Parents Choosing More Unusual Baby Names Now

Jeanna Bryner
LiveScience Managing Editor

"The researchers suspect the uptick of unusual baby names could be a sign of a change in culture from one that applauded fitting in to today's emphasis on being unique and standing out. When taken too far, however, this individualism could also lead to narcissism, according to study researcher Jean Twenge, of San Diego State University."

"I think it is an indication of our culture becoming more narcissistic," Twenge said.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/livescience/20100224/sc_livescience/parentschoosingmoreunusualbabynamesnow

LA Kids Consignment SALE!!!!

This is one of the BEST and BIGGEST Consignment Sales in LA. !!!! Don't miss it! They only accept things that are "Like New or New." For a few hundred dollars you can walk away with an entire years supply for the baby or child. With this economy, this is a great way to go. You will also be supporting a Mommy Entrepreneur who started it!

http://lakidsconsignment.com/

NEXT SALE: SPRING 2010
March 19 - 9am-5pm
March 20 - 9am-5pm
March 21 - 9am-2pm 50% off many items!

Location (same as Fall 09)
7733 Hayvenhurst Ave.
Van Nuys, CA 91406

Preschool PANIC!!!

IS PRESCHOOL IN LOS ANGELES HARDER TO GET INTO THEN COLLEGE?????

Take it from me, if you just had a baby and live in the (WEST) Los Angeles area....PUT HIM/HER on some lists NOW!!! DO NOT WAIT! The last thing most think of when they first have a child is ...what PRESCHOOL they will be going to. It seems so far in the future. IT'S NOT!! (My son was on a couple lists since he was 3 mths old and did not get in.)

• Go to a website like SAVVYSOURCE.com to check out preschools in your area
• Join a Moms Club so you ask the moms that already have kids in preschool what they think
• Go to CityMommy.com and post questions or research preschools there
• If the school is "Religious" find out about joining the whatever it is, church, temple etc...Most want you to be a "registered" member for AT LEAST a year. (Many of the schools that are at a "Religious Facility" actually have NO RELIGIOUS AFFILIATION but they accept "MEMBERS and SIBLINGS" first.
• If your child has a JANUARY FEBRUARY birthday they may miss the CUTOFF to start in the fall in there 2's. Check with the specific school.
• CHECK about having to be POTTY TRAINED???? Some schools make you take a break if your child is not totally potty trained and then you get asked to leave,....no refund.
• Most of the time, preschools will offer your child an afternoon spot which is usually somewhere between 12-4ish because the morning spots are all taken.....if your child is napping then you might have a problem. (Mine naps, at age 3, for 2-3 hours between 12:30-3.) I feel he would be a wreck if he had to give this up but...he's also VERY active in the morning and all children are differnet. I cherish his sleep for health reasons as well as my SANITY!!! :)

(I will post my reasearch in the next few days :)

Ellie Krieger - Mixed Berry Cobbler (Healthy Style)

This cobbler is really tasty and satisfies my sweet tooth without so much sugar. The berries are also really good for you as well. My husband had this with a scoop of Vanilla Bean Ice Cream
which made it all that better for him. :)

Recipe courtesy of http://FoodNetwork.com
http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/healthy-appetite-with-ellie-krieger-/mixed-berry-cobbler-recipe/index.html

Ingredients
For the Filling:

Cooking spray
2 (12-ounce) bags frozen mixed berries, thawed (about 6 cups) (I buy these at Trader Joe's $2.99/each. Put them in a strainer overnight so the extra juice leaks out. This helps a lot when cooking with FROZEN berries to avoid the MUSHINESS factor.)
1/4 cup whole-wheat flour (I used WW Pastry Flour)
1/4 cup sugar (I used more Stevia here as well and less sugar)
1 orange, zest finely grated (about 2 teaspoons)
For the topping:
1/4 cup whole-wheat flour
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons plus 1 teaspoon sugar, divided (I used a packet of Stevia with 1T Raw Sugar)
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons chilled unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
1/3 cup lowfat buttermilk
2 tablespoons canola oil

Directions
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Coat an 8 by 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray.

In a large bowl, toss the berries with whole wheat flour, sugar and zest. Transfer the berry mixture to the baking dish and set aside.

