. Knudsen sparkling grape Juice from @MamaManifesto. Enter at mamamanifesto.com"

6. Become a fan of Mama Manifesto on Facebook by clicking the button on the left.
This giveaway will be closed Saturday at 11 p.m. and the winner will be announced next Sunday!

Cheap, Healthy Options for Drive-Thru Desperation

2011-03-17T12:02:00.000-07:00

It happens to the best of us. We are running late, or have an awkward window between pickups, or don’t have enough groceries to pack an adequate lunch for the day at the park. And so, with our heads hung it shame, we take our families through the dreaded fast food drive-thru.

Okay, maybe the shame is my own issue. I really do try to feed my kids healthy, but I am also always on the go. I hate the idea of fast-food, but I have found a few options where I can feed my family (relatively) healthy fast food without breaking the bank. To do this, though, you must adhere to two rules:

1) No “happy meals”. They are never the cheapest option and they are rarely that healthy, either.
2) No soft drinks. Again, unnecessary calories and money, when water will do.
Both of these rules may be met with whining and crying from your children . . . but fortunately they aren’t the ones in charge here.

These are a few of the drive-thru options that we’ve been using in those moments of deperation. They are smaller entrees, so I usually either plan on a healthy snack in a few hours (i.e. a smoothie). Or if the drive-thru act is premeditated, I might through some apples and carrots in my bag on the way out the door, to round out the meal.

Del Taco

Del Taco has a new value bean & cheese burrito for only $49. Their beans are slow-cooked and lard-free, and the burrito is 320 calories. I can feed myself and the kids for under $5.

McDonalds

Forget the fried and processed chicken nuggets at McDonalds. The snack wrap can be ordered with grilled chicken and is only 260 calories and $1.29. A side of apples is available for $99.

Starbucks

There are a few heavenly drive-thru Starbucks near me, and their Spinach, Feta, and Egg White Wrap is full of protein and only 280 calories. At $3.50, it’s also cheaper than their packaged sandwiched.

Taco Bell

I love Taco Bell's Fresco menu and the fact that you can get almost anything on the whole menu "Fresco-style”, which means that it is topped with fresh salsa instead of cheese. A chicken soft taco ordered this way is only 170 calories. If I order two per family member, I can feed our family of 6 for $10.68.

How about you? Do you have issues with going through the drive-thru? Have you found any healthy options for your family?

Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti

2011-03-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

Need a dose of yummy with your coffee? Make this biscotti! So easy and yet blissfully delicious. Need even more of a decadent treat? Drizzle them with some white chocolate or even better, dip the suckers right in a pool of white chocolate bliss so that they are coated with the good stuff at both ends.

And THAT'S how you enjoy your morning cup of coffee or your afternoon tea! Mmmm! Mmmmm!

Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti
(Prep Time: 15 minutes/Total Time: 75 minutes. Yields 14 - 16 biscotti.)
Ingredients
1/4 cup light olive oil
3/4 cup white sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
1 tablespoon orange zest
2 eggs
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1 1/2 cups unsalted pistachio nuts (or slivered almonds)

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees F (150 degrees C).

In a large bowl, mix together oil and sugar until well blended. Mix in the vanilla and almond extracts, and zest then beat in the eggs. Combine flour, salt, and baking powder; gradually stir into egg mixture. Mix in cranberries and nuts by hand.

Divide dough in half. Form two logs (12x2 inches) on a cookie sheet that has been lined with parchment paper. Dough may be sticky; wet hands with cool water to handle dough more easily.

Bake for 35 minutes in the preheated oven, or until logs are light brown. Remove from oven, cover with clean kitchen towels and set aside to cool for 10 minutes. Reduce oven heat to 275 degrees F.

Cut logs on diagonal into 3/4 inch thick slices. (lean into biscotti with a large knife, do not saw, to get nice even pieces.) Lay on sides on parchment covered cookie sheet. Bake approximately 8 to 10 minutes, or until dry; cool.

Cari Snell is a mom, wife, caterer (http://www.sweettreatcatering.com/) and the editor and recipe wrangler of Can I get the Recipe? An online source providing weekly printable recipes, shopping lists, great giveaways and more.

Check out an abundance of family friendly recipes at http://www.canigettherecipe.com/

Mama Love: more baby gear!

2011-03-12T04:35:00.000-08:00

Babywearing is pretty new to me, and I recently had the pleasure of reviewing the Moby Wrap.

This is really a great wrap! It is a long, wide piece of durable fabric that you wrap over both shoulders, making for a super comfortable fit for both mom & baby. My newborn feels perfectly secure and happy in it. There are no buckles, snaps or other fasteners, and it's very easy to figure out how to wear.

There are many reasons to love babywearing, but for me it is all about having two free hands while chasing three other little ones! The Moby Wrap is ideal for this. I also love how soft the fabric is, and that there is an organic collection. Plus, you can't beat machine washable baby gear! I'm a big fan.

*****

We love Bumbleride and are excited to pass along the announcement of their latest edition coming this Spring, the "Movement Edition"!

This collection- featuring water-resistant sport fabrics and SPF 45 sun canopies- was designed for the active, action/sports lifestyle and has a very unique look compared to other strollers in the industry. Inspired by Southern California’s surf and skate culture, the Movement Edition strives to offer what action sports parents have long been waiting for- cool functional products suited to their lifestyle that make their lives easier with baby.

The Movement Edition will be shipping in April and featured in two colors- Jet, a sleek black; and Fog, a warm grey. It will be fitted on the Indie (all-terrain model), Indie Twin (double all-terrain model) and Flite (lightweight/umbrella model). FUN!

How To Waste A Weeknight`

2011-03-10T04:53:00.000-08:00

Winter nights can be a challenge. We are anxiously awaiting the time change and some warmer weather, so we can get back to playing outside in the evenings. In the meantime, we go to the mall. A lot.

Our typical routine:

Carousel Rides ($1 each)

Letting the kids pound on computers in the Mac store (free)

Mini cones at the Ruby’s counter ($1 each)

If we are feeling particularly generous, we might stop by Sees Candy for some free samples.

How do you waste a weeknight?

Finding Our Thing

2011-03-09T10:45:00.001-08:00

When I was writing out the story of my relationship with Mark last week, I had a wave of nostalgia for the couple we once were. It was weird looking through old photos and remembering our life before kids. So much of our relationship, and even our initial attraction to one another, was based on a sense of adventure. We loved to travel, to get out in the world, and to experience different things. We were active and spontaneous. If I’m honest, I would even say that the number of our passport stamps was a part of our shared identity. I used to joke that if I didn’t drink a Fanta out of a glass bottle at least twice a year, that I would die a little inside.

