Monday, March 31, 2008

Calendar Pick of the Week: Parenting Workshop


Parenting Workshop: Balancing Love & Discipline
When: Thursday, April 3, 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Where: Java Mama Cafe, La Mesa
Why: Learn the concept of firm and kind, unconditional love, and the value of more action and less How: Parenting Workshops are $30 per person or $45 per couple. For more information check out http://www.happyhealthyhip.com

Thursday, March 27, 2008

MamaVote Resources: Prop 98 & 99

On June 3, California will host another primary election. Propositions 98 & 99 will both be voted on during this primary election (the only propositions confirmed on the ballot so far...others are pending).

I thought I would share some useful information to help you mamas determine where you stand on these issues!

Of course there are always the pro and con websites:
http://yesprop98.com
http://no98yes99.com/

There is helpful information from the Secretary of State - including the full text of each proposition:
http://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/elections_j.htm#2008SPrimary

The League of Women Voters has also issued statements regarding their position on each issue:
http://ca.lwv.org/action/prop0806/flyer.html

I'll be sharing other information as the election nears...I'm sure there will be plenty of discussion here in San Diego!

Wednesday, March 26, 2008

San Diego Mama Favorite: Pizza Dough Recipe

I love homemade pizza. Especially using the following homemade pizza dough recipe. It is easy to make, quick cooking, and just the perfect thickness and texture. Here are a few of our favorite ways to dress up this tasty dough:
  • You can't go wrong with homemade pizza sauce, fresh mozzarella and pepperoni
  • Top it with BBQ sauce, grilled chicken, red onions, pineapple and your cheese of choice
  • Drizzle it with olive oil, fresh chopped basil, chopped garlic, and fresh Parmesan (serve with marinara)
Pizza Dough
(Makes 2 lbs of dough or 3 (12 inch) pizzas. I split the recipe in
half to make 1 pizza to fit on a 16-inch pizza stone)

4 1/2 cups bread flour
2 1/4 tsp. yeast
1 1/2 tsp. salt
2 T. olive oil
1 3/4 cups warm water

1. In a kitchen aid, blend the 4 cups of flour, yeast and salt with a
dough hook until combined. With the mixer running, pour the oil then
the water until a rough ball forms, 30-40 seconds. Let the dough rest
for 2 minutes then mix for 1 minute.
2. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured counter top and knead by hand
to form a smooth, round ball, about 5 minutes. Add the remaining 1/4
cup of flour as needed. Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl.
cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place until doubled - 1
to 1 1/2 hours.
3. Place an oven rack to the lower-middle position. Place a baking
stone in the oven and heat the oven to 500 degrees for at least 30
minutes.
4. Divide the dough into 3 even pieces. Shape the pieces into a
smooth round. Keep the pieces covered when you are not working with
the dough so they won't dry out.
5. Uncover one ball and shape it into a 12-inch round on parchment
paper, so it won't stick to the counter or the pizza stone. (You
don't have to do this step, but it works. You can just do it on the
counter with some flour.) Transfer to the pizza stone and add the
sauce and toppings. Bake 8-13 minutes, until the crust is brown and
the cheese is golden in spots

Enjoy!

Tuesday, March 25, 2008

San Diego Mama Favorite: Biz Detergent

Anyone who has a toddler knows the incredible amounts of clothing that can be ruined in a single afternoon at the park. My daughter can manage to get dirty pretending to cook hot dogs with her toy kitchen.

So, what's a mom to do short of buying a new wardrobe every month? Use Biz Detergent. This is seriously a mom's best laundry friend.

Anytime Amelia gets a stain on her clothes (or mine for that matter) I just soak it in Biz overnight. The next morning...everything is good as new!

And, if you want a milder version for your baby's sensitive skin use Biz Baby.

As far as laundry stain removers go Biz really is better!

Monday, March 24, 2008

San Diego Mama Newsletter

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Calendar Pick of the Week: San Diego Farmer's Markets

Almost everyday here in San Diego I comment to anyone who will listen how great the weather is. I love this incredibly warm spring weather!

