Rockabye Baby: Lullabies with an edge

A couple of weeks ago, we had the pleasure of reviewing the latest from celeb-favorite Rockabye Baby, a series of lullabies based on rock legends like U2, Green Day, Queen and the upcoming Aerosmith.

I have to admit, at first I was a little leary, rock lullabies. Ok, it was fantastic. You hear the strains of "We are the Champions" and you find yourself humming along as the short people are falling to sleep (and to get ready to in the morning at my house too).

We sent a couple of copies out to mommas to review and heard equally fabulous commentary, "Dear Hubby thinks this rocks!", "Can we get another?" "What a good idea! We listen just about every night."

To hear some of the fabulous lullabies and to order your copy, visit www.rockabyebabymusic.com

NYT Article about Picky Lunch Eaters

My mom sent me this article about a solution for picky lunch eaters. I know first hand how aggravating it is try to figure out what will make the perfect connection between lunch box and kiddie tummy.

I am still trying to figure it out. Here's a Times solution.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/07/health/nutrition/07recipehealth.html?_r=1&hpw

Rainy Day Activity: Sorting the Memories with MomAgenda's

When I was at home just after giving birth to my daughter, her Grandmother gave her a really sweet present a book of memories of her father from his first steps until his slight cocky-a bit awkward high school graduation. It started me thinking about recording memories, which I am horrible at. I have a great big box of pictures and little memorablia, ticket stubs and notes that I intend to scrapbook one day.



So when I received momAgenda's School Years Organizer, I was thrilled. It is a beautiful, simple way to organize and not miss a memory and create a great gift that you can prepare for the future and have for memories-sake. It's super easy with pockets, prompts and slots for pictures, thoughts and report cards. It looks beautiful and makes it easy.

To get yours or to learn more, visit www.momAgenda.com

DLL Rainwear: making the monsoon so adorable,,,,

Ok, so today the monsoon hit DC this afternoon. As I type, I am watching the lightening show from my Arlington window. Gorgeous, and as I think about the crocks that need to be mud-stripped -- I wish I had ordered our DLL Rainwear -- the adorable penguin umbrella and matching raincoat -- earlier in the week.


Check this out. Adorable. Unique Raingear. I can see my Zenora strutting down the mall with her little penguin guiding the way.

To order yours, use this exclusive discount "DCMAMA15" for DCMama and Capitol Moms readers 15% off at www.dllrainwear.com

CM Favorite: Mrs. Meyer's Clean Day Baby Blossom Surface and Freshening Sprays

It's summer and I've taken it upon myself to do a little really, late "Spring" Cleaning, but with a 3 year old and a 1 year old, who wants all those nasty smelling chemicals to do a job that you probably don't want to do anyway.

Then when strolling the local Whole Foods, I stumbled upon Mrs. Meyers Baby Blossom Surface Spray and Freshening Spray.

Two words: LOVE THEM!

I dumped out the block bin, found some crazy stuff inside and then sprayed everything down. I loved the smell, the way that random crayon marks seemed to disappear and how easy it was. The freshening spray has become a great light linen spray and just a little spray does it.

Shop now for a 20% discount at www.mrsmeyers.com

See Kai Run's 25% off Summer Sandal Sale

Shop now at www.seekairun.com

On TV: Princess Protection Program on Disney Channel This Weekend

On Friday, June 26, 8pm, The Princess Protection starring Camp Rock's Demi Lovato and Wizards Of Waverly Place's Selena Gomez airs tonight.

A sweet, family-friendly, tween-lovable tale of two girls that learn the meaning of being a princess. I screened this with my 17 yr old sister and 3 year old daughter snuggled with a big bowl of buttery popcorn and found that we all laughed, smiled and giggled along with the movie -- and that the movie kept all of our attention (a definite plus with a 3 yer old -- still in her princess mode). As a mom, it was really nice to see two teens that were not overly exposed and living all too grown up lives and situations, as the starring models... I have to admit that it reminds me of why I like Disney Originals.

