Kennedy Center's Multicultural Book Festival, Sat. November 3

This Saturday, November 3, from 12:00pm - 6:00pm, the Kennedy Center will be hosting it's 12th Annual Multicultural Book Festival. It's a fun, free event and great way to share the love of reading and books with a younger generation.

There will be guest speakers, authors, illustrators, musicians and a special appearance by daughter's favorite Dora, the Explorer.

For more information, visit http://www.kennedycenter.com/programs/specialevents/bookfestival/

Check out our review of Dearjohnnies on Capitol Moms-2-be

Dearjohnnies: special gowns for special deliveries. Thoughtfully-designed hospital gowns for mommas-to-be by Rachel Zinny. The gowns feature snap-down sleeves for easy breastfeeding access and snaps down the back to give you a little more coverage from behind. I wish that I had had one for the birth of my daughter -- I am glad to have one for the delivery of our second.

A definite pick for a hospital bag pick-me-up. Shop at www.dearjohnnies.com

Review posted at Capitol Moms Maternity Edition.

What Z is reading now: Good Night Washington, DC

"Goodnight, Washington, DC. Night, night book. Goodnight, Lovely." is part of our nightly routine now. My daughter found this great little book at Olsson's near Dupont a few weeks ago and it has been come part of our routine.

We read and she loves the pictures of the monuments and the cherry blossoms and a really cute one of the justices. She loves the pictures of the boats in the Potomac and we use it as a teaching tool when we go out for walks around the Tidal Basin.

What is really neat about the series by Adam Gamble is that they tour the world through books. There is Goodnight Texas, Goodnight Boston and about 30 others with more coming in the upcoming months.

To buy or to view other books in the series, visit their site at: http://www.goodnightourworld.com/GNWashington.htm

DIVAs Having a Sale!!!

I have heard such fabulous things about this fabulous shop in Alexandria... it's called DIVA Boutique and now is a great time to check them out. They have having a party celebrating their birthday and the gifts are for you -- discounts on already reduced prices and unique consignment goodies that any momma will adore.

Check them out at http://www.divaboutiqueva.com

A Healthy Start resource for new Parents

Through my work with new moms, I sometimes come across resources that I can't wait to share and here's one, the Healthy Start, Grow Smart Book series from a collaboration of agencies.

What I love is that it is easy read, provides useful information and answers those everyday questions that new moms and moms that have been there, but its been a long time all have.

The series is divided by months and starts with the newborn and walks the parent through the first year of life.

It's free and available via download or you could order shrink-wrapped copies for free at the same site.

Livie's Wings to Support a Great Cause

Who doesn't love butterflies and smiles? Livie and Luca, an European-inspired, hand-made children's footwear company founded by local mamas, are offering a special opportunity to support the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Society.

With every pair of the adorable Livie's Wings that is sold 10% will be donated to the society in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Shop at www.livieandluca.com

FREE Potty Training Guide at Pampers.com

Who doesn't love a coupons and an informational guide from a company that you already love and trust.

When I was pregnant with my Z, I got a tip to sign-up on all the diaper companies websites, so that I could receive samples and coupons while my daughter was still in diapers. I did and we are still reaping the benefits. I found out which brands I love, which ones are just ok and which ones I will avoid like the plague.

From www.pampers.com comes great, "Gifts to Grow" and regular coupons and milestone informational packets via mail, my Z is just under 2 and now we are receiving the potty-training guides -fully equipped with tips and special deals.

To receive yours, visit Pampers.com or click the link above.

BabyCenter Store Deal: Free Shipping on all orders of $29 or more

We have just joined the BabyCenter Affiliate Program, which offers great deals to our readers as well as keeping us up to date with some of the newest products and deals for moms, families and moms-to-be.

Mocha Moms Event from DC Baby

Another great site for DC Area Moms: www.dc-baby.com.

October 8: Mocha Moms event in College Park

Thanks to DCB reader Chanda for sharing this with us:

The Northern Prince George's County, MD chapter of Mocha Moms will host its Third Annual Home Business Extravaganza on Monday, October 8 (the Columbus Day holiday) from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Holiday Inn-College Park (10000 Baltimore Blvd.). Admission is FREE, and all are welcome.

Here's a description of the event:
"Have you wanted to stay home with your family but were skeptical of work-from-home offers? Have you been looking for ways to earn extra income so that you could have more time for other interests? If so, this event is for you. Fifty reputable home businesses, door prizes, children's activities, and great shopping!"

For more info, send email to: web-at-mochamomsnpgc-dot-org.