I love spending as much time outdoors as possible...basking in all the sunshine before the May gray/June gloom hits.

I have been meaning to visit the Del Mar Farmer's Market ever since I moved to San Diego 6 years ago...I think this is the week! The fresh fruits and veges and a sunny afternoon in Del Mar are calling my name.

Find a Farmer's Market in your area - check out our San Diego Mama Calendar of Events for a listing of farmer's markets all over the county.

Friday, March 21, 2008

Weekend Happenings: Henry's Easter Egg Hunt

Starting tomorrow at 9:00 AM all of the San Diego Henry's Farmers Markets locations will be hosting Easter Egg hunts. To find a location near you check out www.henrysmarkets.com.

For a list of Easter events around the county this weekend check out our San Diego Mama Calendar.

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

Guest Post: Fitness for Pregnancy, Birth & Beyond

I'd like to welcome back Guest Mama, Rebecca Christian - a yoga instructor and personal trainer. This month she is sharing some great exercises for toning our lower bodies...which is exactly what I need as I enter my 8th month of pregnancy. Rebecca included some great photos of each exercise, but if you would like to schedule a one-on-one session with her you can contact her at beckachristian1@gmail.com or 804-201-0919.

Maintaining lower body strength is extremely important for all women, but especially those who are pregnant. As you and your baby grow, increased stress is placed on the joints of the pelvis, knees and ankles. Strong gluteals (the muscles of your butt) and legs help absorb some of the pressure, may reduce common pregnancy related aches and pains, and aid in circulation (ankle swelling no more!).

In addition to the exercises listed below, don’t forget that walking is an excellent complement to your strength training, especially if you get some hills on your route. Always talk to your doctor before beginning an exercise program, and be careful not to over exert yourself.

Here are a couple of great moves to strengthen and tone those gorgeous gams!

You will need: A large resistance ball (a tall chair or sturdy railing will also work), ankle weights (optional)

Squat:

With the ball positioned slightly above the small of your back, walk your legs several feet in front of you, about hip-width apart (wider for pregnant bellies). Turn your toes out to about a 10-degree angle. Place your hands on your hips and keep those shoulders back (no slouching!).

Bend your knees as if sitting in a chair, being careful not to let your hips drop below the knees. Be sure that your knees stack directly above the ankles (in other words, do not let the knee extend beyond the ankle). Lower down into your squat to a slow count of 3, pause at the bottom, and slowly lift back up to standing. Perform 2-3 sets of 15 repetitions. (For an added challenge you can rest 8 -10lb dumbbells on the tops of the thighs.)

(Note: If a ball is not accessible, you can always hold on to the back of a tall chair for balance)

Targets: Gluteal muscles, hamstrings (back of the thigh), quadriceps (front of thigh), and inner thigh muscles.

Calf Raise: I like to do these on a staircase, but you can use any sturdy surface that is slightly elevated off the floor. I recommend using a tall chair or a wall for balance! Begin with the feet about hip-width apart, the balls of your feet on the step with the heels hanging off. Inhale as you lift your heels to stand on the toes, pausing for one breath at the top. Slowly lower the heels down to feel a stretch in the calf muscles, and lift up once again. Repeat 2-3 sets of 15.

Targets: muscles of the feet, ankles, calves, quadriceps

Donkey Kick: Begin on all fours with the knees and hands at least hip-width apart. Lower down onto your forearms to give yourself a greater range of motion. Lift the right leg to about hip height, with the foot flexed. Pause at the top of the motion to really squeeze the buttock muscles. Keep your abdominals engaged to avoid over-arching in your low back. Lower the leg to start position and repeat 2-3 sets of 15 repetitions on each leg.

Targets: Gluteals, Hamstrings

*For an extra kick-in-the-butt, add ankle weights!

Side Lying Adductor/Abductor: Lying on your right side, stack your left leg on top of the right, and use your left hand to brace yourself. Keep your foot flexed and your muscles firm as you lift the leg about one foot into the air, pausing at the top to feel the outer thigh muscles contract. Lower the leg down with control and repeat 2-3 sets of 15 repetitions. Again, add ankle weights for an extra challenge.

