See Kai Run's Big Blog Giveaway

Capitol Moms and See Kai Run have come together for a great Fall giveaway in honor of the change of seasons and the recent launch of their new Smaller line. To see previous CM coverage, click here

Here's how you what you could win:




Here's how you win:
Send an email to info@capitolmoms.org (info(AT)capitolmoms.org) with "See Kai Run" in the subject line. Tell Capitol Moms your favorite Fall Family Activity. Be sure to include your mailing address, desired size and contact information.

See more of their line and shop at www.seekairun.com
Good luck!
- CM

Ready to "Inform, Enrich and Inspire" local mamas - DC Mama hits the city!

Teia Collier, founder of Capitol Moms Motherhood Resource Service, has joined forces with the Today's Mama family to launch DC Mama coming live and in full force on November 10, 2008.

We look forward to celebrating Motherhood with monthly events, local mom-prenuer spotlights, exclusive partnerships, sales and deals with local and national shops and boutiques, exclusive family finds for the area that are sure to make DC sparkle. Look for The DC Mama Handbook coming in the fall of 2009.

To learn more, visit www.dcmama.com

CM Reads Review: City Walks with Kids DC - Enjoy the city like a tourist, only better.

We were looking for something fun and cheap to do with our kids, without leaving the city and without a lot of planning.... enter City Walks with Kids DC, a glove box keeper. City Walks actually makes it easy to pick a card, pack a diaper back and just go.

City Walks with Kids DC by Ingrid Roper Catron is a keeper for our family. It's a day trip in a box, well actually about 50 kid-friendly day trips with maps in a box. Each card is chock full of information for an easy family outing: 4 to 5 stops, touristy and local haunts alike plus a fun place for a treat and little snippets of trivia to make the trip lively. Our favorite component is the tri-fold map that connects all the trips together and prevents our favorite habit of getting lost in a city that we love.

It's a must for new families in the area or natives that have never been around to see the sites.

Available for $14.95 at www.Chronicle Books.com

Busytown at Imagination Stage starts today, Sept. 27

UPDATE: We took Zenora and Sollie to go see this show on Sunday afternoon and it was adorable. There was the sounds of little giggles and smiles from the audience and an adorable set. I have to say it's an amazing show that keeps my 2 year old's attention. As an educator and mom, I love the literacy encouraging elements of the show as well as the catchy songs and age appropriate content. It's an excellent show! Catch it before it goes.


Thankfully, my little girl is a reader (well-pre-reader) and my little boy is a book-eater, but I am confident that it will turn into a love of reading and one of their favorites are the Richard Scarry books featuring Busytown.

The super-fabulous folks at Imagination Stage, known for great children's theater, have created a special show for those aged 2 and up. Here's a short blurb about the show.

Big day today!” is how the characters greet each other in Busytown, Richard Scarry’s vividly drawn world. As the day unfolds, Grocer Cat, Stitches the Tailor, and Alfalfa the Farmer tell of their jobs in silly songs and scenes. One catchy number explores vehicles from the Broom O’Cycle to the Pickle Car, another, sung by Able Charlie Baker, describes goodies from donuts to biscotti, and there’s even a sea shanty from Captain Salty. Young children love to see their favorite animal characters brought to life while older siblings enjoy this tuneful trip down memory lane!
Enjoyed by all ages!

It runs today through November 2.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.imaginationstage.com

Dear readers...

Thank you for your patience and continued support in our extended break. We took some much needed rest and recharge time.

Now we are up and running again... like the busy, multi-taskers that we are. We look forward to launching our new format in the upcoming weeks as we strive to bring the best and the brightest to your in-box and door-step.

For more information on partnering or other goodies you'd love to see, drop us a line at info@capitolmoms.org

Kids Busy Box: Hours of Fun

Let me tell you about a fabulous product created by local Rockville mamas that I love for my Zenora, The Kids Busy Box - Deluxe Edition. It is a craft box with instructions and everything (and I mean everything) that your little artist needs to be able to create fun stuff.

The first thing we made was the little royalty crown. It occupied my daughter for 45 minutes as she put little stars on a crown and watched the glue dry. It was crazy easy and a very precious gift to a busy mama -- time. We laughed, took pics and watched her talk about colors and shapes while building another great memory.

I recommend that every house have at least one of these kits; it's a lifesafer and a great present for grampies and nanas too.

Happy crafting. To get yours visit, www.kidsbusybox.com

SALE: Tent Sale at Shoe Fly in Arlington

Hey Other Shoe loving Mamas-

The fabulous Shoe-fly is having their annual tent sale this Saturday, August 9 from 10am - 4pm. Here is a little from their ad.

"A glimpse of prices YOU will find at the tent sale:

SHOES - $10, $20, $30 piles
BOOTS - $20, $30, $40 piles
HANDBAGS - $12, $20, $30 bins
JEWELRY - $3-$8


Please keep in mind, tent sale items are final sales. Items are sold in as-is condition. No gift wrapping for tent sale items. Please try and use cash for sales $10 or less.
We look forward to seeing you this Saturday!

Location of Tent Sale: 2727 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA 22201
Note: Tent Sale at Arlington, VA Location ONLY"

Happy Shopping!

Follow-up to Panera Bread and INOVA Fairfax Event

Congratulations to Baby Bryce! His namesake bagel will be served at local Panera bakeries starting August 1st.




To locate your local Panera, visit www.panerabread.com

Yum - Free Ciao Bella Gelato Scoops

As a part of Ciao Bella's 100,000 scoop summer "Discover-Savor-Share" tour, the Ciao Bella Swirl will be visiting local shops, including the Clarendon Whole Foods (8/13; 4pm-7pm) and the Pentagon City Harris Teeter (8/15; 4pm-7pm) doling out free scoops along the way.