Once kids came along, obviously our lifestyle changed. It’s hard to be spontaneous when your entourage requires sippy cups, booster seats, and portable cribs. Travelling at this stage is more work than it is worth, and quite a bit pricier, too. Mark and I don’t get to be as adventurous as we once were. And while I wouldn’t change a thing and love my kids to pieces, I think it’s also important to recognize that we need to find new activities that bond us together, both as a couple and as a family. We need to find a new “thing”. Preferably a thing that is toddler-friendly. And it’s probably not going to be international travel, huh?

We are still hoping that kayaking can be one of our things, but it hasn’t really been kayaking weather. Today we decided to give geo-caching a try. It’s adventurous . . . in a lame, family-friendly sort of way. Although I feel this would be a much more attractive activity if it had a less dorky name. Can we change it to “rugged urban reciprocal treasure hunting” or something? Just so we don’t sound like total geeks?

Our first geocaching foray was not so great. We went out armed with an iphone app on a non-GPS phone. We could see a blinking dot where we were standing, and a blinking dot where the geocache was hidden. We had no compass or directions to tell us which direction that elusive dot was in relation to where we were standing. So I spent a good hour just running in circles trying to figure out how to align myself with the dot, which never happened.

We may have built the expectations up too high, because the kids were bent on finding all kinds of buried toys, and all that was really happening was two adults arguing over whether or not there was a way to auto-refresh our google maps while the kids whined about being bored and tried to run through mud puddles. At some point I tweeted:

And really, that’s kind of what the day boiled down to. Finally, we were able to find a geocache that was hidden on a bridge, so we didn’t have to rely on a blinking directionless dot. It was full of a few real and fake coins, which Jafta loved – he called it his pirate’s booty. The trinkets we brought to exchange wouldn’t fit into the rusted Altoid tin, so we ended up leaving the $5 bill I had in my pocket. Mark was a bit annoyed that we basically bought fifty cents and a couple plastic coins for $5, but I reminded him that it was all about the experience. Those two hours of searching and five tantrums along the way were SO WORTH IT!

Despite our day, we aren’t giving up on the idea of geocaching. It was still great to get out, and to have the dangling carrot of a treasure to keep Princess India moving. Mark has his eyes set on a directional GPS toy that will make the searching a bit easier. I have a feeling he will be buying it tomorrow.

Incidentally, this week a friend of mine celebrated her 40th birthday at a roller rink. And this guy and his wife showed up to bring the Xanadu.

She had on a very sparkly skirted leotard under that trenchcoat. I must confess, we had a little chuckle at their expense, and I was certainly not the only one trying to steal a picture of Big Red with my iphone. But then I thought, you know what? GOOD FOR THEM. They’re getting out there, they are active and staying fit, and they have a thing. A thing that they obviously love, that they are doing together.

I’m hoping we find our new thing. And I’m really hoping it isn’t competitive roller skating.

Happy International Women's Day

2011-03-08T11:34:00.001-08:00

Today in the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day, dedicated to promoting opportunity and empowerment for women around the the world.

Have you seen the provocative PSA starring Daniel Craig and voiced by Dame Judi Dench designed to raise awareness about the day? It makes me love the James Bond actor just a little bit more. What's your reaction?

Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup

2011-03-08T00:01:00.000-08:00

I love my slow cooker. Love, love, love my slow cooker! Especially when all I have to do is throw everything in the pot, turn it on and walk away.

This recipe is inspired by cabbage rolls and it is absolutely delicious. Serve it with a little crusty bread, grated cheese or even a dollop of sour cream for a nutritious abd filling meal.

Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup
(Prep Time: 15 minutes/Total Time: 8 - 10 hours. Serves 6 -8)

Ingredients:
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, diced
3/4 cup uncookerd parboiled long grained white rice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
3 cups chickeen stock
1 28 ounce canned tomatoes, with juices (I use San Marzano)
1 10 ounce can condensed tomato soup, undiluted
4 cups packaged coleslaw mix or chopped kale or bok choy (any type of green cabbage like veg!)
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Directions:
In a medium fry pan, cook ground beef until done. Place beef in the slow cooker and add all other ingredients except for the parsley.

Cook on low for 8 - 10 hours or high for 4 - 6 hours until hot and bubbly. Before serving, stir in parsley.

Check out an abundance of family friendly recipes at http://www.canigettherecipe.com/

SUNDAY GIVEAWAY: TurboTax

2011-03-06T04:34:00.000-08:00

We're all about products that make our busy lives easier, and TurboTax 2010 is a perfect example of that. TurboTax- the #1-rated, best-selling tax software from Intuit Inc.- makes tax preparation easier than ever by providing:

Greater Ease and Accuracy: Automatically transfer essential tax information from last year's return and from hundreds of thousands of employers and financial institutions. Instantly transfer data and simply confirm it's correct.

Customized Guidance and Recommendations: Unique GPS feature provides additional guidance and recommendations, based on each customer's individual tax situation. TurboTax recommends the deductions and credits that will help customers get their maximum refund.

Better, Faster Answers: Customers have easy ways to get answers to their questions, when and how they need them, including instant answers from other TurboTax users and tax experts online via the TurboTax Live Community.

We are giving away three online credits, redeemable at TurboTax.com and good for one free federal + state preparation and e-file with TurboTax Premier Online 2010.

Enter to win by leaving a comment answering the question below:

Do you prepare your own taxes?

How to earn additional entries in this giveaway:

1. Follow our blog (publicly) and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).

2. Subscribe to the Mama Memo and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).

3. Blog about the giveaway, and link back here. Post your blog entry before you comment.

4. Add the Mama Manifesto button to your sidebar.

5. Follow us on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway: "Giveaway- Win a TurboTax online credit from @MamaManifesto. Enter at mamamanifesto.com"

6. Become a fan of Mama Manifesto on Facebook by clicking the button on the left.

This giveaway will be closed Saturday at 11 p.m. and the winner will be announced next Sunday!

Congratulations to the winner of last week's giveway:
{{{Diana Costello}}}

Shoot us an email by 3/13 to mamagiveaways(at)gmail(dot)com with your prize in the subject line, and we'll hook you up!

A Second Chance to win a Copy of MAMALITA: An Adoption Memoir

2011-03-01T03:50:00.000-08:00

Mama Manifesto recently awarded copies of Mamalita: An Adoption Memoir by Jessica O'Dwyer to two lucky readers. If you missed out on that giveway, here's another chance to win. I'm hosting a drawing this week at my personal blog, and I have two more copies to give away courtesy of the author, who even autographed them during a recent appearance at a local library.

To enter, please stop by my blog, Whatever Things Are True: the Good, the Bad and the Beautiful in the World of International Adoption. The contest closes Sunday, March 6.

If you'd like to know a little bit more about Mamalita, you can visit Jessica O'Dwyer's blog or check out the book trailer:

Project Life Giveaway

2011-02-28T20:32:00.000-08:00

I recently shared how much I love Becky Higgins' Project Life kits.

Well, the amazing Becky is giving away a kit every day this week!