In a medium bowl whisk together the whole-wheat flour, all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Cut in the butter using 2 knives or a pastry cutter until many small pebble-sized pieces are formed.

In a small bowl or pitcher, whisk together the buttermilk and oil. Add the buttermilk-oil mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until just moistened. Do not over mix. Drop the batter onto the fruit forming 6 mounds. Sprinkle with the remaining teaspoon of sugar. Bake for 30 minutes, until fruit is bubbly and top is golden. Let stand for at least 10 minutes before serving.

Yield 6 servings, serving size 3/4 cup

The Canadian Tenors on Oprah!!

The Canadian Tenors are singing at the opening ceremony for the Olympics. They are sooo good!!! This is on Oprah when Celine Dion, one of their most favorite performers, surprises them on stage.
I try to expose my 3 yr old son to many types of music and instruments. He was absolutely glued to the tv when these guys came on. He started rocking back and forth and naming the instruments...sooo cute!! (I also told him that he too could be on an "Oprah like" show someday.... skies the limit for him and his dreams. :)

Got a COLD?? Try Homeopathic Cold Care

I walked into VP Health a couple months ago with the onset of a sore throat and cold/flu symptoms. The sales lady recommended Umcka and told me many of the staff use it and it seems to really work. Hmmm...I'm thinking, if the people that work there use it and get great results,... it must work!! (There's always a slight doubt when I buy homeopathic products as to their effectiveness.)

Bottom line, THIS REALLY WORKED FOR ME!!!

Right when I feel a sore throat coming, I start taking it. (I also gargle with warm salt water and use my Netti pot.)

Here's to fighting a cold with no drugs.

**You can buy this at VP Health, Whole Foods, and VITACOST.com

The BEST HOLIDAY BISCOTTI Ever!!

I make this EVERY YEAR and my husband and son LOVE IT!!!!! as well as myself. :)...I even purchased a serrated knife this year hoping it will cut a little less crumbly. You have to try this. It is not too sweet (if you don't dip it in the chocolate) so you don't feel that guilty eating it (as a meal like I do sometimes :) and goes great with tea, coffee, milk or just ...by itself.
~Note: Just break off small pieces when you are eating it. This way you don't feel like you are eating a lot at one time... psychologically. :)

Giada De Laurentiis ~ Holiday Biscotti
(Recipe from FoodNetwork.com)

Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature
1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
3/4 cup pistachios, coarsely chopped (Trader Joes)
2/3 cup dried cranberries (Trader Joes (I also use Orange Cranberries as well)
12 ounces good-quality white chocolate, chopped (Trader Joes or Whole Foods, both contain no GMO's)
Red and green sugar crystals, for garnish (I don't do this step but it's probably cute.)
Directions
________________________
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Line a heavy large baking sheet with parchment paper. Whisk the flour and baking powder in a medium bowl to blend. Using an electric mixer, beat the sugar, butter, lemon zest, and salt in a large bowl to blend. Beat in the eggs 1 at a time. Add the flour mixture and beat just until blended. Stir in the pistachios and cranberries.

Form the dough into a 13-inch long, 3-inch wide log on the prepared baking sheet. Bake until light golden, about 40 minutes. Cool for 30 minutes.

Place the log on the cutting board. Using a sharp serrated knife, cut the log on a diagonal into 1/2 to 3/4-inch-thick slices. Arrange the biscotti, cut side down, on the baking sheet. Bake the biscotti until they are pale golden, about 15 minutes. Transfer the biscotti to a rack and cool completely.

Stir the chocolate in a bowl set over a saucepan of simmering water until the chocolate melts. Dip half of the biscotti into the melted chocolate. Gently shake off the excess chocolate. Place the biscotti on the baking sheet for the chocolate to set. Sprinkle with the sugar crystals. Refrigerate until the chocolate is firm, about 35 minutes.

The biscotti can be made ahead. Store them in an airtight container up to 4 days, or wrap them in foil and freeze in resealable plastic bags up to 3 weeks.

Home Depot Christmas TREEs!!! BEST DEAL IN TOWN!!