Still on your right side, place to left foot in front of your body, knee bent, and lift the right leg, targeting the inner thigh. Mix it up by alternating between slow, controlled movements and strong, quick ones.

Muscles targeted: Inner and outer thighs

Perform these exercises 2-3 days per week, stretching thoroughly (as in holding each stretch for at least 30 seconds) afterwards. Within just a few weeks you’ll be showing off those shapely legs! Enjoy!

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Healthy Easter Basket Tips


Easter is just days away, and the grocery stores are stocked with shelves of sugary goodies awaiting the big day. My daughter is only 2, and though she LOVES candy, I've been looking for other alternatives for her basket.

Janet Little, Certified Nutritionist for Henry’s Farmers Markets, offers some great tips for making your child's Easter basket healthy and fun this year.

Easy ways to turn that sugar-packed Easter basket into a basketful of healthy treats:

  • Give dark chocolate instead of milk or white chocolate. Dark chocolate is full of heart healthy antioxidants, B-vitamins, magnesium and potassium. Although dark chocolate does offer health benefits, it still contains fat and calories, so stick to including small quantities.
  • Are your kids a little nutty? Give them packs of fresh mixed nuts or dried fruit. Nuts are rich in fiber and antioxidants such as Vitamin E and selenium.
  • Eliminate the candy overload by adding fun toys to Easter baskets that will get the kids up and moving, such as swimsuits and jump ropes.
  • Your child’s creativity doesn’t need to be limited to dyeing eggs. Add items to their baskets like crayons or paints.

What to Avoid:

  • Avoid giving your kids jelly beans as they are high in sugar. Surprisingly, Americans consume about 16 billion jelly beans at Easter each year.
  • Do not let your kids have free reign over their candy. Set up a schedule (such as picking one piece of candy after dinner each day) so you and your child know how much candy they are consuming.
  • Do not stick to your old ways. Be healthy in creative ways, such as adding items that encourage learning and exploration, such as coloring books, music toys or an origami kit.
  • Do not make candy the only Easter treat. Instead, try rewarding your kids with fresh sweet fruit.
  • Do not teach your children bad habits. Children’s eating habits are formed at a young age, so the sooner you switch them to healthier alternatives, the better.
Thanks Janet!

On a related note: If you do want to put a little candy in the basket...Henry's offers a great selection of bulk candies. You can buy as much as you would like, so you aren't stuck with leftover candy.

Happy Healthy Hip

Monday, March 17, 2008

Calendar Pick of the Week: Baby & Me Yoga

Twice a month the Rancho Penasquitos Library in conjunction with the Yoga Vista Studio does a free yoga class for moms and babies.

Check out the yoga class tomorrow at 10:30.

Babies should be 4 weeks to crawling, and please bring a blanket for your baby.

Please pre-register for individual classes. Rancho Peñasquitos Branch Library 13330 Salmon River Road, (858) 538-8159

Friday, March 14, 2008

Weekend Calendar Pick: Butterflies & Orchids

We celebrated my daughter's 2nd birthday yesterday, and the celebration will continue this weekend at the San Diego Wild Animal Park.

While my daughter definitely wants to see the giraffes and elephants, I am hoping to see the butterflies and orchids exhibit opening tomorrow!

Here's all the details!

Delicate colors and fragrant aromas fill the air as the annual Butterflies & Orchids event flutters in March 15 at the San Diego Zoo's Wild Animal Park . Each year, animal care staff at the Wild Animal Park receive butterfly pupae which they house and care for until the delicate insects emerge in all their colorful finery. At the height of the event thousands of butterflies can be seen in the Hidden Jungle aviary, floating through the air, eating bits of fruit and nectar or cautiously landing on a guest's hat or colorful shirt before taking flight again. In addition, hundreds of beautiful orchids will be on display in Nairobi Village adding color and fragrance to the event. Butterflies & Orchids runs from March 15 through April 6. The event is included with admission to the Wild Animal Park.