Go! Go now and enter!!! Click here.

I would love for you to win.

SUNDAY GIVEAWAY: Steri-Bottle

2011-02-27T04:00:00.000-08:00

Okay, Mamas, this week's giveaway is perfect for those of you with wee-ones who are still in the baby bottle phase.

Imagine the convenience of disposable diapers, but with baby bottles. Steri-bottle is a disposable bottle that requires no washing and no sterilizing. Just open the box, fill, feed, and throw away.

These one-of-a-kind disposable bottles offer unmatched convenience that is perfect for traveling. Think of how many times you have been on the go and forgotten about that baby bottle that you used on the flight or in the car or at the restaurant that has still be sitting in your diaper bag. Festering and turning into a science experiment gone wrong. These bottles are meant to take and toss. Of course, the eco-friendly side of me wants to urge us all to use bottles that are not single use most often. But, for those times when ease is the necessity, we can at least rest assured in these disposable bottles being BPA free and 100% recyclable!

Each bottle is ready to use, BPA-free, phthalate free, 100 % recyclable, and made in the USA!

5-pack: $5.49
10-pack: $9.99

At about $1 per bottle, that is not bad.

Steri-bottle is going to share the love with our readers and are offering two lucky mamas a 10 count box of their choice (medium or fast flow).

Enter to win by leaving a comment answering the question below:

What is your best tip for traveling with babies or kids?

How to earn additional entries in this giveaway:

1. Follow our blog (publicly) and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).

2. Subscribe to the Mama Memo and leave another comment (or let us know if you already are).

3. Blog about the giveaway, and link back here. Post your blog entry before you comment.

4. Add the Mama Manifesto button to your sidebar.

5. Follow us on Twitter and Tweet about this giveaway: "Giveaway- Win steri-bottle pack from @MamaManifesto. Enter at mamamanifesto.com"

6. Become a fan of Mama Manifesto on Facebook by clicking the button on the left.

This giveaway will be closed Saturday at 11 p.m. and the winner will be announced next Sunday!

Congratulations to the winners of last week's giveway:

Jodie
Lauren
Katie
Jackie
Kelly K.

Shoot us an email by 3/13 to mamagiveaways(at)gmail(dot)com with your prize in the subject line, and we'll hook you up!

Mama Love

2011-02-26T10:46:00.000-08:00

... I love the cozy new "slippers" from Snoozies. Picture this - a cozy slipper that is crossed with a sock. You have the ability to wash them like a sock (perfect for the busy mama who may step right in that spilled juice!), but they have a sherpa lining and the slip on comfort of a slipper. The anti-slip soles keep your feet on the floor, even when it is a slippery surface. Happy feet make for happier mamas.

... We have loved getting to test out a fun and educational game: Synonyms. It is a clever word game that has your mind spinning and racing as you search your "mental vault" for vocabulary. This is the perfect multi-tasking game for kids and teens who need some prodding to work on their vocabulary for future college test prep. It was created by parents who wanted to help their own kids work on their vocabulary. Honestly, it is challenging! I was reminded that my mental muscles are out of shape and that more time should be spent exercising my brain. I was surprised by how many words I learned while playing this game.

... We love the Ignite stroller from The First Years. Whoever designed this stroller really got it: ample storage (basket and console) for parents - check; taller handles that fit parents comfortably - check; a stroller that maneuvers like a stroller should (not like the funky shopping carts with the one wheel that turns on it's own and makes it impossible to go left when you are steering to the left) - check; shade canopy for sunny days - check; one hand folding - check; euro design on a frugal mama budget - check! This is an umbrella stroller to love.

... You know I love real food. I was absolutely shocked when I learned that tomatoes were being cross with fish (flounder) in a the bio-engineering process. I know we all like juicy tomatoes, but that is just sick and wrong! I am loving the packaged stewed tomatoes from Pomi. Pomi is a BPA free tomato product straight from Italy. Packaged in a Tetra Pak, the tomatoes are kept extremely fresh and have a long shelf life, bringing us the straight off the vine taste we love, but can’t necessarily obtain during the winter. Pomi has no preservatives, added water, artificial flavor, additives, or citric acid. Pomi watches the process from the seed (non genetically modified), to harvest (pesticide free), and packaging (which is recyclable). Hands down, Pomi is the healthiest and safest tomato product on the market this winter!

The Memory Keeper

2011-02-21T20:15:00.000-08:00

In my former life (pre-kids), I was a scrap-booker. I made scrapbooks all through high school, college and early married life. I am an avid journaler and love the process of recording life to look back on. I also have a bit of a paper obsession. I love, love, love the school supplies section of the store. Some gals like to get their hair done as a nice kid-free treat. Me? - You just set me free to wander a good stationary section and school supplies and I am happy. Scrapbooking was always a way for me to play with pretty paper.

When I was pregnant with my first child, I had very grand visions of creating this beautiful scrap book of my motherhood experience and her childhood. I could just see her flipping through all those pages, recounting the memories that I had joyfully written out.

I can hear you chuckling. You know, don't you.

Yes, I started her scrapbook. It is lovely. She loves to look through the pages of her book.

All 6 months worth of pages.

She is seven years old. Ugh. I know.

And then, there is child number 2. He has a book, but it has yet to be started.

He is turning five next week.

But, in all honesty - I have not given up on the idea of this happening for them. I have things I want them to know about their childhood and I have photos that are way too precious to just sit in my computer's hard drive.

I just needed a better system. The traditional scrapbooking program was definitely not working for me.

I recently stumbled on Becky Higgins' blog. I think I read through her entire blog in one sitting. My eyes were burning, but I had a serious blog crush on this amazing mom who exudes creativity and killer style. [Her blog is seriously amazing and you must visit and check out all her fabulous ideas.] One of her greatest ideas is her Project Life spin on scrapbooking. It is like Scrapbooking for Dummies. It is definitely a method for those of us who want to be able to integrate photos with cute paper, and a journaling element, but may not have the time or space to scrapbook the way we used to.

The kits come with a very cool designer 3 ring 12 x 12 inch album. You can choose from the Amber (more girlie version, but my fave!) or Turquoise kits (also amazing). It also includes 54 divided photo pocket pages for horizontal pictures and the pre-cut journaling and title cards, hundreds of these cards, and hundreds of day and number stickers, and a date stamp for labeling photos and the journaling cards. Everything is organized in cute little card holders so that it all stays nice and neat.

How lovely is this kit? ...

[12 x 12 sheets of paper]

[journaling cards - also perfect for wee love notes, or gift tags]

[date cards to highlight specific dates]

[the kit in its entirety]

(all photos above are of the amber edition. to see the turquoise edition, go here. It is a more neutral and linear design. I really like it too, I am just a total sucker for the bohemian style of the amber edition.)