For a listing of local hot stops, visit http://www.ciaobellagelato.com

Real Mom Eats: Tortilla Pizzas

At my house, as parents of two little ones, full time jobs and running a small business, we find that we are pressed for time and often hungry. One of our go-to snacks are Tortilla Pizzas. With as little as 3 ingredients and about 10 minutes, you can have a yummy snack that even my two year old will eat.

Here's what we use:
4 flour tortillas
Jarred Spaghetti Sauce (we like Newman's Own Marinara or Ragu' Robusto), about 2 tablespoons per tortilla
Shredded Cheese (we like use Sargento's 4 Cheese Italian)
An oiled cookie sheet
Any other toppings you like, we use shredded spinach, sausage, leftover chicken, ect.

Preheat the oven to 425F.
Place the the tortillas on the oiled cookie sheet.
Spread about 2 tablespoons of sauce per tortilla, sprinkle with cheese and toppings.
Bake for about 10 minutes or until hot and bubbly with golden brown edges.

Date night: Resturaunt Week is coming to DC and Bethesda

Three reasons why you should take part of this DC area tradition

1) It's an excuse to go out to a nice restaurant.
2) You and the hubby need some adult time.
3) You get to eat really good food and get all dolled up.

With more than 200 dining establishments participating, you are bound to find a new favorite.

For DC reservations, visit Open Table

For more information about Bethesda's events, visit www.Bethesda.org

Fun treat: Trunk Show in the Hamptons, August 21, 2008, 10am - 4pm

Citibabes, a rockin' one-stop place of family love in New York, has teamed up with your favorite children's brands like Marie Chantal, Hatch, Pink Chicken to put on a trunk show in the Hamptons. It sounds like a fun treat for mom and the little ones with activities and childcare on-site. What's not to love?

To RSVP: send an email to retail@citibabes.com

EVENT: Family-Friendly Environmental Festival, "Outdoors at Mammoth"

This looks to be a super-cool event for those that want to trek to Mammoth Lakes, CA for a last-minute summer vacation before school gets rolling. It is geared to families with children aged 5-16, but all are welcome.

For more information, visit www.outdoorsinmammoth.com

Pre-season sale at Harold's

As I have said before, I love a good sale and I've made a decision about my wardrobe. Let go of the sentimental attachment and only wear things that make me feel and look fabulous -- like a hip mama without the curse of "mommy jeans".

That being said, one of my favorite haunts for great basics is Harold's. I discovered them while I was in Dallas and was pleasantly surprised to find one at Tyson's II.

Right now, is their pre-season sale. You can find great pieces at up to $75 off -- now that's a good deal.

Visit Harold's at www.harolds.com or for more savings try, www.haroldscloseout.com

Everyday luxuries at The Silken Thread

Not everyday, do I run across a great shop. I tend to find, like most moms, a few favorites and occasionally, venture out to try a new one. The Silken Thread, an online embroidery boutique by local mama Laura Swanstrom Reece, is one of those great finds.

With treats like Bon Bon dresses and rompers, Irish linen bibs and the sweetest little embroidered shoes, you are sure to find a treat at The Silken Thread. Above is a glimpse of some of the goodies available.

As a special treat to Capitol Moms readers, enter the code "CAPMOMS" to receive 20% off of your purchase. Shop at www.thesilkenthread.com

CM Reads: Jude Deveraux's Return to Summerhouse

I am a reader, always have, probably always will be, and when it gets hot outside, I love to curl up under the ceiling fan and read. Now that I have little ones, nap time is a time to squeeze in a few pages between laundry, blog posts and dinner prep.

One of my latest reads is Jude Deveraux's Return to Summerhouse, available in our Amazon Store and at local booksellers nationwide.

This is the story of three women, Amy, Zoe and Faith, unexpected friends in need of healing, that come together with the help of Madame Zoya to step back in time to undo a tragedy of the past. The journey to the 18th century teaches them about love, healing, friendship and the power of choices.

Return to Summerhouse was a fast, satisfying read that tugged my heartstrings that made me smile in the end.

Now Showing at Imagination Stage: The Neverending Story, June 24 through August 10

The children's classic by Michael Ende, The Neverending Story is now showing at Bethesda's Imagination Stage. Most suitable for children ages 6 and up.

Here's a little about the show.

"A thrilling adventure tale in the epic spirit of The Lord of the Rings, The Neverending Story begins with a lonely boy, Bastian, who sneaks up to his school’s attic to read. There, he discovers the land of Fantastica, whose Childlike Empress is dying. Bastian follows the brave Atreyu as he searches for her cure, losing his horse in the Swamp of Sadness, befriending a flying dragon and outwitting the Werewolf Gmork. But when Atreyu returns to the Empress empty-handed, it is Bastian whose courage must be tested."

To watch video about the show, click here or visit, http://www.imaginationstage.org/home.htm

To read the book and get a copy, visit our Amazon Store by clicking here.

Spa Mommy Treats: Indulge Mobile Spa opens in Annadale

The fabulous ladies, Tammy Carmon and Cameo Person, at Indulge Mobile Spa have landed themselves a home in Annadale. Offering yummy services like a Chocolate-infused Inch Loss Body Wrap, Peppermint-infused Body Wrap, and Kalahari Melon Seed Massage a mom is sure to find a service to tone the body, calm the nerves and delight her senses.

All services are offered on an appointment-only basis at the Sunrise Wellness Center or can be scheduled at the location of your choice.

For more information or to schedule your appointment, call 703-732-2414 or visit, www.indulgemobilespa.net

Mary Kay Apple Berry: Look Good and Do Good

Excerpt from MK website:
"Join Mary Kay in its first global effort to make a difference around the world. When you buy Beauty That Counts™ Mary Kay® Creme Lipstick in Apple Berry, Mary Kay will donate 100 percent of its profits from the sale of this lipstick to change the lives of women and children around the world. As part of this effort, in the United States, Mary Kay Inc. is proud to support Break the Cycle in its efforts to stop domestic violence before it starts"

To shop and to see more of the New Mary Kay, visit www.marykay.com/teia

American Girl Sweepstakes and Turner Classic Movies, Jr.