Thursday, March 13, 2008

MamaVote Resource: EdSource Online

If you're a Mama who is looking for information on education where you live, then EdSource is for you! They discuss everything from the current education budget cuts, education policy and school reform.

Check out their site for reliable information on charter schools, teacher quality, school finance and standardized testing.

Their site is full of studies and statistics, but all presented in an easy-to-understand format.

Check it out!

Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Meet The San Diego Mama Behind...


Mom & photographer Gina Geigley just moved back to San Diego and is ready to take your photograph! Having a baby? Want a family portrait taken? Getting married? Then you need to talk to Gina. Check out the beautiful photography in her gallery. This Mama sure knows how to capture a moment in time!

Meet Gina!

How long have you lived here?
Well, my husband is in the Navy, and we lived here previously from 2000-2003, my oldest child was born here. We moved back about a month ago, and plan to stay forever!!

Why did you start your business?
Photography has always been a passion for me. I was always the one with the camera where ever I went. It wasn’t until I had my children, that I realized that I wanted to capture every little thing about them on “film” and hold onto it forever! I didn’t decide to turn my passion into a business until my 2nd child was born, was only a month and we had a horrid experience at a chain photographer. I knew I could do better, and so set into motion
Gina Geigley Photography! I want to help other families capture the preciousness and spirit of their children…not just their smile.

What is your favorite thing about running your business?
I make my own rules! I don’t have to “call in sick” if I am having a bad day, and I can be there for anything and everything that my kids need me for!

What is your all-time favorite thing about living in San Diego?
There is always, always, always something to do!! And of course the weather!

Where is your favorite place to eat in San Diego?
Keiserhoff, a little German restaurant in
OB

Where is your favorite place to go with your children in San Diego?
They would drag me to the beach everyday if I let them! So, for them, the beach.

Where is your favorite place to go without your child (with your husband or girlfriends)?
ANY scrapbook store!! Just some ME time to do one of my favorite hobbies!

Any insider San Diego secrets to share?
One thing I always like to do when we move to a
new city (or even did it in our hometown), it take a tour…yes, one of those cheesy tourist tours of the city. You will be amazed at what you learn! Plus, it also gives your children a chance to learn about the city too! We plan to take ours on the duck tour soon. As well, get out of your car and WALK around…everyday I am amazed at what I find and see just by walking or riding our bikes around. You miss too much just zooming around in your car (and the GAS $$!)….slow down and take a walk…this city is PERFECT for it!!

Tuesday, March 11, 2008

San Diego Mama Giveaways!

Check out the San Diego Mama "Win" section to win great new prizes each week!

This week we are giving away darling dresses from Shabby Apple...perfect for your daughter for spring.

Also, enter to win gorgeous blank notecards from Posh Peacock.

Monday, March 10, 2008

Calendar Pick of the Week: Henry's Easter Ham Donation Program

rkeInspired by a successful turkey program in which Henry's shoppers raised $19,000 worth of turkeys during the recent holiday season to help feed families in need, Henry's Farmers Market will continue its commitment to supporting local charities by hosting an Easter Ham Donation Program.

When: Between March 3 – 23

What: Henry's shoppers will have the option of donating dollar amounts offered in several increments at the check-out stand, to go toward the purchase of hams for Father Joe's Villages. Donations of ham will help local charities feed families all over Southern California.

Where: All Henry's Locations, benefiting charities vary upon store locations

For more information please visit www.henrysmarkets.com


Visit the San Diego Mama calendar of events for all this week's activities.

Friday, March 7, 2008

Calendar Pick of the Week: Strawberry Days


I've been waiting for what feels like FOREVER for strawberries to come back in season. It looks like I'm not the only one. Henry's Farmers Market is celebrating the return of strawberries with a Strawberry Days Celebration this weekend.

Stop by any Henry's Farmers Market location this weekend between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM for mouth-watering samples, tastings and demonstrations: strawberry shortcake, chocolate-dipped strawberries, fresh strawberry salsa, and more.