I was beyond excited when Becky sent me these Project Life kits to play with. Oh, and play I did. I have already started two albums for my kids. They are going to be their "School Years" albums, and we are going to create a few pages for each grade, starting with Preschool and leading up to 12th grade. Keeping it simple over here, people. Because, unfortunately, if we do not keep it simple over here, it will not happen! I am so excited to do this with my kids. I will do the bulk of it, I know. But, my daughter in particular, is in this phase where she is all about writing - making lists, creating stories, and leaving notes. She will love sharing a few tid bits about her school years. (And, if you want to create a very simple School Years scrapbook with your kiddo, Becky has already created some simple yearbook templates just for this... didn't I tell you that she is amazing! They are found here, in her FREE STUFF link. Look on the right side of that page for all the free stuff. )

Aside from the albums I have started, over the past two weeks, I have used the Project Life supplies in a variety of FUN ways:

[wine tags]

[gift tag for a friend]

[gift tag for a new couple]

[a tag for a gratitude box I made for 2 friends who just got married!]

[a pretty frame for a new baby's nursery]

[a gift for a friend expecting a new baby - I put together an album for her baby girl's first year. I set up a few pages ahead of time for her to just slide photos into, and fill out a couple of journaling cards with some anecdotal notes]

I have organized the smaller elements and cards from the two kits in a Trader Joe's clementines box. Fancy, I know. It was just the perfect fit and I can keep it all stashed for impromptu projects, as well as while working on our school years kits.

[the left side of the box has the "amber elements" and the right side has the "turquoise elements"]

This is a quote I love:

"Gratitude is the heart's memory."

-french proverb

Regardless of what we all choose to do with the photos that represent the memories that we have been blessed to experience - we can all walk forward with gratitude. I feel so blessed to have walked this road with my family. With the children that I was told I probably would not be able to have. With a husband that is truly my best friend. I am thankful for these good and prefect gifts and so excited to have beautiful materials to chronicle my gratitude with. Thank you, Becky, for sharing your inspiration with all of us. xo

SUNDAY GIVEAWAY WINNERS of MAMALITA: An Adoption Memoir

2011-02-20T21:00:00.000-08:00

The two lucky readers who've each won a copy of MAMALITA by Jessica O'Dwyer are:

Cindy and Courtney!

Congratulations! Send us an email by March 7 to mamagiveaways(at)gmail(dot)com with the name of your prize in the subject line, and we'll get your book in the mail!

SUNDAY GIVEAWAY: Where's Walrus book

2011-02-20T04:00:00.000-08:00

Where's Walrus is a new book by Stephen Savage (author of Polar Bear Night and The Fathers Are Coming Home).

In this captivating book (illustrated with a retro flair) we are introduced to an adventurous walrus who is bored with life at the zoo, and escapes to the outside world.

This wordless picture book captivates children as they watch Walrus hide along side firefighters, businessmen, dancers, and even high divers in a contest. It is an adventure told through really fantastic illustrations.

Here is a trailer that gives a taste ...

We are really excited to be able to give away FIVE copies of this book!

To be entered in this giveaway, leave us a comment answering the following question:

"What is your favorite animal to visit at the zoo?"

This giveaway will be closed Saturday at 11 p.m. and the winner will be announced next Sunday!

Congratulations to the winners of last week's giveway:

{{{ Cindy }}}

{{{ Courtney }}}

Shoot us an email by 3/7 to mamagiveaways(at)gmail(dot)com with your prize in the subject line, and we'll hook you up!

homemade diaper rash solution

2011-02-16T04:17:00.000-08:00

Even though this is baby number four, we have gone the cloth route for the first time. One thing I LOVE is the cloth wiping. Based on cost and environment alone, I'd never go back to solely using disposable wipes. But truly the greatest advantage is the beautiful baby bottom left behind.

We went through a period of serious diaper rash his whole first month, while I was using organic cotton balls and plain water. So I started experimenting with different combos of natural ingredients to find a good homemade cloth wipe solution, and this is the one that finally made a world of difference. Literally within a few diaper changes any sign of a rash was completely gone, and has never been an issue since! Obviously every baby's skin reacts differently, but I just love this!

One batch lasts me about 2-3 days.

Mix:
1 cup distilled water
2 teaspoons distilled white vinegar
1/8 teaspoon tea tree oil (an amazing natural antibacterial with many other household uses)

Pour into some sort of squeeze bottle (like the one from the hospital), and squirt directly onto the skin, or onto the cloth wipes.

As for the cloth wipes, I made 25 or so before he was born, which for me is enough to last the two days between washes. They are about 7" square and double-sided: organic bamboo knit, and organic french terry. But even if cloth isn't your thing, consider trying a vinegar/tea tree solution for diaper rash as an alternative to your typical zinc oxide cream! It has worked wonders for me.

Happy wiping!

Fabulous Chimichurri Sauce

2011-02-15T14:54:00.000-08:00

This chimichurri sauce (herby goodness) will dress up any meat as a marinade or served right on top of grilled steak or chicken! Get ready for a flavor explosion.

Ingredients:

1 cup parsley leaves, chopped

1 shallot, coarsely chopped

3 cloves garlic, chopped

3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

1/4 cup olive oil

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

In a medium bowl or food processor, combine the ingredients. Mix thoroughly or pulse to combine. Use as a marinade or serve over grilled meat.

Here is another great chimichurri recipe I found today!

Food for Thought {and thoughts about food]

2011-02-14T15:27:00.000-08:00

I have been thinking a lot lately about food. Well, lets be honest, its not just lately that I have been thinking about food. Me and food - we like each other. I love preparing food. I love cooking for people. I love how so much of life revolves around food. Celebrations. Festivals. Social engagements. Rituals. If you have never made this connection, just decide to fast for a week and you will quickly see how often our thoughts revolve around food and how often things we do with our family and friends revolve around eating.

So, yes, me and food - we are kind of like BFF's.

Here is my question:

Do you know where your food comes from?

I really want to know. Think of how you would answer that. Because when someone asked me, I answered. And, then, I started thinking, and for the most part, I actually really don't.

My first response was that it is from the store. I walk in, and there are the aisles, and I am pretty aware of checking labels. I pursue organic products.

But, before landing there, on those shelves - where is my food from? The food that I put into my body daily. Into my children's bodies. Who grows it? Where do they buy their seeds? Have their products been genetically modified (there is no label for this)?

I went to my pantry and my fridge and began scanning - and, I kind of had a moment of panic when I realized that I don't really know where any of my food comes from, how it is grown, how it travels from there to the store.

What I am realizing, and kind of mourning (yes, I know that sounds VERY DRAMATIC), is that we have really lost the connection with our food. I almost want to roll my eyes at myself, but hang in there with me on this one. Think back 150 years ago - most families grew their own food. They KNEW where their food came from. They trusted that it was not compromised and that it was healthy. Industrialization has changed how food is grown, and how it gets from farm to our plates. And, like everything else in the industrial world, all of the change has not been good.