Grade: B+

Check the website for more details and future airings.

For more information, see www.disney.com/princessprotectionprogram

EVENT: The 17th Annual Safeway National Barbeque Challenge

Come see some of the nation's best grillers and barbeque champions at the 17th Annual Safeway Barbeque Challenge.

As a transplant Texan, barbeque is a serious thing... and I'm looking forward to a taste off.

For tickets and more information, visit http://www.bbqdc.com/

Wear your heart on your wrist: Juicy Love Knots

I saw this bracelet and thought it was so cute, a great addition to a summer bangle collection... to give a fun and substance to the flighty, jingle of silver and gold.



Available now at www.juicycouture.com, $35

EVENT: 3rd Annual Ibero-American Guitar Festival at the National Musuem of the American Indian

Information from their newsletter:

"JUNE 19 – 21 Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

The National Museum of the American Indian hosts the
3rd Ibero-American Guitar Festival

The Ibero-American Guitar Festival of Washington, D.C., brings together the best performers on guitar and guitar-related instruments from the Americas, Spain, and Portugal.

Daytime events are free and open to the public, though seating is limited and available on a first-come, first-seated basis. Evening concerts require tickets. For complete schedule and information on purchasing tickets, visit www.dciberoamericanguitarfestival.org, or call 202-633-1000. Some tickets may be available at the door during the festival."

2009 Capital Hospice Cup benefitting Capital Hospice

Tickets ranging from $10 General Admission to $2000 Sponsorships available.

Special Dove for Dove Release to honor the memory of a loved one, special opportunity $50.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit https://www.capitalhospiceevents.org/hospicepolocup/Default.aspx

DCMama Connect: Connect with other Mamas in 140 Characters or less

Who doesn't love to meet other people and just say hi and converse with a common thread that ties you all together.

What a better tie than motherhood? The folks at TodaysMama, DCMama's parent company, have done just that with Connect, a micro-blogging tool, similar to Twitter, that lets you say what you need to say in just a few words.

To Connect, visit http://www.todaysmama.com/connect/group/dc

Hoop Mama: Twist to Fit : FREE Class on June 17th with childcare available

Last week, I spoke with the vivacious and fun Jocelyn Gordon of Hoop Mama Fitness. She is passionate about helping women reach their health goals and making the most of their time as mothers and enjoy their fitness experiences.

She shared with us the following information about the program.

"Hoop Dance is the return of Hula Hooping as an exercise, meditation and entertainment art! This practice uses colorful adult size hoops, rhythmic music and massage like moves to bring you to an immediate state of fun, joy and bliss."

Hoop Mama! Prenatal and Postpartum Fitness Series
FREE for pregnant DC Mamas attending the June 17 class

In Class Childcare Provided with Reservation * $3 per child
Wednesdays, 10:45am - 11:45am * through July 8, 2009

Center Dance Company, Falls Church, VA * www.hoopdancedc.com

facilitated by Jocelyn Gordon - bodyworker and movement educator specializing in prenatal and postpartum fitness: jocelyn@lovemovementhealingarts.com * 571-235-6374

Away We Go: A Road Trip with a Heart and a Soul

In a nutshell: A young couple with a baby-on-way sets off on a air and road trip to find where they will call home. After jaunting from place to place with adventures and some hilarious friends and family, the couple finds a place to belong.

I went to the movie, all set not to like it, but open to it, as I am not a SNL fan --long story, way too silly, but enough on that. The first seconds of the movie start with an attempted oral sex-ing, yep, oral sex and the commentary that could be provided on such an event. I was shocked and set to leave, but was intrigued as were the people around me.

