Thursday, August 28, 2008

On Location: Water H20 = Life Exhibit

Where: The San Diego Natural History Museum
Basic Info: Check out their website for basic visitor info.
Exhibit Dates: Runs through November 30

Overview of the Exhibit:
Water affects the lives of every creature and plant on Earth. Every language has a word for water, and this ever-present yet precious substance influences art and cultures around the globe. Using innovative technology, hands-on activities, live animals, and captivating imagery, the exhibition allows visitors to explore water in its many forms and uses.

San Diego Mama Review:
A few weekends ago my husband and I decided to check out the new exhibit, Water H20 = Life, at the San Diego Natural History Museum. After spending several minutes trying to convince my daughter that the "water" falling from the ceiling at the entrance of the exhibit was not going to get her wet (it was only a dry-ice effect), we entered the exhibit and enjoyed learning about water in many forms. The exhibit was interesting, had many interactive games and was definitely educational.


My 2 year old enjoyed watching the water...and even created a little water exhibit of her own on the floor of the museum (the museum staff was wonderful in helping get it cleaned right up); however, I would recommend the exhibit for children ages 6 and up...since they can read and will enjoy the interactive games much more.

Amelia did enjoy the rest of the museum very much. She loved the animals, dinosaurs, and as all 2 years do...the elevators.

There is definitely fun for the whole family to be had at the San Diego Natural History Museum!

A good day to check out the museum...November 1...Family Day...free with admission...see details here.

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

Moms Stay Fit At SeaWorld

In addition to all the world-class animal exhibits, shows and rides that SeaWorld is famous for, the marine-life park also provides a great venue for moms with young children to stay in shape.Two stroller fitness groups meet at the park each month: Baby Boot Camp gathers the second Thursday of each month, while Stroller Strides meets the third Wednesday. The programs are open to anyone, but are especially popular with SeaWorld’s annual Passport members. “The parents enjoy getting some exercise, and the kids have fun watching the birds, checking out the flowers and sometimes getting out and pushing their strollers themselves. Plus, it’s a great way to make new friends,” said Donna Parham, manager of SeaWorld Passport Member Services.

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

San Diego Mama Favorite: Soy Vay Veri Veri Teriyaki

My sister-in-law introduced me to Soy Vay's Veri Veri Teriyaki sauce. It is so delicious...you can use it as a marinade or a sauce. My favorite go-to meal is to chop veges (whatever I have) and stir-fry them in a touch of olive oil, grill some meatI(beef, chicken and fish all work) and add it to the veges, pour in some sauce and let it simmer. Cook some rice for the side and you have a delicious meal!

You can buy the sauce from their website but Vons and Costco both carry it as well!

Monday, August 25, 2008

Calendar Pick of the Week: Hullabaloo Concert

Hullabaloo Concert
Date: Thu. 8-28
Location: Pottery Barn: University Towne Center
City: UTC
Time: 10:00 AM & 11:00 AM
URL: http://hullabalooband.com/calendar.html
Price: Free


Friday, August 22, 2008

Weekend Happening: Wee Rock Music Festival

Wee Rock Music Festival
Date: Sun. 8-24
Location: Adams Recreation Center
City: San Diego
Time: Noon - 5:00 PM
URL: http://www.mission4music.org
The Wee Rock Music Festival is an annual free outdoor family music festival that benefits San Diego non-profit organizations. Funds raised at this year’s event will benefit ARTS -A Reason To Survive, Inc.In addition to live music from local bands playing family-friendly originals and children's favorites, the 2008 Wee Rock Music Festival will feature food and retail vendors, as well as raffle tickets for prizes (such as a musical instruments and spa packages) to be awarded during the event. Admission is free. All patrons are advised to bring a blanket or beach chair as this will be an outdoor picnic style event.

Monday, August 18, 2008

Mama Resource: WelcometoCoronado.com

I just found this great new website in San Diego devoted to all things Coronado...www.WelcometoCoronado.com.

The site includes:

  • visitor information
  • hotel information
  • summer concert schedules
  • farmers market info.
  • resources for kids on Coronado
  • and the list goes on and on...check it out!