Think about this, mamas, if a stranger walked up to you on the street and wanted to hand you a steak, or a bushel of veggies, or even a box of cereal - would you take it? Would you feed it to your children? Would you trust that this random individual was handing you pure food?

I don't think I would. Because what I know is that what we put into our mouths can keep us alive (we need food and water to live, afterall), or it can lead to death (the poison apple serves as an iconic reminder).

So, why do we simply trust that all the food lining our shelves in the store is safe?

I was encouraged recently to watch the movie Food, Inc.

All I can say is - WATCH IT.

Please watch it.

Pretty please.

I was enthralled by the information shared. I learned so much. And, I was left feeling puzzled, perplexed and more than a little frustrated.

Here are some of the things I learned ...

Did you know that in the one burger you eat, there may be pieces of 5,000 cows?

Did you know that the majority of corn grown in Iowa actually cannot be used for human consumption?

Did you know that corn is in almost every product on the mainstream grocery store's products?

Did you know that about 5 companies produce all the meat in our nation?

Did you know that the American farmer is losing his ability to farm?

Did you know that it is virtually illegal for us to criticize certain companies? That freedom of speech does not apply to the food industry?

Did you know that a meat processing plant could have 6 people die from e coli poisoning and not be shut down?

Did you know that seeds are being modified to contain pesticides INSIDE the plant?

There is far more to list, but I want you to see it for yourself. This film is so well done - I believe that regardless of your political affiliation you will be glad that you watched.

I got my copy through Netflix. I started a free trial, and am now hooked. I love that for about $8 a month I can rent as many movies as I want. Even better, there are oodles of movies available on Netflix that you can watch from your computer instantly. Food, Inc. is one of the movies that is available to watch instantly. So... go ... watch ... and come back and let us know what you thought.

Here is my resolve - to find farmers who still farm that I can support, to purchase free range products, to buy as few GMO products as possible, and to vote in a manner that honors the farming industry and our earth. I WANT TO KNOW WHERE MY FOOD COMES FROM.

Other resources for you to pursue:

Michael Pollan

Fed Up (another movie you can find on Netflix)

King Corn (another movie you can find on Netflix)

Fast Food Nation (another movie you can find on Netflix)

SUNDAY GIVEAWAY: Mamalita: An Adoption Memoir by Jessica O'Dwyer

2011-02-13T04:00:00.000-08:00

When Jessica O'Dwyer and her husband fell in love with the online photo of a Guatemalan baby girl, they had no idea of the twisted journey that awaited them. Their eagerness to become adoptive parents lured them into signing with an inept LA agency whose slapdash methods left the couple fearful that their baby would never come home. At that point, Jessica made the brave decision to move to Guatemala, learning how to care for baby Olivia, while at the same time struggling to break through the bureaucratic indifference that stood in the way of making Olivia hers forever.

Kirkus Reviews calls this memoir, "a scathing critique on a foreign adoption system and one woman's attempt to fight it."

Author Joyce Maynard describes Mamalita as a book about the nature of parenthood, "the fierce love and loyalty that makes it possible for us to do more than we ever knew we were capable of." You may have a good cry when you get to the end; I certainly did!

You can learn more about Jessica's story on her blog.

We're delighted to have TWO copies of Mamalita, courtesy of Seal Press, to award to two lucky readers. To enter this giveaway, leave a comment answering this question:

How has being a mom or dad drawn out your inner strength? Or if you're not a parent, what important relationship or situation has demanded that you act with courage?

7. Become a fan of Mamalita: An Adoption Memoir on Facebook!

This giveaway will be closed Saturday at 11 p.m. and the winner will be announced next Sunday!

mama Love

2011-02-12T04:00:00.000-08:00

... I will blame my sweet tooth on the rapidly approaching Valentine's Day propaganda that surrounds me these days. But, my sweet tooth loves Santa Cruz's line of organic chocolate syrups.

My favorites are the chocolate and mint chocolate flavors. Whip up some tasty chocolate milk, or a mint mocha, or top ice cream with this tasty treat. I love that this product is made with certified organic ingredients, and does not contain any high fructose corn syrup.

... Where's Walrus is a new book by Stephen Savage (author of Polar Bear Night and The Fathers Are Coming Home). In this captivating book (illustrated with a retro flair) we are introduced to an adventurous walrus who is bored with life at the zoo, and escapes to the outside world. This wordless picture book captivates children as they watch Walrus hide along side firefighters, businessmen, and even high divers in a contest. It is an adventure with a bit of a twist. Here is a cute trailer that gives a taste of this story line. (We like this book so much, we will be giving a few copies away next weekend, so check back!!!)

... I have fallen in total and utter love with a new book. One Thousand Gifts, by Ann Voskamp, has completely spun my world (in a brilliantly great way). A friend of mine mentioned it to me the other day and I happened to pick it up at the bookstore the next day and began thumbing through it. I could not put it down. I stood there, captivated, drinking in the words that felt like water to my very parched soul. It was timely. More timely than I probably even know. It is the kind of book that I wish I could buy and give to every person that I love. You can read the first chapter online here.

Better yet - watch this ...

a million dollar bouquet

2011-02-12T00:32:00.001-08:00

Today was a "mommy and me" tea at the twins' preschool. In Kembe's class, there was a wall displaying the answers each child gave to the following question: If I had a million dollars, I would buy my mommy . . .

Kembe decided he would spent a million dollars on flowers.

A sweet thought . . . but we may have to have a little chat about the prudence of spending that much money on something that will die within the week. Four is a fine age to start discussing return on investment, right?

Talk Back: A Parenting "Mulligan"

2011-02-11T04:00:00.000-08:00

I am a big fan of living in the present and trying to focus on my future actions rather than dwelling on the past.

That being said ... what if you had the chance for a "do over" as a parent?

What would hindsight inspire you to do differently?

Would you discipline differently? Would you shut down the "family bed" before it began? Would you institute the "family bed" and have memories of warm bodies snuggled against you in bed? Would you do private over public? Would you respond to an event with your child differently?

Is there anything you would do differently if given the chance?

Today, I am given you that chance, and we want to hear what you would do ...

Here is my response:

Heavy response

I'd visit myself as a brand new mama and whisper in my own ear: "Don't worry so much."

Light Response

I would NEVER have let my kids play with my iphone. They would not even know what an angry bird is.

Just for fun, I asked my husband the same question. Here is his response:

I would not have asked my preschooler to say, "I'm watching you 'Focker'!" (As you can imagine, "focker" was completely mispronounced, and because we started laughing, this phrase was repeated a few times.)

For real, I cannot wait to read your answers!

Five Ways To Bring More Gratitude In Your Life

2011-02-09T10:15:00.000-08:00

For the past few months, I've been working on a daily gratitude project. It's not quite ready to be released to the world yet... That's mostly because I haven't found the time to work on it thereby negating the "daily" part of daily gratitude project. I'll keep you posted.