But as the minutes wore un-noticeably on, Away We Go wrapped its arms around me like a bear hug and held me (and my attention) to the end. I loved it. Not for kids, but it was sweet and touching. I laughed like I hadn't in a movie for a good while. I was horrified by their hilarious family and friends, rooted for them to succeed and looked forward to seeing where they would settle. Maya Rudolph and John Krasinski were convincing, loveable and endearing. Overall, a good time to be had by most everyone. And from the laughs and sighs in the theatre, I wasn't alone.

Away We Go - earns a A-, good time, fun movie, alittle crass but no bad.
In theatres now.

Wanted: Your Family for DC's Kids Resturaunt Week

Delicious Eats. Your Family. Special Prices. What's not to love?

Join us this week in celebrating the brilliant idea that is Kid's Restaurant Week, June 13 - June 21. Some of DC's best like Art'N'Soul, Mie'N'You, Wasabi and Zola are offering early dinner seatings from 5:00pm - 7:00pm, special prix fixe menus for adults ($29) and children under 11 will pay just $1 per year of their age and even better, a portion of the proceeds benefit local children's charities like Miriam's Kitchen.


For more information and to reserve your space, visit http://www.kidsrestaurantweek.com/dc.asp

Lusting after Linea Pelle Right Now at Billiondollar Babes!

Most any one who knows me knows that I love handbags, purses , clutches -- even though most times, I carry a great big leather bag, my personal fave.

I have to admit though, I love a great sale even better and Billiondollar Babes is a great way to get both fixes covered.

Right now, my I am checking out the Nikki clutch, perfect for slipping into another bag with the essentials and coming out polished when it is all done.

To register for this special members only club as my guest-- click the link below.

"www.billiondollarbabes.com

Daytrips around DC: Seeking ideas...

With the upcoming season... we are planning a series of daytrips and babymoon features. What are your favorites? Where would you like to go? Better yet, where would you love to win a weekend trip?

Look for a with the kids and adult alone time features for local and relatively local trips in the upcoming 3 weeks.

If you have any suggestions, send us an email at info@capitolmoms.org or would love to be entered to win, sign up for the newsletter to the right.

Best,
Teia

Join us tonight at Aidah's One Year Birthday Party!

EVENT: Art, Drink and Be Merry at The Sackler Gallery in DC

A fun event courtesy of The Sackler Gallery...
Thursday, June 4
6:30�11:30 PM
Arthur M. Sackler Gallery

Art, Drink, and Be Happy!

On June 4, the Sackler Gallery opens its doors for an evening of art, dance, and creative fun!
Indulge your senses in Asia and get your weekend started in style at the newest after-hours series at the Smithsonian�s Freer and Sackler Galleries. Explore the arts of Asia, sip cocktails, and mix and mingle to Persian electronic drum-and-bass music by DJ Delbar from RadioJavan.com. Enjoy food tastings from area restaurants, dance performances by the Silk Road Dance Company, hands-on art activities, and raffle prizes.

Cash bar is available for wine, beer, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the evening.

You must be at least 21 years old with a valid ID to attend this event.

TICKETS
$15 (In advance until June 1)
$18 (Limited number available at the door; cash only)
Includes one free drink ticket

Think I have a new show, Southern Belles: Louisville

Alright, I have to admit. I've got a thing for reality TV. I know it's a guilty pleasure and now one that combines my love and affinity for all things Southern, after all, I was born and bred a proud Texan, is Southern Belles: Louisville on SOAPnet.

I saw a preview and a teaser on The View and it sounds like good fun, big hair and drama, all rolled into one. Click here. I love it.

To catch a glimpse of The View interview, visit www.soapnet.com

LOCAL EVENT: June 1, Everybody Wins DC Charity Event

Purchase tickets at http://www.everybodywinsdc.org/events.php
Courtesy of Bisnow DC

Backstage at the UniverSoul Circus: A Circus with a Hip-Hop Heart and a Soul Beat

I have to admit I hadn't been to the circus in at least 20 years. I was a small girl running around fascinated and slightly afraid of the elephants and wondering if the tigers in the cage were afraid. But when I heard about the UniverSoul Circus that is currently playing (until May 31st) at Capital Plaza Mall in Landover Hills, Maryland, I was curious.