I'm definitely going to use it to plan a weekend outing.

Meet the San Diego Mama Behind...

5 Mamas form Innovation Parenting...together they are a team of experienced professionals (psychologists, scientists, educators, recreation therapists, etc.) that are passionate about improving parenting through science and fun! Not only do they offer fun, informative mini-consultations to playgroups, but they will also do in-home consultations and family therapy.

Meet Cheryl, Chris, Kelly, Elizabeth & Erin!


(warning...this post is long, but all of these ladies have great insider information into living with kids in San Diego!)

Cheryl Rode
Why did you start your business?
Being a parent has been the most amazing experience of my life, and it can be a roller coaster ride! Parents have a hard time getting all the support they need and we wanted to make it easier for parents to get support, advice, knowledge, to be the best parent they can be. I happen to be surrounded by great parents with lots of parenting knowledge, so it just made sense to come together and give our support to other parents.

What is your favorite thing about running your business?
Working with other parents who want the best for their families and want to help other families is a wonderful experience. It's fun to create something innovative and accessible to parents. I love seeing happy children and parents together.

What is your all-time favorite thing about living in San Diego?
It's like living in "Family Vacationland" - there is no end to the activities you can do here! Zoo, parks, museums, beaches, mountains, perfect weather. As a parent, I have no trouble finding something awesome to do with my children.

Where is your favorite place to eat in San Diego?
My kids would say Rubio's, but I'll say Royal Thai downtown or La Jolla. My husband and I have been going there since we were poor college students. When I was going to school in West Virginia I would crave the spring rolls!

Where is your favorite place to go with your child/children in San Diego?
Balboa
Park
for anything, especially at the Holidays, and mornings at the beach any time of year.

Where is your favorite place to go without your child (with your husband or girlfriends)?
hmm, let me think about that... To be honest, I love to go shopping ALONE, so I can wonder the mall without pressure or distraction. I don't even mind coming home empty-handed. I just enjoy the freedom to browse. I do like going shopping with my husband, too, but we usually buy more for him on those dates.

Any insider San Diego secrets to share? There is a tiny beach next to the Bahia Resort at Mission Bay that is perfect for very young children - parking is free and easy, bathrooms are clean and close, water is clean and calm on that side of the bay. Also, Souplantation is a great way to get your kids to eat veggies, but go early before the lines.

Chris Bernet
Why did you start your business?
I have been a private practice psychologist for 10 years. I realized that I most enjoy working with parents to help them be the best they can be for their children. When Cheryl Rode approached me with the idea of joining her in starting Innovation Parenting, I jumped at the chance.

What is your favorite thing about running your business?
Being able to work with parents and children and watch how they start enjoying each other more and having fun together.

Where is your favorite place to eat in San Diego?
Since I am truly a southern
California gal, I would have to say Las Posta Mexican Restaurant on Third and Washington.

Where is your favorite place to go without your child (with your husband or girlfriends)?
My husband and I enjoy the many hikes
San Diego County has to offer.

Any insider San Diego secrets to share?
I just love the view from Il Fornio in
Del Mar. It has a charming patio where you can enjoy some wine and wonderful view.

Kelly O'Day
Why did you start your business?
To be able to continue to work but be home with my daughter. I feel that I have a lot to offer to families

What is your favorite thing about writing running your business?
The fact that I get to do what I went to school for, what I love to do and it is flexible to my schedule so that I can give 110% when I am working.


Where is your favorite place to eat in
San Diego?
Anywhere Mexican! I love Mexican food and I think that
San Diego has the best. I really love En Fuego in Del Mar but that is partly due to their amazing Mojitos as well!

Where is your favorite place to go with your child/children in San Diego?
The zoo and wild animal park. I feel like it is a different experience each time based on what other families I go with or what visitors from out of town are with us. It is nice to have the season pass because we never have to do the whole zoo or park, it is usually two hours, in an out, nap in the car on the way home, it fits nicely into both of our schedules!