However, I am amazed at the difference it makes in my day whenever I do find time for it. Here are just five simple steps that have brought so much more joy in my life:

1. Change "Didn't" to "Done"

At night after I shut my eyes, my mind races about everything I failed to accomplish that day. It could be a last load of laundry. It could be something stupid I said. Maybe I yelled when I should have listened.

Whatever it is. I decided to counter with listing all of the things I did accomplish. Sometimes the best I can come up with is, "hey, we survived another day" and sometimes that, in itself, is huge.

2. Dare To Do Nothing.

A few weeks ago, Oprah did a show a happiness. According to her guest, studies show that just 10 minutes a day of silence will increase your happiness. I don't know about you, but ten minutes seems like an impossible commitment (especially if you can't even go to the bathroom without little ones and a husband following behind...). So Oprah challenged people to start with just one minute a day of silence.

One minute. I could do that!

I tried and it did make a difference. I felt calm, resolved, and peaceful, but I still felt self-conscious about sitting and doing... well, nothing.

A few days later I found this online: Do nothing for two minutes. Your stare at rolling waves for two minutes... and if you touch your mouse or keyboard, it restarts. Since you're on your computer, you can take your moment between projects. (And no one has to know.)

3. Say Please and Thank You! (With A Smile)

Taking the time to appreciate others, makes you feel appreciated too. It's not just good manners, it also builds a connection and fosters community. When I recognize how much others truly do for me, whether it's pouring the streamed milk for my latte just right or running to hold the door as I maneuver a stroller, I feel less "me against the world".

4. Put Yourself At The Top of Your To Do List

As moms, there isn't a second of our day that we're not thinking of others. Heck, as women... we continually put the needs of spouses, parents, friends, and everyone else before ours. It's wonderful, but what about bringing at little of that love and concern back home?

I used to think that "me time" involved getting a sitter and a weekend away or elaborate spa treatments. Who can afford that on a regular basis? I certainly can't!

Then, it occurred to me that "me time" could simply be me doing something I love like spending an afternoon baking (which I did yesterday) or making time for a hobby. My plan is to do one thing per week that's just for me. It could be talking to my best friend on the phone or a walk with the kids. No sitter needed.

5. Listen To Your Kids

I talk to my children all day long. I tell them to hurry up because we're late for school... again. I remind them to bring their plates to the sink and put their socks in the hampers. I ask them, "What do you say...", but I don't always ask time, "what do you think...."

My children are four and one, so there are just now expressing their views. Neither them are shy about expressing their preference... loudly, but they have started dabbling in the ways of the world.

Things I've long since taken for granted, they bring a whole new level of fascination. Why do birds make different sounds? And how awesome it is that there are so many! Why can't we have ice cream sundaes for dinner just this one time? Can we go to the park on our way home?

Remember how fun it was to just run in an open field? Just run. No form or heart rate monitors or calories burned. Just you and the sunshine and wind in your hair. I dare you to be grumpy after that.

One Dazed and Confused Mama Stops Trying

2011-02-08T12:18:00.000-08:00

On Saturday afternoon, my 8-year-old son Gobez and I settled in to watch 9-year-old sister Didi play basketball. The coach on the opposing team looked vaguely familiar.

I poked Gobez in the ribs. "Does that guy have a kid on your soccer team?" I asked, gesturing as discreetly as I could.

"I don't know," he muttered. "I don't exactly pay attention to the parents."

I'm embarrassed to admit that I don't exactly pay attention to the parents either. Like most busy moms, I struggle to make it through each hectic day, and important information is perpetually falling through the cracks, like the names and faces of good, decent people.

Before my husband and I adopted our children (one from India, two from Ethiopia), I joked that we were destined to be THAT family in our little town of 25,000 -- as in, "that family with the black kids." It hasn't turned out to be quite like that, but we do tend to stand out in people's minds, partly because we look different, and partly because the kids are just so darn friendly. Almost every week, a stranger greets me in Trader Joe's like an old pal.

"We met you and your family at Jamba Juice awhile ago," a bubbly mom might say. "The kids all played tag on the sidewalk together. We had such a great time!"

I just smile and nod in confusion.

There's one very sweet grandpa I see everywhere; he even knows my name! He never fails to ask about the children; apparently my kids and his grandkids enjoyed a spontaneous good time in the park three or four years ago. It's disorienting not to be able to recall all these kind strangers, but I'm training myself to make the most of the reunions.

I'm also training myself not to feel guilty about my overloaded brain. Consider this:

3 kids x 3 classrooms = 100+ parents per school year

100 parents x 7 combined years of elementary school = 700+ parents encountered, give or take a few dozen repeat contacts

3 kids x 6 sports teams per year = a harder math problem than I can handle at the moment

And here's another dirty little secret: even after four seasons of soccer and basketball, I still don't know how many players are required for each sport. Frankly, I don't care. If I get the right kid to the right game at the correct time and place, my work is done. Please don't ask me to learn the rules, either.

"How's your soccer player?" a smiling woman asks in the coffee shop.

"Great," I answer. I have no idea which kid she is talking about.

At last weekend's basketball game, I had the good fortune to sit next to someone I do actually remember, a lovely woman I'll call Sarah. My friend and I have a lot in common; we both have three children in elementary school playing on multiple sports teams. Unlike me, Sarah grew up in this community, so I assume she has an edge when it comes to remembering folks. Then again, she's also a school principal, which means she's an A-list local celebrity with even more contacts.

"What's the name of your daughter's coach?" I asked her. "I think I know him."

"Oh man," Sarah sighed. " I don't know."

"That makes me feel good," I said. "I assumed you're better at this than me."

"People ask me to sign their school permission slips in the grocery store. I have no idea who they are. I just sign."

I wanted to hug her.

As the game broke up, I noticed Gobez chatting with the dad/coach he'd claimed not to know, and all the sudden it hit me: not only did the guy have a kid on our soccer team, we've even carpooled a couple times!

"Nice to see you, Paul," I said.

Lesson learned: miracles can happen when you just stop trying.

Creamy Corn Bake

2011-02-07T04:07:00.000-08:00

This delicious corn casserole recipe, courtesy of Marta of Haus of Girls, makes the perfect accompaniment to a big bowl of chili or tortilla soup. It is just way too easy and yummy not to share!

Ingredients:
Can of Corn, Drained
Can of Cream Style Corn
3 oz Sour Cream
1 Cup Melted Butter (see why this is so yummy?)
2 Eggs, Beaten
1 Box Corn Muffin Mix (regular size Jiffy)

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350.
Combine the two corns, sour cream, melted butter, beaten eggs & corn muffin mix.
Mix well & pour into 9 x 13 baking pan and bake 35-40 minutes.

DONE! Make this! Tonight!