And, while you are enjoying the delicious treats, the kids can enjoy coloring contests, games and prizes.

Wednesday, March 5, 2008

San Diego Mama Favorite: Lookybook

Moms are always on the lookout for great books for their kids. It's not always easy to know which books your kids will like...especially if you have limited time browsing at the library or bookstore(which is always hard for me with a 2-year-old in tow).

Thanks to Lookybook a brand new website...you can now view more than 250 children's books online, cover to cover, from the comfort of your home. If you like a book you see on their website just click "Buy it" and they will send you directly to a store. You can also read reviews from other moms and save books in your own "bookshelf."

Check out this book from the site's creator, Craig Frazier(the books are much bigger on the site):





Every time I go to the website I spend at least 20 minutes just browsing the books. I think you'll enjoy this San Diego Mama favorite as much as I have!

Tuesday, March 4, 2008

San Diego Mama Favorite: Mama Hair Care Services

My hairstylist, Nancy Eklund, just emailed me about her new Mama Hair Care Services. She is an excellent stylist who is going to be making mom's days all over San Diego. Not only will she give you a great haircut and style...but she will drive to your house to do it(free if you live in the greater San Diego area)!

Check out the details below, and give Nancy a call...her schedule is sure to fill up with an offer like this!


(858) 336 2695

www.NancyEklund.net

Introducing...

Mama Hair Care Services
Luxurious, at-home TLC for busy young moms and their locks!
Sometimes it is so difficult to juggle our lives—husband, job and kids. So many times, you seem to come in last.
Mama Hair Care Services were created just for you. You don't need to leave home or find a sitter to get a great cut and/or color.

Make an appointment on one of our at-home service days for Nancy to come to your home and give you the care and pampering you've deserved for so long.

Haircuts*

Haircuts include consultation, oil neck/shoulder massage and precision cut.

Mama Haircut - $55 ◦ Daddy Haircut - $40 ◦ Kid Haircut - $30

Color/Highlights*

Color services include consultation, oil neck/shoulder and hand massage.

New Clients: Prior, In-Salon Consult Required

Color - $75/hour

Corrective Color – Available In Salon Only

"Haircut Party" Packages*
Feeling lonely? Have a couple Mama Friends over for a play date and everyone can get beautiful with one of our group packages.

Package A: 3 Mamas – 3 Haircuts - $150
Package B: 2 Mamas – 2 Haircuts with Color – Each Mom Receives $10 off

Travel

*No travel fee for greater San Diego.
Travel fee of $20-40 range for outside
San Diego such as San Marcos or Chula Vista.

Payments

Credit Card deposit required to secure an at-home appointment.
Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours notice: 50% fee billed to credit card.
Cash and check accepted for at-home services.
If you choose advance payment, you may use Visa, MC or Discover.

Appointments
Mama Hair Care Services are available by appointment according to the following specific hours and days in 2008.

Appointment Hours: 9am – 5pm

Appointment Days in 2008:

March – Tue 11 and Wed 19

April – Wed 9 and Thur 24

May – Wed 7 and Thur 15

June – Wed 11 and Thur 26

July – Wed 9 and Thur 24

Aug – Wed 6 and Thur 21

Sept – Wed 10 and Thur 25

Oct – Wed 8 and Thur 23

Nov – Wed 5 and Thur 20

Dec – Wed 3 and Thur 17

Call today for an appointment.

Nancy (858) 336-2695

Monday, March 3, 2008

Free Parenting Workshop: Positive Parenting Program


Looking for some parenting tips and advice to improve your relationship with your child? Sondra Santos LaBrie, a mom and Certified Parent Educator, is offering a free introductory class to her Postive Parenting Program.

When: Thursday, March 13, 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Where: Java Mama in La Mesa

This first workshop is an introduction to the Positive Parenting Program as well as the opportunity for participants to meet other parents committed to enriching their relationship with a child.

Check out her website for more information about the workshops Sondra offers, as well as all of her other services.