As a mom of kids that love animals, I thought this would be a perfect event for my kids and it was, but it was even more fun for me. We went on a rainy night last weekend. We met some fantastic, amazing folks from all over the world, China, Trindad, Tobago, the Dominican Republic and Ghana.

We were amazed by little white tigers, a troupe of acrobats that twirled, swirled and balanced. It was fantastic, but the part that got me most was the vibe. The air was electric with energy and the scent of funnel cake and popcorn. The show moved quickly with the easy transitions, eye catching displays, elephant riding and the "Madea"-inspired Mistress of Ceremonies. My 3 year old had never seen anything like it and has been talking it about it ever since, particularly the Bird Man (a dancer in Carnival dress with amazing white wings) and the "Wimbo Wadies" (the Limbo Ladies) that danced below the flames in sparkling Carnival garb.

Good times were had by all. Thanks to the UniverSoul Team and Kristin Parker.

Details: We went to a show that started around 7:30pm. Think and plan ahead, as no strollers are allowed under the big top and the show lasts around 3 hours. There are most often 2 shows per day and is running in DC from May 14, 2009 - May 31, 2009.

Tickets and more information available at www.UniverSoulCircus.com

Pictures coming soon....

Redefining Comfort: with Sofft Shoes

Sofft makes some of the most comfortable shoes that I know. Here is a great opportunity to try them out if you haven't yet.

Visit them at http://www.sofftshoe.com

Children's Cabaret at the American Indian Musuem of the Smithsonian

A special event at the Smithsonian's American Indian Musuem...

"Children's Cabaret Concert: The Incredible Adventures of Mary Jane Mosquito
Friday, May 1, 2009, 10:30 a.m.

Saturday, May 2, 2009, Noon

Rasmuson Theater

FREE and OPEN to the public
The Incredible Adventures of Mary Jane Mosquito by Canadian playwright, novelist and children's author, Tomson Highway (Cree) is a one-woman show featuring Canadian singer and actor, Patricia Cano, who tells the life story of a young mosquito from northern Manitoba named Mary Jane, who also happens to be the only mosquito in the history of the world born without wings! Can she survive? Come to find out and see her sing her heart out! Audiences are given Mary-Jane's Sing-Along Song Book, which includes adaptation of children's songs often with Cree lyrics incorporated."

May 5th event in NYC: Ricki Lake Booksigning at Citibabes

If you happen to be in the NYC area, why not stop by for this event. Be sure to RSVP, space is limited.

Chatting with Playhouse Disney's Imagination Movers Rich Collins

Last week, we caught up with Rich to talk about life, parenthood, and all that new with the Imagination Movers. We caught up with the happy father of 5 in Louisiana, playing with his newest addition, nine-month old, Hank on break from shooting the hit show, Imagination Movers, on Playhouse Disney. They have a special new Indiana Jones themed episode with some new rockin’ songs coming up this Saturday, March 21.

MsDCMama: Hi Rich, it’s been a long while. Since the White House Easter Egg Roll, and with so much new going on, would you share a little about the Movers show on Playhouse Disney.

Rich Collins: No problem. The show is designed to encourage kids towards creativity. The show features 4 musical friends that work together to musically have adventures, solve problems, model teamwork, respect for friends, creativity and innovation.

MDCM: It’s definitely a Saturday morning favorite at my house. I love to see my little ones singing along and rockin’ it to music. How do you come up with songs that kids and adults both love?

Rich: That’s awesome. We love to getting email (use the email link at www.imaginationmovers.com ) and feedback from viewers. (Sweetly enough, they still respond to every letter – so drop them a line.) Actually, we write and play all of our own music. A lot of it comes from the things we experience as dads everyday like someone being scared of the dark, sharing with you siblings and cleaning up your room. To have our music connect with people is really neat.