Ok, I admit it. I used to love watching Sunday night movies with the family. Sometimes it was The Wonderful World of Disney, sometimes it was a classic movie or something fun on tape, but now Turner Classic Movies has something cool happening all summer long -- Sunday Night Classic Movies on TCM Jr. hosted by Chris O'Donnell and Abigail Breslin, especially for the family with classics like Roman Holiday and Yours, Mine and Ours. You are bound to find something to enjoy with some fresh, popped corn -- yum!

For a schedule and showtimes, visit http://www.tcm.com/2008/essentialsjr/schedule/


And for all of you, American Girl fans, be sure to check out the sweepstakes at the link above.

"DaBib" is da bomb! - "A Bib that has got your baby covered"

With an adjustable, scrunchy neck, waterproof backing, crumb catcher pocket and absorbent fabrics in a generous size, I'm calling DaBib one of my favorites.

Capitol Moms recently tested 2 of our new favorite bibs. They survived both a hungry 2 year old with spaghetti sauce wearing a pale pink dress (any one that has ever been there knows the insanity of that) and a juicy, juicy teething infant. Both children's church clothes still looked like church clothes without any tugging and pulling. I rocked and Hubby approved.

I know why Daily Candy and others are shouting the DaBib's praises. To get one of your own, visit www.dabib.com, enter code MOM2008 at checkout for 10% off.

Taming the Chaos with Busy Body Book Organizers

Capitol Moms favorite BusyBodyBook Family Organizers have gotten even better with 2 new products that you are bound to love:

1) The Personal and Family Organizer with a weekly grid format, sturdy plastic overlay, pockets at the front and back covers to store "the stuff" and my favorite, the "to doodles" page to write those, all-too-important "forget me not notes".



2) The undated Fridge Pad - with a magnet at the back and enough space to write the we-need-it list and see everyone's schedule at a glance, makes this a favorite at my house.

To order, visit www.busybodybook.com

One for me, one for you -- See Kai Run and Soles4Souls

Good thing alert:

See Kai Run to match all sales in June for one for one to give a fabulous pair of shoes to those that need it most through a donation to Soles4Souls.

The deal gets even sweeter with free shipping for purchases of $60 and over.

Check it out at www.seekairun.com

4 Sun Safety Tips from the Mommy Docs

The Mommy Docs, local doctors offering pediatric information and reassurance. Here are 4 tips for sun safety.

Learn the lingo and shop for sunscreen: SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. Everyone needs a sunscreen with a SPF level of 15 or higher and âbroad spectrum coverage (both UVA and UVB rays). Look for ingredients such as zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, oxybenzone, avobenzone, sulisobenzone, and mexoryl.

Wear sun protection clothing and gear: Even kids should wear sunglasses that provide 99-100% UVA and UVB protection and a wide brim hat. For sun-protective clothing, look for an Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 30 or greater.

Establish a routine: Make applying sunscreen part of your children's daily routine. Apply it 30 minutes before going out and use enough to cover exposed areas. Don't forget to reapply every two hours or sooner if swimming, sweating, or toweling off.

Pack and use sunscreen: Give sunscreen (with application instructions) to your children's camp counselors, babysitters, daycare providers, etc. to ensure reapplication throughout the day.

Visit Mommy Docs at www.mommydocs.com

DC's Celebrate Mama is June 7th - benefiting My Sister's Place DC

Come Celebrate Mama! in DC on June 7th from 11:00 – 4:00 at Lafayette Elementary School Grounds (5701 Broad Branch Road)

The first ever Celebrate Mama! in DC is a FREE event for moms and the whole family! Bring one, bring all for a day of entertainment, arts and crafts, shopping at the 40+ vendor marketplace and community organizations dedicated to serving mamas of all ages and stages! Get ready for raffle prizes, 250 goodie bag giveaways to the first families on site, sing a longs, story time and mamapreneurs! Have a wonderful day celebrating the mom in your life~

There will be donation bins for My Sister’s Place DC – collecting new toiletries and gently used maternity and children’s clothing.

For more information and a schedule of events please log on to www.celebratemama.com/washingtondc

EVENT: Anansi, The Story King at Georgetown

Anansi The Story King
Written & Directed by Nadine George-Graves
Puppet Work by Nana Projects Inc.

June 12th at 7PM, June 13th at 8PM, June 14th at 2PM and 8PM, June 15th at 2PM

In the Gonda Theatre at Georgetown University

Tickets are $7 for children and students of all ages and regular admission is $15. Groups of 10 or more receive a discount, please email Tricia Fegley at tlf22@georgetown.edu

A mash-up of the traditional African legend with the Arabian classic Shahrazad, this indoor/outdoor spectacle re-imagines the legend of Anansi the spider - the classical African Diaspora trickster - using storytelling, puppetry, new media, music and dance. A performance for the whole family!

Thanks to Alison C. for the tip!

Something to Swaddle Me In: Baby Star and Petunia Pickle Bottom

Here at Capitol Moms, we are big fans of swaddling. Not only does it help baby feel all nice and snuggly, but I seen a good swaddle soothe, calm and help a baby rest better and what mom doesn't love that.

Here are a couple of our favorite swaddling blankets:

Baby Star's Star Swaddler is an environmentally-friendly luxurious, plush blanket that is lightweight, in great colors like lavender, chocolate, yellow and celery green, in fun combinations with an adorable star that will make this a blanket a favorite for years to come.

On sale now, $33 at www.babystar.com

Petunia Pickle Bottom's Swaddling Blankets Gift Set is a must-give, if only for its' long-enough-to-wrap-baby-in size. The soft, stretchy, 100% organic cotton in gentle patterns that are sure to please, make it an everyday go-to favorite. Check out the coordinating organic onesies -- equally fabulous favorites.