Where is your favorite place to go without your child (with your husband or girlfriends)?
When I am not pregnant, dancing. When I am pregnant, which I have been for the most part of the past two years, out to a nice and quiet restaurant where I can have adult conversation and relax. That or a massage!

Any insider San Diego secrets to share?
The
School of Healing Arts in Pacific Beach is a great place to go and get an hour massage for a great price. It is a huge part of my sanity and well being. I love to shop at UTC, it is very easy to navigate and stroller friendly. On another note, avoid Horton Plaza with a stroller unless you know it very well. It took me 40 minutes and the verge of tears to get out of there with my daughter in her stroller last time!

Elizabeth Harris
Why did you start your business?
I joined forces with these women because I am passionate about happy children and happy families.

What is your favorite thing about writing running your business?
I love the flexibility and hope to some day work from home.

Where is your favorite place to eat in San Diego?
We like to go to Red Robin as a family, but as a couple we love to go to Rainwater’s on Kettner

Where is your favorite place to go with your child/children in San Diego?
I love to take Ryan to the Birch Aquarium. It is so peaceful and beautiful.

Where is your favorite place to go without your child (with your husband or girlfriends)?
Out to a nice quiet dinner or a movie, cliché I know, but it happens so rarely.

Any insider San Diego secrets to share?
I love UTC, it is a great mall to take kids to—good stores (Janie and Jack is my favorite), a train ride and a bounce house! Seagrove Park in Del Mar! This is such a beautiful place to take your children. Ryan always puts his arms up and laughs as we walk down 15th street approaching the water and swings (his favorite).

Erin Foley
Why did you start your business?
To be more involved with parents in the community and to promote the development of healthy family relationships. This business allows me and my colleagues to use the skills and resources we have to help families enjoy the time they spend together.

What is your favorite thing about running your business?
Having the flexibility to engage in many different activities and to engage in professional work that is both creative and rewarding.

Where is your favorite place to eat in San Diego?
Bombay in Hillcrest

Where is your favorite place to go without your child (with your husband or girlfriends) ?
Cinema Under the Stars

Any insider
San Diego secrets to share?
Sara Renee at Disconnected Salon in
North Park gives a great cut and style. The Golden Spoon in Hillcrest offers discounts on frozen yogurt every Tuesday - pairing that up with a trip to one of the museums in Balboa Park makes for a great day out.

Calendar Pick of the Week: Silly Sing A Long

Silly Sing-a-Long
Date: Thu. 8-21
Location: Java Mama
City: La Mesa
Time: 6:30 PM
URL: http://www.javamama.com
Wheels on the Bus, Itsy Bitsy Spider, and the Hokey Pokey come to life as Tim's rockin' alter ego takes the stage (in the play area) with everyone's favorite children's tunes. Kick it for 30 minutes of musical fun while you relax with your favorite cup, or join the kids for some high-energy, interactive fun. Thursdays at 6:30pm

Friday, August 15, 2008

Weekend Happening: Summer Concert @ Coronado Ferry Landing

Summer Concert Series
Date: Sat. 8-16
Location: Coronado Ferry Landing
City: Coronado
Time: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
URL: http://coronadovisitorcenter.com/coronado-events.html
1201 First St. Music from 2-4pm, Sat and Sun. Bring a blanket and picnic and enjoy the best view of San Diego. Big bands, small bands, jazz, rock and more. 987-5234

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Special Discount from Knot Heads

My daughter and I struggle every morning trying to wrangle her curly hair out of her face and into a ponytail. I know I'm not the only mama faced with this tear-inducing (both mom and daughter) struggle each morning.

Enter the mamas behind Knot Heads ...they have created the perfect hair accessory for girls of all ages...And, they are offering 10% off to all San Diego Mamas. Just enter 'mama' when you use the google checkout feature at www.knotheads.com.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Mama Vote Resource: LWV Takes a Stand on Issues

Along with the presidential election this year, there are several other issues on the ballot. Check out the issues and find out where the League of Women Voters stand.