MDCM: So what’s new with The Imagination Movers?

Rich: It’s a great season for us. We’ve got a giant tidal waves of activities, (including) shooting the upcoming second season of the show with 25 new episodes, cool improvements to the show and just some all around good things. One neat thing is that we are wrapping up our first soundtrack (a May Target exclusive) of about 20 songs from the first season of the show called For Those About To Hop and a DVD from the same season.

MDCM : All Good Things. We loved y’alls live show, will y’all be coming back to town anytime soon?

Rich: Actually in the Fall, we will be starting our first big US tour, hitting major theatres around the country. We are bound to be somewhere in the DC area.

DCM: Well keep us posted. We would love to rock out again. With so much going on, how do you balance the demands of booming career and fatherhood?

Rich: I won’t lie it’s a hard balance. We’ve got 4 guys having the adventure of our lives and everything else keeps going like the carpool, laundry, ect. ect. Sometimes the burden falls on our wives, but they do the best they can. One thing that really works in our favor is the ebb and flow of the business. Sometimes we are very available, but then sometimes we are not. But something I really value is showing your kids how you can use your imagination and follow through with your dreams to create a job that you really want to do and love to do. Not just sitting behind some desk because you think you have to.

DCM: I can totally agree with that. It sounds like all good things are on the horizon for the Movers. We look forward to seeing where The Movers go from here. hear Henry calling. Thanks for spending time with us.

To hear more of The Imagination Movers music, visit www.ImaginationMovers.com and to see the hit show, that has become a family favorite in our house, check them out on Playhouse Disney.

Come follow me on Twitter...

I have just discovered Twitter within the last couple of weeks. It cracks me up and you should be warned and is highly addictive.

It's like facebook, but faster and I love the way that you get connected in a very fast way and learn a little about a lot in short period of time. You pass on a message, an update, an event, and learn about the writer in 146 characters or less.

Come follow me at www.twitter.com/msdcmama

Benefiting Fashion for Paws and the Washington Humane Society

Are you looking for a good reason to get out of the City?

Why not spend the day in Virginia Hunt Country for a day philanthropic activities benefiting Fashion for Paws and The Washington Humane Society?

The day starts with exclusive tours of the Boxwood Winery, lunch at The French Hound and then a special dinner and silent auction at The Red Fox Inn. It's a day not to be missed and a good reason to venture out and partake in the beautiful scenary that is Middleburg.

For more information and an invitation, email F4PmeetsMiddleburg2009@gmail.com and to view the invitation click here.

Opera Night at Bethesda's Sorrento Trattoria - A Fantastic Reason to Get Dressed for Dinner

Last Sunday night, I treated myself to a fabulous dinner and performance at Sorrento Trattoria in Bethesda. It was an evening not to be missed.

I was a little nervous about driving to Bethesda with the warning for several inches of snow, but the weather held off until my ride back to Virginia. I cannot say how fabulous my experience was and I thought how beautifully the night would have fit into a romantic adventure or a sweet treat for you and a couple of girlfriends. It reminded me of how much fun going out to dinner can be. Think of old Hollywood movies and the sweet aroma of really good, homestyle Italian and you will be on the right track for the evening.

Dolled up in a fabulous cocktail dress, I and the rest of the intimate dining room were serenaded with beautifully rendered, classic selections from La Boehme and The Marriage of Figaro with sprinklings of well-known Broadway favorites all while I sighed to a seriously luscious combination of ricotta, basil and meltingly fresh pasta and the seared shrimp salad with fava beans and roasted vegetables was a tasty start to a leisurely meal.

The time passed more quickly than I had noticed and the experience was a delight to the senses. Come hungry and expect to linger while being pampered and pleasured. Plan to spend a couple of hours at the once monthly dinner and call early as seats for the First Sunday performance fill quickly. I know that one seat will be mine.