Available on-line at www.zarabella.com and www.babysyle.com

Glass Addiction by Mark Jellen: Capturing the Imagination

I love beautiful things. In fact, I'm not sure that I have met a woman that doesn't. And occasionally, a mom wants a treat that isn't kid-proof, but rather lovely, delicate and unique -- Glass Addiction by Mark Jellen bring all of those to mind. Mark is a devoted father and artist in Nebraska. He crafts and hand-blows, one-of-a-kind, couture pieces that you can't find anywhere else. Pictured are some of my favorites.

To order your own custom-crafted piece, click here to visit Mark's site, http://homepage.mac.com/mjellen/Menu7.html.

Carrying stuff: totes to love

Like most moms, I carry a lot of stuff, especially with two it seems like I always putting something in a bag. So, I'm looking for a summer bag to pack everything in and look fabulous while I do it. Here's a few that caught my eye.


Free People's Maui Tote, on sale now for $69.95

A great find from Sekund Magazine, Smarty Pants Shop's custom-made Leather Classic Woven Tote, in 12 great colors like camel, pistachio green and bronze.

Why I Wear Mary Kay...and Girl's Guide to Gorgeous

Ok, girls, I want to share a beauty secret of mine, Mary Kay Cosmetics. I won't tell you that I've never worn another product or even that I don't enjoy other products, because that I would be a big fat lie, but I will share why I wear Mary Kay and chose to add "Independent Mary Kay Consultant" to my other titles. Let me preface this with, this is not your mother's Mary Kay.

For years, I have been on a quest to find the perfect shade, the beautiful chocolate brown that is my skin is difficult to match. I have tried Clinique, Mac, Cover Girl, Revlon, Lancome, Arbonne and Fashion Fair -- some worked better than others, but none made me say, "Wow." Years ago, I had worn Mary Kay, but a couple of months ago, I saw one of those fabulous pink Cadillacs near Ballston, I chased her down and I thought I would give it a try again.

I found a great friend, fabulous shades, that required no blending to match and that flawless finish that I adore (and my husband noticed). I found a system that allowed me to pamper myself and look fabulous with minimal effort and expense. It's all about feeling beautiful and Mary Kay helps me do that.

I love to share a good thing and here's your chance, visit www.marykay.com/teia to see the new Mary Kay that brought me back and to shop online. There are games and quizzes, tips and trends. To receive, "The Girl's Guide to Gorgeous", send an email to teia@marykay.com

Have fun,
Teia

Mother's Day Mini Spa hosted by the SingleMamaPrenuers

Thanks Maxine of www.tranquilblessings.com for the tip.

Who are the event coordinators: SingleMamaPreneurs
"Living out or dreams as successful entrepreneurs of the Single Mama persuasion!!"
(www.singlemamapreneurs.com)

Where: Rose's Dream 1370 H. St. N.E. Washington, D.C.

When: May 10, 2008 Saturday before Mother's Day
Time: 4pm - 8pm

This is an Appointment-based Event only, Entry will only be obtained with a Pre-Paid Package. There are packages available for little Princesses as well as well as Mom and Dad.

For more information, please visit www.singlemamapreneurs.com or call us at 240-286-5542.

Join local mamas at today's Celebrate Mama - Bethesda event

Celebrate Mama, a local event for "moms of all ages and stages" is being held today in Bethesda from 11am -4pm, free of charge at Downtown Bethesda Row. It's going to be fun time and great way to meet local mamas and shop -- just in time for Mother's Day.

For more information, visit http://www.celebratemama.com/loc_main.asp?L_ID=1015

Happy Mother's Day from Fluerville!

Fluerville is offering a fabulous gift to moms - 35% off everything on their site until May 11th -- use code 4MOMS35 --- happy shopping!

Visit www.fluerville.com

Appoint yourself the "Good Fairy" and pass it on!

Do something good today.

This morning, I was the recipient of a RAOK (Random Act of Kindness). I was having a rough morning, things just were not flowing as they should have, my plan for the day started off badly and I was in a funk. The RAOK was simple, but it made my day. I didn't know this person or them me, but I know that she made my day and I want someone else to feel that moment of bliss and good will.

With so much negativity around and being publicized -- make it a point to "Play Nice" and make someone's day.

Pass it on!
Teia

Local DC Area Weekend Happenings...

This weekend, Capitol Moms will hopping around the area. Some fun events will be:

* A Day for Every Busy Woman, a day of pampering and education, at The Waterford at Fair Oaks

* Rock'n'Tot, local kid's dance party, at DC's Ultra-Bar

* Thomas Jefferson's Library has been recreated and is on view at the Library of Congress

* Alexandria's Earth Day at Ben Breman Park from 10-2pm

Good tastes at Urban Tastes

As a mama with a healthy appetite, I want to share Urban Tastes by local chef Megan Adams.

Each week, Megan crafts a rotating menu with healthy, locally grown and organic ingredients. We tried the Fish Stew and it was full of spicy, yummy-goodness, but my absolute favorite was the Mesquite Chocolate Chip cookies.

Look for a unique variety of tasty options at reasonable prices to be helpfully, and thankfully for the busy momma, delivered, twice-a-week to your door.

To order, visit www.urbantastes.com

Help us write our book...

Capitol Moms founder, Teia Collier, and Julie Belgard of Integrative Therapy of Greater Washington are teaming up to edit a book of bump to baby stories. We need the whole range of stories from the warm, funny to the touching and dramatic to create a balanced book. Here's our letter to moms.

Dear Moms,

Every mom has a baby story--from finding out they are pregnant to the actual birth and beyond. These are wonderful, bonding stories, both funny and dramatic, and we realized that there are very few formats in which to share them.

We are working on editing a book of bump to baby stories--particularly how you found out you were pregnant, how you told your partner/family/friends/boss.... and then what came next, and are collecting the stories of mothers around the country to be featured.

We would love to share your story along with our own. Please feel free to email your story at: bumpstories@gmail.com

We look forward to hearing from you!