Sitcky Bellies Giveaway winner

2011-02-06T19:41:00.000-08:00

Oh what fun it was to see how many of you are cooking some buns in your ovens. Lots of babies due in late spring and summer!

Our winner of the super fab Sticky Bellies stickers is ... Giofamily.

For real, your comment made me laugh out loud. I am the 3rd child in my family and the comparison of photos between my sister, the 1st child, and me is hilarious. It is like - "Look this is the day Ali was born." "Oh, and here she is graduating from high school."

Congratulations! Shoot us an email by 2/20 to mamagiveaways(at)gmail(dot)com with your prize in the subject line, and we'll hook you up!

We have some great giveaways coming in the near future so keep checking back.

Happy Sunday, y'all.

Teen Speak: Gag me with a spoon!

2011-02-03T10:31:00.000-08:00

That’s right, I was a Valley Girl. Not the pretend kind. I grew up in the San Fernando Valley and could weave 30 “likes” into any conversations with skill and ease. I had great intonation. Plus, I had perfected the eye roll (also known in the day as rad skilz!). I’m sure it was painful for anyone over the age of 16 to engage in conversation with me.

That said, there were some phrases that were off limits, including: “Like, oh my God.” The other no-no: “Shut up!” (as in “no waaay!”). My parents made it clear they didn’t want to hear either of those and especially not directed at them. Today, these top my list of no-no phrases too. So, it’s no surprise that I wince whenever I hear a fourth grader say, “OMG.”

Yet, OMG is typical of today's teen speak, which is cloaked in cryptic acronyms via a steady stream of text messages. A recent report in the Wall Street Journal, said that the average teen sends more than 100 texts per day or more than 3000 text messasges per month. That's a lot of time. But, my beef isn't with quantity. I logged a ridiculous number of hours on the telephone when I was teeny-bopper. (Of course, the phone was tethered to the wall and I was safely tucked in my bedroom.)

My problem is the number hours spent sending sloppy, grammatically incorrect text messages back and forth. Not to be melodramatic, but I’m concerned about the destruction of the English language and annihilation of general civility. (Okay - so I'm a little melodramatic). For real -- I find texting crass. When I see LOL, I want to scream, “Use your words!” So cliché. So boring. So utterly lazy.

However, I'm smart enough to know that this is how my kids will someday soon communicate with me. They won’t use whole sentences with punctuation. They won’t even use their own words. They’ll send me quick, punchy texts to tell me their whereabouts. But, because it’s their language and their rules – I’m learning.

The Online Mom, Monica Villa, writes, “Think of the Internet as a giant swimming pool. You can put a fence around it. But, the safest child will be the one who knows how to swim!” I’d add one important footnote here. You can’t teach your kid to float if you don’t get in the water.

So, this is me, diving into the world of texting – NT (no thanks), NE1HR (anyone here), 143 (I love you), PAL (parents are listening) or TAW (teachers are watching). For the down-low on IM/texting lingo, check out Monica’s handbook on “Staying Safe Online.” And to keep it real, I remind myself that I regularly used the words "groddy," "totally" and the occassional "gnarly" during my formative years. Alas, I turned out okay.

(In full disclosure – I skillfully butcher the English language everyday on Twitter and have never once used LOL, ROFL or LMAO. I prefer the authentic “HA!” or laid-back “funny” instead. There’s also the sublime “tee-hee-hee.”)

Goodbye Pacifier, Hello Reminder

2011-02-01T06:10:00.000-08:00

Yesterday we decided to be done with Asher's pacifier.

say it ain't so!

(Actually, Ryan decided and I begrudgingly tried hard to see why this made sense on this particular day because yeah, I'm quite easy-going about such things, I'll admit it--I don't get all uptight about what the books or other people say about pacifiers.) (And yes, Asher is 3 and a half and still slept with a plastic thing in his mouth.) (Don't judge.)

So last night was the big night, if only on a whim, and so we prepared ourselves for a fight. We prepared ourselves to get up a lot. We tried to prepare Asher by talking about it throughout the evening, before bedtime.

He argued a whiny attempt at changing our minds incessantly for the last ten minutes before bed, his enormous blue eyes looking up at us, begging. So we tried bargaining and praising and convincing, etc...infinity...

But he continued to say things like, I don't want anything but my paaaaciiiiii. (And believe you me, it was so tempting to say OKAY FINE because he's the cutest little cherub with a nasal-y voice you ever did see.)

I carried him to bed and whispered good things to him. I put him down and told him that he's a big strong boy, just like his big brother and that I knew he could do it.

And then, after all that arguing and whining, he said, "You are right, Mommy." (With a little quivering lip, a big sigh and very sad Goodbye Paci eyes.)