Monday, August 11, 2008

Calendar Pick of the Week:

Screen on the Green 2008: Bye, Bye Birdie
Date: Thu. 8-14
Location: Balboa Park
City: San Diego
Time: 8:00 PM
URL: http://www.sdmart.org/calendar-screen-on-the-green.html
East Lawn, near the Botanical Building and the Casa del Prado. Free. Back by popular demand, Screen on the Green celebrates two must-see summer exhibitions: Georgia O’Keeffe and the Women of the Stieglitz Circle and Eleanor Antin: Historical Takes. Guest-curated by film buff Scott Marks, this series is generously sponsored by Phil and Lyn Gildred.
August 14 Bye-Bye Birdie (1963, G)

Thursday, August 7, 2008

Meet The San Diego Mama Behind...


Even though it's San Diego, we still experience some uncomfortable temperatures during the month of August. And its nice to have a place to go indoors where kids can still get all their wiggles out...like Playwerx. With a large playground structure, cafe, gourmet coffee and espresso and free wi-fi it sounds like Playwerx will make moms and kids happy!
Meet Joanne...the mama behind Playwerx. (And...check back later this month for my on location review)

How long have you lived here?
We have lived in Carlsbad for 4 yrs and moved here from Manhattan Beach.

Why did you start your business?
We saw a need and we wanted to do it our way! It was important for us to have a healthy play alternative for the kids, while creating a great space for the parents. It was something we had always been looking for and couldn’t find.

What is your favorite thing about writing running your business?
It’s hard work but it is so much fun seeing all the kids coming through here. It is especially fun to hear their expressions of joy and amazement when they see the play structure for the first time.

What is your all-time favorite thing about living in San Diego?
I love the beaches and the fact that you have easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches around.

Where is your favorite place to eat in San Diego?
For something on the high end I enjoy Pamplemousse, but I also love a good taco at Wahoo’s..

Where is your favorite place to go with your child/children in San Diego?
We love to go to the beach or the pool. I think my children were born with gills!

Where is your favorite place to go without your child (with your husband or girlfriends)?
My husband and I enjoy a good quiet dinner with some great wine whenever we have a chance to get away.

Any insider San Diego secrets to share?
Stay off the 5 freeway in the summer as much as you can!

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Pictures of San Diego Mama's Kiddos


I posted recently about Marlo Yoshimoto and her amazing talent behind the camera. I promised photos of my kids...and here they are! I think Marlo did such an amazing job. The studio is in her home, and it was so peaceful and lovely. She put on soft music and worked very quickly with my newborn. Her assistant even occupied Amelia with puzzles and coloring books so I could be with Miles while he was photographed. It was such a wonderful experience. Thanks Marlo!














Monday, August 4, 2008

Calendar Pick of the Week: Georgia O'Keeffe & The Women of the Stieglitz Circle

Georgia O’Keeffe and the Women of the Stieglitz Circle
Date:Now - September 28, 2008
Location: San Diego Museum of Art
City: san Diego
URL: http://www.sdmart.org
SDMA is the final and only West Coast venue for this nationally touring display of iconic works by O’Keeffe and the important women modernists who paved her way. Featuring over 80 works, the exhibition is the first to present pieces by all these women artists together in the same context. The women were all, at one point, promoted by famed New York gallerist and photographer Alfred Stieglitz, who later became O'Keeffe's husband. Become an SDMA member and see this unique exhibition for free! From now through the end of the exhibition's run, take advantage of discounted membership levels. For more information, please call (619) 696-1941 or email membership@sdmart.org.

Friday, August 1, 2008

Weekend Happening: Stephenie Meyer Midnight Release Party!

Tonight at 11:00 p.m. join Stephenie Meyer fans from around the city at Warwicks Bookstore for a Midnight Release Party for her new book Breaking Dawn.

Party includes:
Vampire Costume Contest
"Twilight" Zone Cafe
Cool Prizes (including Stephenie Meyer official t-shirts, Twilight Saga book bags, and gift cards)
Music with live DJ
Photo Mementoes
Graffiti Wall

...and much more!


For more information: www.warwicks.com