Sincerely,

Julie and Teia

Sample Sale Alert: Petunia Pickle Bottom -- April 22-28

Who doesn't love a great bag, and I have to admit PPB makes some fabulous ones. The Semi-Annual Sample Sale is a great way to grab one at a great price. Pre-register and note that styles run out quickly, so stop in early.

To register, visit http://www.petuniaoutlet.com/register/

Coming April 28th - Capitol Moms Members Connect

Shhh...we've been keeping a project under wraps, but I wanted share our upcoming baby.

Capitol Moms Members Connect.

We are creating an exclusive community where mothers can share, network and celebrate their motherhood journey while getting tips on the latest and greatest, partake in special members-only events and have access to Capitol Moms personalized services at a discounted, members-only rate.

More details coming soon....

EVENT: A Day for Every Busy Woman, April 26th, The Waterford at Fair Oaks

Fun Event Alert!!!

The creators of the quarterly Every Busy Woman Guide are having their fifth annual "A Day for Every Busy Woman". There will be shopping, massages, education -- 2 separate tracks one for personal and one for business development. It's gonna be fun and I can't wait.

Here's a blurb from their site:
You need a day just for you!
If you’re a busy woman who could use a day for yourself and your gal pals, please join us April 26, 2008 for everything you love – all in one place! The 5th Annual A Day for Every Busy Woman conference is the one day a year you’ve looked forward to – all your favorites plus more shopping, seminars to help you focus on business and personal areas of your busy life, and pampering!

To register for the event, visit www.adayforeverybusywoman.com

Also, as a special treat, women in the military, along with soldiers wives and mothers receive a special discount pay only $5 for the whole event.

Five minutes with Debbie Jacobson, Baltimore Mama and Producer of What's Next?

Capitol Moms founder, Teia Collier, spent a few minutes chatting with the inspiring and highly-motivated, mama of 4(soon to be 5) Debbie Jacobson, producer of Retirement Living's new lifestyle reality show, What's Next?. With our parents getting older and heading toward this new stage in life and already rolling around in it, I found this interview particularly interesting.

Here are a few highlights:

Tell me about What's Next?
It is inspired and started with my dad. He thought he had it all figured out, a plan laid out and then he abruptly got there. And it was all different. It was like someone changed the rules and he was left answering the question, "How do you spend then rest of your life?" What's Next? is a reality show where we walk with a retiree and help them answer that question for themselves. We cover topics like how navigate the complicated Social Security system to learning how to downsize. Every episode leaves the participant (and viewers) knowing a little more and armed with some tools to make their lives easier.

That's incredible, so you're a producer and a mama of four, soon to be five. How do you balance?
Honestly, sometimes the balance is blind. But it does help that most of kids are in school and you do your best. With a 12, 10, 5, 2 and a new one on the way, I depend on my husband as well. He's awesome and my compliment - he does the things that I don't love like dishes and cooking. But I really love working and want to make it work -- I think that having the desire there is really important.

What's your favorite tips for mamas and moms to be?
Be flexible and have patience. Every day will be different, and that's fine. Also read the cues from your own baby -- know that everyone will have advice and not every chart will apply directly to your baby.


What's Next? airs on Retirement Living on Friday's at 2pm, locally on Comcast Channel 8. They also have a supplement website at www.rl.tv with clips and other resources.

Sasha B Designs: Little Nursing Luxuries

Recently Capitol Moms stumbled upon a really special company out of Portland, Sasha B Designs. Makers of sweet nursing covers and dreamy soft blankets, Sasha B Designs has found a home here at Capitol Moms.

We tried out the Sage Curly Nursing Cover and the Mint Chocolate Chip Baby Blanket. First thing out of the box, we fell in love with the beautiful presentation, then when we opened the bag out fell two beautiful products. The snap style, curly nursing cover was swiped by my two year old with an "oooh Mommmy" to be claimed as a snuggly. I knew it was a winner when a second reviewer friend commented on its silky, creamy texture as well.

In a variety of colors and in your choice of minky or cotton, you are sure to find a practically, luxurious, hand-crafted favorite at Sasha B Designs.

Also, special for members into the upcoming Capitol Moms Members Connect, launching April 28th, we will be giving away a sweet Sasha B Designs mint chocolate chip blanket -- to enter now and get your first 90 days membership free (a $22.50 value) sign up for the CM newsletter to the right.

This Momma Likes to Eat -- Delia's Online

Anyone who knows me, knows my love of food, cookbooks and tasty treats.  I bake, broil, try to grill -- though my husband is much better -- and have an affinity for food network and old Southern desserts.  They just make me happy, and I have recently been re-aquainted with an old friend.  The British favorite, Delia Smith.

At Delia's online home you will find, fast dinners, classic treats, elaborate showpieces made simple with helpful tips that have made me look like a rockstar hostess with minimal effort...and who doesn't love that.

Be sure to check out the recipe of the day, the Cheats tips and the How To Cook series (there is a mean buttermilk scone recipe that has bribed many a child.)

To see, what I mean visit, www.deliaonline.com

Capitol Hill gets a toy store -- Groovyland Toys and Treats

Here's news from their release:

Groovy dc cards & gifts are happy to announce the Opening of GROOVYLAND toys & treats located at 425 8th St. SE on Barracks Row. Please join us for the Opening of Groovyland on Saturday April 12th, located directly across the street from Groovy dc. Groovyland will offer a fun new shopping experience with toys & treats for all ages. Stop in for fun and excitement all day long and Mollie The Clown will be at Groovyland from 1-4 pm to entertain the kids. Groovyland will be participating in Second Saturday so we will be open late with treats for all ages.


Look here for a fun giveaway for Groovyland in the near future.

Lilaguides free at www.Lilaguide.com for a limited time

For a limited time, the makers of the new parent survival and review guide Lilaguide, are giving away free copies for new members to their online site.

For more information, view the full post at Capitol Moms Maternity Edition and to sign-up and receive your copy at www.lilaguide.com

Chatting with Petunia Pickle Bottom Founder DaNai Jones

Capitol Moms founder Teia Collier spent a few minutes chatting with fun, laid-back, new momma and founder of the wildly popular diaper bag and accessory company Petunia Pickle Bottom DeNai Jones.