Then he immediately went to sleep and did not make a peep all night long and slept later this morning than usual. True story.

~~~~~

I'm consistently surprised by motherhood. By parenting. By life with kids. We hardly ever get what we expect no matter how we try to prepare or not prepare and no matter how uptight or easy-going we are. All I really no for sure is how totally out of control I am no matter how much I try to control things.

I'm in no way an expert on anything. I mean, I allowed my boy to have a pacifier until age 3.5 (and honestly, I'm totally cool with that), but if I could give one piece of advice (even though I'm truly not much of an advice-giver, since I know that can be annoying) to new parents, this would be it:

Roll with it, friends. Almost everything in the early years works itself out in its own time, it really does. The sleep schedule, the feeding schedule, the potty training and the pacifying. These are simply small things when you look back. So trust your heart-gut rather than the books or even the experts and do your best to...well, relax.

I wish I had done that, from the beginning. And maybe it just takes time for us to learn to do that. But it's not laziness to relax a little. I think it might just be surrender--to life with kids, on its own terms. Of course it's important to remain consistent with discipline and all that, I'm not saying it's not. I'm simply talking about letting go and living out the process and trusting your heart-gut if it's telling you everything will be okay, even if it's not right now.

I mean, really friends. If I don't take on this attitude myself, I may not be able to handle it tonight when Asher has a complete fit over not having a pacifier anymore.

(Look at me, trying to predict the future again. My learning curve...it ebbs and flows.)

Heather writes at The Extraordinary Ordinary

SUNDAY GIVEAWAY: Sticky Bellies

2011-01-30T04:00:00.000-08:00

I am going to issue a serious alert for anyone who has had all the babies they are going to have --

alert: Be prepared to be slightly bummed that you did not see this fabulous product while you were pregnant.

Now, replace that slightly bummed feeling knowing that you will be able to give every future pregnant loved one the BEST gift ever! (For under $20 - even better!)

Every mother wants to be able to document their children's first year of life and track them growing through their milestones. Unfortunately, this desire often gets trumped by the chaos of the rapid growth and milestones kicking the you know what out of us as parents. I remember my plan was to take a photo of my kids in a specific spot in our home next to a stuffed animal that was given to them every month of their first year. I was also going to have them wear one of their daddy's basic white t-shirts and we would be able to see how they were growing. Yeah. Hmmm. That lasted about 2 months.

Let me introduce you to one of the coolest products I have seen that I really wish I had seen 8 years ago! ...

Sticky Bellies are removable stickers that help you document your baby's first year of life

month by month. It is as simple as peeling off the sticker, putting it on baby's shirt and propping them up for their photo moment. Imagine the facebook updates, email updates, and cute little baby book that could be created with 12 photos.

These people are brilliant, I tell you! Absolutely brilliant.

I am really excited to be able to give away a set of Sticky Bellies to you, one of our fabulous readers! To enter this giveaway, leave a comment answering the following question:

"Would these stickers be for you to use, or your friend? When is

the baby due?"

7. Become a fan of Sticky Bellies on Facebook!

[This giveaway will be closed Saturday at 11 p.m. and the winner will be announced next Sunday!]

And, now --- for the winner of last week's giveaway:

{{{JordanLee}}}

Congratulations! Shoot us an email by 2/20 to mamagiveaways(at)gmail(dot)com with your prize in the subject line, and we'll hook you up! Keep checking back for more great giveaways!

My Best Friend Is Having a Baby!

2011-01-26T04:00:00.000-08:00

My best friend since high school called a few weeks ago to announce that she's pregnant for the first time (!!) and my heart is bursting with joy for her.

Once we got past the “Ahhhh!” and “Oh my goodness!” and “Ahhhh” again, I asked her all the requisite questions-- How far along? How are you feeling? When are you due?

She went on to list all of the books she’s be reading lately. (You know the ones with all of the conflicting advice, extreme standards, and impossibly high ideals) Then she noted all of missteps she's noticed other (read: lesser) parents doing that she and her husband will never do.

For once, I was grateful to be separated by several states and a crappy cell connection, so I could keep my eye rolls and snickers to myself.

“Our toddler will never run around at dinner time!”

(suppressed laughter)

“What was that noise?”

“Oh… um, probably some static. By all means, please continue.”

I could have offered advice from my years of experience. I could have asked the “tough” questions from someone who's been there, done that.

Forget debating about the nursery colors, have they talked about about who’s getting up with the baby in the middle of the night- an ugly, bleary-eyed argument that inevitably boils down to “who’s day job is more important?”

I didn’t going into any of that because I know what it's like to be pregnant for the very first time (and the second time, too) and there is no way I was about to deprive my best friend of almost twenty years of that excited, anxious, CRAZY, know-it-all, terrifying, breathtaking, mind-blowing, magical experience.

(Being pregnant for the second time wasn't that different from the first time, except that know-it-all feelings is heightened and you gain the baby weight twice as fast.)

Instead, I listened, intently and indulgently, to everything the Internet had to say on whether her baby is a size of an avocado or a peach this week, everything she ate today, and how much weigh she should be gaining.

Why? Because she did the same thing for me almost five years ago when I was sending “pregnancy updates” to all of my friends via email and perfectly quoting Babywise, Sears, and SuperNanny. Oh yeah, I was THAT girl.

In lieu of more stress and more pressure from yet another “expert”, I simply told her to enjoy this time. Truly and completely relish this time.

When else do you get to know absolutely everything about everything when it comes to motherhood?

I told her to parent the kid you have. I spent so much time fretting about nipple confusion and bed wetting, when I really should have come up with 21 ways to take a conference call while my child howls because I gave his a red bowl, not blue....

I shared with her all of the funny stories and sweet moments. I told her should could call me anytime and that she’s going to make an awesome mom.

I also asked her to specifically enumerate all those instance of “bad parenting” she's been noticing recently... for mocking in the years to come.... er, I mean, posterity's sake.

Surviving the Competition

2011-01-23T09:32:00.000-08:00

For the last month and a half, our family has devoted most weekends to tryouts for competitive soccer. My son Gobez, 8, and my older daughter Didi, 9, have been playing comp for the past year, but this was the first time that my 7-year-old daughter Lemlem went through the grueling tryout ritual. Just to be clear, it wasn't the kids who found it grueling -- it was me.

The world of competitive children's sports we've entered confuses me: the sideline intensity of certain parents; the push to make 7-year-olds and their families surrender entire weekends to tournaments; not to mention a program that inadvertently excludes kids who don't have a stay-at-home parent or nanny to cart them to practice, or a family budget with wiggle room to cover uniforms and a coach's salary. Still, so far the benefits of playing comp have outweighed the drawbacks for us (especially if I don't count the bruised kneecap and sprained shoulder Didi sustained at practice last fall.) Didi and Gobez have thrived in the team environment and developed new friendships -- which is why the hardest part of the tryout season for me has been agonizing over the prospect of veteran teammates getting cut. Keeping up with comp soccer is such a family commitment that to let a child (and a family) go after a year of devotion seems so brutal. If one of my own kids were to be axed, we'd be cleaning up the emotional wreckage for months. My son cries when soccer practice is rained out -- I can only imagine how destroyed he'd feel if his team cut him loose.

"Tiger mother" Amy Chua, whose recent essay in The Wall Street Journal describing the so-called Chinese approach to parenting has made her the talk of parents everywhere, has said that "Chinese mothers" presume their kids possess a psychic strength that can endure aggressive parental pushing for achievement, whereas Western parents are overly concerned with protecting a child's self-esteem. I've found myself pondering this point a lot while awaiting the tryout results. I believe that parents needs to strike a balance between encouraging excellence, building self-esteem and allowing kids to experience failure and rejection sometimes so that they learn how to cope. Still, is a child of 8 or 9 developmentally able to withstand the experience of being 86'd by a former trusted coach? Should a child be asked to withstand it, even if she can?

I wasn't a very athletic kid, and neither was my husband. Our three sporty kids were adopted. I can't personally comprehend loving a sport so much that missing practice makes you cry. However, I did have a modest "career" as a child actor in community theater, where the rejections from adults were up close and personal. Directors informed me that I was too short, too fat, too clumsy and completely lacking in sex appeal -- all before my 16th birthday. At the time I found the comments annoying but not hurtful; I sort of understood that the directors critiquing me so brutally obviously had no business working with children. My self-esteem never suffered because I always got the parts I knew I was right for, and maybe because nobody was pushing me -- I wanted to put myself out there. Eventually I gave up acting, in part because the audition process so often felt needlessly petty and ridiculous.

I think some of my anxiety for my kids comes from realizing as an adult that theater people don't actually own petty and ridiculous. You can find it anywhere. I don't want my children to be hurt. I don't want them to be afraid to try. It's a Chinese finger trap for the mind.

Only time will tell how far each of my kids will choose to go with soccer, or when they will discover the limits of their athletic abilities. For now, the game is still on: we got word on Sunday that all three children had made their respective teams. Some friends will not be back. I just hope we'll all be okay.