To join me or to learn more visit, www.trattoriasorrento.com and let them know that you found them through Teia at Capitol Moms.

Tips and Sweepstakes via DC Scout

I am a skimmer. I read online and hard copy newspapers, magazines, e-zines and the like. I have a particular love of fashion, food and family activities, hence the content of this blog.

One of my favorite, quick reads on Tuesday and Thursday are The Washington Post's DC Scout. It is a great way to keep caught up on the local sales, events and fashion related happenings in the city and on the web, like the $500 Sweepstakes from James Perse, via StyleMaven.

To sign up for the newsletter, visit www.dcscout.com

To sign-up, visit www.dcscout.com

What we are doing on this Snowy Day: Sprout Online and Muffins

I love Snowdays. I love watching the snow billow and blow outside, provided that I have enough good things to eat and enough things to do.

One of my stand by activities is Sprout-Online, a site designed for pre-schoolers by PBS Kids. It's the online supplement to the HD and Cable channel, Sprout. There are short videos, educational activities, coloring pages, games and easy-to-do, simple to follow activities for parent and child that make for memorable and painless times for you and your loved, little ones.

I also love to bake something on Snow Days. The smell of something warm and sweet baking makes me a very happy woman and is a sweet way for the kids to wake up. Today's recipe was a variation on Nigella Lawson's Pear Ginger Muffins, except I added a capful of vanilla, and subbed finely chopped apples for the pear, whole milk yogurt for the sour cream, and cinnamon for the ginger. They turned out fantastic.

Below is my modification on Nigella's Original Recipe, taken from one of my use-again and again cookbooks, Nigella Express, available in our amazon e-store.

1 3/4c flour
1 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon cinnamon

2/3 cup plain whole milk yogurt or 1 small container of babyfood peaches (Gerber Organics stage 2) plus 1 tbsp milk
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1 tablespoon molasses
2 eggs
1 capful good vanilla
1 fist-sized apple peeled and finely chopped

1) Preheat oven to 400F and line a 12 cup muffin pan with paper muffin liners.
2) Measure all dry ingredients into a small bowl. Stir together.
3) In a large bowl, mix together all remaining ingredients until a smooth color and egg is all blended.
4) Dump dry ingredients into wet ones and fold together, just until mixed.
5) Divide evenly among the muffin cups. Sprinkle with sugar, if the sparkly look is desired. Bake for about 20 minutes until golden brown on the edges and done.

Note: The strained peaches and milk are a great way to lower the fat content and help to produce a really pretty golden color and up the flavor without adding too much sugar. I generally use one container of the Gerber Organics stage 2 Twin-pack or Earth's Best.

A Sweet Valentine Download from Sarah Drake

Oh, what a sweet way to make a valentine. Why don't you print this free download and let the kiddies decorate it and give it your partner?

Or you could decorate it with sweet nothings and wishes for you and yours?

Either way, it's adorable, free and easy. Three of our favorite things.



To download the above card, just visit www.sarahdrakedesign.com

Read Inauguration Letter by CM founder at TodaysMama.com

For so many, Inauguration was such a memorable historic event. Capitol Moms founder Teia Collier spent the day with millions at the National Mall sharing this moment in history.

When she came back she wrote a letter to her children about her experience and the people she met. Read her letter at TodaysMama.

www.todaysmama.com while you are there check out the DCMama page for listings and news from the area.

Happy Inauguration Day!

What a lovely time to live in the Metro DC area? To be present in this city, the only place like it in the world.

We trekked through the cold, celebrated and listened intently to our new President give us his vision for the future. We watched the turning of a page and the ushering in of a new administration.

He gave us a call to action and asked for our support to change the tide of relations and circumstances in America.

We are a blessed few and I am happy and proud, as I have always been, but even more so today, to be called an American.

Happy Inauguration Day, blessings and best wishes to the Bush Family and congratulations to the Obama family.