Here are some of the highlights:

Why Petunia Pickle Bottom? With the encouragement and support of my husband, I sought to fulfill a dream and a void in the market for a diaper bag that was functional, stylish and designed for the mama to serve the needs of the baby, rather than the other way around. There wasn't anything like what we created and after some convincing the stores picked us up -- from there it all began.

How do you balance running a successful company and motherhood? We have a lot of help; our family is here. They help with the boys (she has a brand-new little one) and get to build special memories with their grandparents. Balance is always something that you work at, but it helps that we put our family first.

What's next for Petunia Pickle Bottom? We always have something new on the horizon to keep things interesting and to give our fans something new and exciting. (There are also a new line of slings in coordinating fabrics launching in stores this month.)

What are you carrying now? The Crosstown Clutch. (a CM fave)

What are some of your favorite products that you use with your little ones? I love our swaddling blankets (especially now with a newborn)

To view the new slings and take a look at the stylish Crosstown Clutches that make traveling with a baby a snap, visit www.petuniapicklebottom.com

Loving Summer and Spring at Peanut Shell Slings

Every Spring, the colors come out and I can't seem to fathom using the old ordinary baby carriers in bland, neutral shades of beige, navy and black... and that's why we love Peanut Shell Slings for pouch baby carriers.

Granted there are lovely neutral shades, but I choose Peanut Shell for the fun, designer patterns in great bold shades, the padding that is not bulky, but ups the comfort level and the sweet pocket that lets a busy mom drop in a cell phone and a card and travel hands free.

We tested the pink couture (pictured above) and the retro blue that reverses to a seriously yummy chocolate -- on trend and versatile. Both earned rave reviews from our reviewers (and random bystanders)-- most loved the colors, the comfort and the fact that the babies we tried, seemed all snug and cozy.

To see Peanut Shell's line of pouches, wraps and nursing covers, visit, www.goo-ga.com.

To schedule your personalized consultation and to select products to fit all of your baby needs, visit www.CAPITOLMOMS.org/motherhood.html

Smelling the "Lavender Vanilla and Comfort"

The other day while at Target, I discovered something new, Febreze in nifty decor-ready bottles that are gorgeous enough to leave out, rather than hastily hide under the kitchen cabinet.

It comes in 3 soothing scents, but our personal favorite is Lavender and Vanilla Comfort -- think subtle, clean and soft. We love it at our house. It does all the great things of Febreze, without the industrial bottle.

To get special offers from Febreze, visit www.febreze.com

Baby Star sale ending today

A Capitol Moms favorite, BabyStar makes several lines of seriously luscious textured blankies, burp cloths and bibs. Featured in People, InTouch and Pregnancy, the lines are loved by celeb and local mamas alike.

And I know, it's last minute notice, but at 50%-80% off, you can't miss their customer appreciation sale. It's a great time to try out the products, if you haven't yet.

Shop at http://www.babystar.com/customer-appreciation-sale.php

DC Metro Mommy: Warehouse of Mommyista Goodness

Mommyista: (paraphrased -CM style) a rockin' mommy that loves fashion, life, and takes her role as a mommy seriously. She can be found in search of great gear, happening events to share with her little ones and a fun place to hold a mom's night out.

The other day while on Facebook, I stumbled across a post for DC Metro Mommy. I followed the links and was in for a treat. Local mama Claudine Kurp has crafted a fabulous site, full of tips and resources, helpfully organized. I found myself happily wandering from category to category, picking up tips and fun places to visit along the way.

To check out, DC Metro Mommy, visit www.dcmetromommy.com

5 Minutes with Playhouse Disney's Imagination Movers and CD Giveaway

On a bright, crisp Easter Monday morning, Capitol Moms spent a few minutes chatting with the funny and quite cool guys, Scott, Dave, Smitty and former Silver Spring local, Rich from the Imagination Movers, the world's first alternative rock band for pre-schoolers, currently playing on Playhouse Disney.

How'd y'all get started? Well, we've been together in one way or another for the last decade. A couple of us went to high school together, our wives are friends, between the 4 of us there are 8 kids, though most of them belong to Rich. We came up with the idea after Captain Kangeroo and the like left this world -- we realized that all the programming for kids were cartoons. We wanted to do something fun, that got kids up and moving we started there.

Has it been a smooth road thus far? It's been a long road. After we came up with the idea and some of the music, we played local sites and pitched the idea for a short show to Louisiana Public Broadcasting -- they loved it but couldn't sponsor to a new show and the people from Disney came out to come have a listen. It was a good match, but then Hurricane Katrina hit and our lives turned upside down. Three of us were standing in line for food stamps and trying to re-create our lives. It was nuts, but Disney came back around and the Writer's Strike hit and now we are wrapping up shooting new shows for the fall.

Oh cool a new show for the Fall, what else is coming up for the Imagination Movers? We've got a new CD - Juice Box Heroes (we've been listening to it for a few days now and it has all your favorites from Playhouse Disney including my Z's favorite Farm)

How do y'all balance band life and fatherhood? We are Daddies and Husbands first then a band -- but after being around these guys for so long -- they are family too. You learn alot about each other, but it works. Dave notes that it helps to make sure to spend time with your kids, either playing outside, singing together,

I love it and to wrap things up, what are some of the products that y'all love to use with your kids? Rich, a proud papa of 4 with one more on the way, loves his Baby Bjorn and swears by the Pack'N'Play. Dave has older kids, right now, they make their Wii, a family sport - racing to the finish line, and Scott says Boudreaux's Butt Paste (we swear by this one in our house too!)is the best.

To enter our GIVEAWAY for a copy of the Juice Box Heroes, simply sign-up for our newsletter and it automatically enters you for the April 4th giveaway. If you can't wait, it is available at www.imaginationmovers.com or in our Amazon store.

To hear samples and watch videos of the their family favorites, click here

Our Kids: "Your Link to Family Fun"

DC Mamas:
I wanted to share some information about a great resource to have on your "favorites" - Our Kids DC.

Here's a little information from founder Amy Miller:

"Our-Kids was founded in 1999 as a resource to help Washington DC parents and caregivers find activities and resources quickly and easily. We strive to be your one stop source for family-friendly information - We do the research – so you don’t have to!

Our Kids prides itself on being Your Link to Family Fun.TM We highlight activities that are fun for children and places that are "parent friendly". We focus on family-tested places, events and activities that can help you plan your day, regardless of what interests your kids might have or what ages they are. You'll find everything organized by category with all the info you need right at your fingertips. Find local support groups, local children's theatre and much more.

Our Kids also has a comprehensive member only area. As an Our Kids member you have access to:

· All events where you can search and narrow your search by event type, cost, and age group.
· A members area providing access to promotions, events, saved events and more.
· A weekly newsletter that displays a list of calendar of events, local theater listings and more.
· Bookmark capabilities so you can save events that interest you for later.
· Promotions, discounts, and giveaways.

Many people find that advanced screening tickets and other giveaways more than cover the modest annual membership of $26.00 per year - just 50 cents a week.

See what other Our Kids Readers have to say!


Special Discount for CM Readers: Receive $2 off of the annual membership rate with the code "CMM"

Lust List: ToyWatch's Rose Gold Collection

Every girl has a lust list, a list of beautiful wants, pleasures you might say, that bring a smile to her lips with the just a mere thought. I usually keep my list private, with occasional hints dropped to my hubby, but this time, I thought I would share.

Right now on my list is ToyWatch's Rose Gold Collection, particular the Rose Gold White, though the Rose Gold Brown and the Mother of Pearl Chrono Pink would make lovely additions to my wrist wardrobe as well. I love the Rose Gold bezel, the crisp, clean look of the watch, not too fussy in a cool brown and black color scheme.

It's temporarily out of stock, so for now, this one must stay on the lust list. Ummm, yummy. To see my other faves from ToyWatch, visit ToyWatch.

Capturing a memory with Jessica Photo

Everyone wants to capture those special moments in life, the birth of a new addition, those "happy birthday to me"s and the milestone markers of your family through the years. To help capture your moments, I want to share a great resource with local moms, Jessica Photo, portraits and photos by DC area favorite, Jessica Christian.

Her work is beautiful, realistic, professional and memorable. Jessica also offers a unique service for her clients, Display Consultation, to help with the "What to do with these photos now?" -- she contracts the services of an interior designer to offer personal style assistance to help her clients get the most out of their portraits and their own personal space. It is a service that her clients appreciate and rave about.


A couple samples are pictured above, but for a more extensive preview, visit her site, www.jessicaphoto.com

Calling all Playhouse Disney Fans: Imagination Movers at the White House Easter Roll on Monday and Healthy Eating Help with BunnyTown

Playhouse Disney's hit alternative band for pre-schoolers, The Imagination Movers will be performing at the White House Easter Egg Roll this Monday (3/24) at 8:25 am and 11:30 am on the Easter Bonnet stage on the South Lawn. Imagination Movers have also released a new CD, Juice Box Heroes (too cute!), available at Disney Music.


Need a little help, encouraging a picky eater -- try a little help from Bunnytown's Healthy Food Pageant airing on Monday, 3/24, to see a clip, click here. Bunnytown is hopping into their new daily 10am timeslot. My Z loves rockin' out to the bunnies and learns little lessons about play, gets up and moving and drags Mommy and Daddy along.

Five Minutes with Rock'N'Tot co-founder Liz Weirshousky

Capitol Moms sat down with Bethesda mom and Rock'N'Tot co-founder Liz Weirshousky to get the scoop on the latest hit tot dance party to come to Washington, DC and to chat about how she balances work, motherhood and some of her momma faves.

So give us the scoop on Rock'N'Tot, what was your inspiration? Well there are lots of family dance parties around the country, but looked into them and decided that we wanted to do something a little different and do it our way. We made some awesome connections. We wanted to highlight the hard working, motivated parent-owned companies and give them a place to shine. With RNT, we can do just that.

What is your absolute favorite thing about RNT? Watching my daughter dance and the giveaways - (At this weekend's event, there will be over 50)

How do you balance work and motherhood? I make sure that I have special time with my daughter. I do the nightly bath, we use it as a time, to sing and laugh, dance and bond in a great way. I bring my daughter along as often as possible -- she even helped with the club scouting with us.

What are your three favorite products: Dwink boxes - drink box holders that prevent the "squeeze", Chapstick -- it entertains her time and time again, my NapPak - a great pillow rollpack.

Your top tip for New Mommas: "Follow your gut." You know your baby, listen to advice, but trust your own instincts.


The next event is on Saturday, March 22 at Ultra Bar, 911 F Street, NW and tickets for all walkers are $15.

Great looks for dressing with ease, found with Tory Burch

Yesterday, Capitol Moms went scouting out for some great luxe products for Mommy and Baby. While out, I caught the Tory Burch Spring and Resort Collection fashion show and found a several pieces that I can't wait to share.

Since I have recently had a beautiful little boy, yes, I am a little biased, I've got my anteanae out for styles that have an ease about them, not too body conscious, but with great color and a little glamour to help a new momma get her groove back.

One of my favorites of her line are the tunics, particularly the Tory Tunic. It comes in a variety of colors, my favorites are the nautically inspired navy linen trimmed in a crisp white and the punchy pink print on cotton voile that just screams, "Welcome to the I'land, Mon". Pair it with a great pair of jeans or a pair of flowy linen pants and metalic sandals and you're good to go.

And I also love this dress. It comes in an easy silk jersey that pack well, shows a little of that fabulous new momma cleavage, and has great detailing that will draw all attention away form any remnants of a baby bump. Tory Burch Resort 2008 Martin Halter


Locally available at Neiman Marcus or at www.toryburch.com

Pictures courtesy of Tory Burch.com

See Kai Run: Entertaining Footwear Fashion

Today, we received a great pair of shoes by See Kai Run. And I don't say "great" lightly. I have a picky, two year old that has developed her own ideas on what fashionable means. She is also a very tall girl with size 8 1/2 feet. I have bought several pairs of shoes which have sat in the shoe basket, unworn and in practically pristine condition due to the battle it takes to get them on her feet.

I thought I would let her open the box and see how things went from there. A cute celery green box with a red wagon lid appeared. When Z muttered an immediate "Mine!", I knew things were going well. When she saw the buttery soft, poppy orange leather sandals, she kicked off her fuzzy slippers and held out a foot for me to put the shoe on.

Absolutely, adorable right down to the fabulous fun, loving crossword etched-soles. She's got traction - perfect for dancing around the room, the soft soles aren't heavy and she's got plenty of wiggle room -- no swished up toes and three hours later she's still got them on.

See Kai Run's shoes are loved by local mamas and celebs alike. Shop locally at The Purple Goose or to see more styles and shop online and enjoy free shipping at www.SeeKaiRun.com

Love DC Baby?

If you are one of the many area moms that loves DC Baby, one of the great resource guides for the area, but find that your edition is a little out of date. Sarah has put the second edition up for e-book on her site.

It is a great deal, available for download at www.dc-baby.com for $11. The paperback edition will be out in the Fall.

Giveaway for Newsletter Subscribers: A Signed Copy of CityBabyDC

One lucky Capitol Moms Reader will receive a signed copy of the latest resource for DC Moms: City Baby D.C.: The Ultimate Guide for DC Metro Parents from Pregnancy to Preschool by Holly Morse Caldwell.

I spent Saturday afternoon scouring the pages, reading about places I've been and places I plan to go. Holly has written a well organized, easy read that is a must for any DC area mom (she covers the Northern VA and Metro Maryland areas very well too.) It will definetly stay on my keeper shelf, if not in the diaper bag.

To enter for the free, SIGNED copy, just sign up for our Capitol Moms Quick Bites Newsletter in the box just above the "LINKS" to the right. The drawing will be held on March 29th, 2008.

But if you can't wait, you can order from AMAZON at www.amazon.com

Featured in the Washington Post story about busy parent solutions

Thank you to the Washington Post and writer Annys Shinn for featuring Capitol Moms founder Teia Collier in today's article A Coach at the Crib and A Consultant at the Potty as a part of the series Parenting Inc.

The article discusses services for busy and otherwise harried parents like sleep and lactation consultants, a potty trainer and Teia Collier as the personal shopper.

She is quoted as saying "Everything requires research, you try lots of products and find you've wasted your money. I do the research, and I find it."

To view the Washington Post article, visit www.washingtonpost.com

To learn more about the service mentioned in the article and others from the Motherhood Resource Service, visit www.capitolmoms.org/motherhood.html

PBS Kids' SuperWhy and the Super Readers

Ok, my Z loves books, Dora, her toy Rabbit and SuperWhy! My husband loves books and so do I, I guess that is why we have books in various baskets, bookshelves, under desks and in stacks around the house.

I also grew up on the original educational kids station, PBS; in the classic tradition of Seasame Street comes the new kid on the block, SuperWhy. SuperWhy! is an adorable 30 minute cartoon that encourages kids to solve problems by "finding their super story answer", spell, read, all while learning to be a good friend. There are four friends that travel in and out of books in Storybook Village learning lessons and how to spell along the way.

My daughter loves getting to go on a Reading Adventure and ends up singing her ABC's. I have to admit that I like it too and find myself singing along.

To learn more or watch an episode, visit http://pbskids.org/superwhy/

To Stay In the Loop and Connected... sign-up for our Newsletter

Don't forget to sign up for The Capitol Moms Quick Bites Newsletter.

Quick tidbits, highlights from the blog, coupon codes, happening events and fun extras to help you enjoy the journey through motherhood and celebrate the perks a bit more.

The sign-up box is just above the "Links" to the right.

Sol Loves - Lillebaby's Eurotote - Bringing Home Preemie Extra

Bringing Home Preemie is our 5 part suppplement of products and services that I have come to love and use regularly with my own now just over 8lb. "preemie".



My little one loves to be wrapped up tight, swaddled and all cozy warm. I, personally, love products that multi-task to fulfill several duties beautifully. Lillebaby's Eurotote does just that.

It is a light-weight, multi-weather cradle carrier, rather similar to a moses basket-minus the basket, a bunting bag, travel mat and fits right into our car seat and stroller without disturbing Sollie. He loves it; you simply place your baby in the center, snuggle them all tight and then carry the bag with two easily adjustable straps.

It is a nice alternative to our sling; it's washable and it's just as easy for my tall 6'5'' hubby as it is for me to use. The Eurotote also comes in a variety of colors for fashionable mixing and matching.

To purchase online, visit Scandinavian Child's website, http://www.scichild.com/where_to_buy.cfm

Capitol Moms Visits: The Purple Goose - Great Local Find

Last week, in conjunction with the Washington Post series, ParentingInc, Capitol Moms visited Del Ray's The Purple Goose for the first time to shop for couple of our Motherhood Resource Service Clients.

It was a fabulous visit. We were looking for a special present for one of our clients and found the most adorable finds from adorable tutus to a wide selection of See Kai Run shoes, Robeez, pretty girl dresses, "Bring Me Home" outfits for boys and girls and unique accessories.

The Mom and Daughter Duo that own the store make shopping so much fun and have offerings in a variety of prices; I'm pretty sure that you find something for any little girl.

Visit them online at http://www.thepurplegoose.com or in Del Ray at 2005 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22301

To learn more about becoming a Motherhood Resource Service client, visit http://www.capitolmoms.org/Motherhood.html