HOMEDEPOT.com


This is one of LA's Best Kept Secrets especially when you are used to paying $80-$150 for a Christmas Tree in West LA.
You can get a great tree at Home Depot for nearly half the price you would pay anywhere on Wilshire Blvd.
*Try to go on a weekday because the line gets LOOOONG!! on the weekends..
*Try to go a few weeks in advance to avoid the line.
(photo courtesy of homedepot.com)

Kale-Pomegranate Quinoa Stuffing - Dr. Oz's Thanksgiving SUPERFOOD LIST

This is NOT just for Thanksgiving. This is going into my monthly rotation for sure! This recipe is SO HEALTHY AND the pomegranates are a BURST OF FLAVOR in your mouth!!

I will post a picture next time I make this. I have to say this is so DELICIOUS!!! and filling and I ate the entire thing myself over a 4 day span. The only down side of this recipe is the next day, after being in the refrigerator, it doesn't look as pretty but the taste is even better.

**I made a few additions such as: 1/4c Roasted Corn & a little Goat Cheese sprinkled over and melted in & 1 Leek cut up (light green to white part)

Article & Recipe from Natural Health Magazine -

Pomegranate
**(Bought this at Trader Joe's: currently they have them already seeded and still in shell)

WHY IT'S A SUPERFOOD A favorite of Dr. Oz's, pomegranate may be one of the gut-friendliest foods around. Its anti-inflammatory compounds help protect the colon from damage caused by diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's.

Leek
**(Bought this at Trader Joe's already trimmed and Whole Foods has HUGE ones)

WHY IT'S A SUPERFOOD A single leek provides over half the recommended daily value of vitamin K, "a nutrient so vital to bone health that people deficient in vitamin K2 [which the body makes from K] get osteoporosis," Dr. Oz says.

Quinoa
**(Bought this at Trader Joe's - Organic)

WHY IT'S A SUPERFOOD Quinoa is a triplethreat: "gluten-free, a complete protein, and a prebiotic [meaning it stimulates the growth of probiotics or good bacteria already found in the gut]," Dr. Oz says.

Kale

**(Bought this at WHOLE FOODS)

WHY IT'S A SUPERFOOD Consuming the leafy green increases HDL ("good") cholesterol and decreases LDL ("bad") cholesterol. "It's also a very good source of calcium, which your heart needs in order to beat properly," Dr. Oz says.

Kale-Pomegranate Quinoa Stuffing

Serves 12

5 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil,
divided
6 cloves garlic, finely sliced, divided
1/2 cup vegetable stock
1/2 pounds young kale, stems and leaves
coarsely chopped
Salt to taste
White pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups pecans
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
1 tablespoon fresh thyme (strip the
leaves from the stems)
2 cups cooked quinoa
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1 egg, lightly beaten
3/4 cup dry white wine
1/2 cup fresh pomegranate seeds

1. Preheat oven to 325[degrees]F. Lightly oil a 9 x
13-inch glass baking dish.

2. In a large saucepan over medium-high
heat, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add
half of the garlic and cook until soft but
not yet golden. Raise heat to high, add
the stock and kale and toss to combine.
Cover and cook for 3 minutes. Uncover
and continue cooking, stirring until all the
liquid has evaporated. Season with salt
and white pepper. Set aside to cool.

3. Add cooled, cooked kale and pecans to
a food processor; pulse several times until
pecans are chopped and kale is shredded
but mixture is still chunky.

4. In a separate saucepan over medium-high
heat, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil;
add the onion and remaining garlic; saute
2 to 3 minutes. Add the sage and continue
cooking until onion is caramelized,
approximately 3 to 4 more minutes. Stir
in the pecan-kale mixture.

5. Transfer the onion-pecan-kale mixture
to a large mixing bowl. Add the cooked
quinoa and stir to combine. Stir in the
remaining tablespoon of oil and melted
butter. Season with salt and white pepper.
Add the egg and wine and toss to
coat. Transfer the mixture to the prepared
baking dish. Cover and bake 30 minutes.
Garnish with pomegranate seeds before
serving.

Per serving: 220 calories, 18 g fat (2.5 g
saturated), 13 g carbohydrates, 4 g protein,
3 g fiber, 214 mg sodium (9% Daily Value).

Dr. Oz : Morning Sickness, cord blood banking & pre-planned c-sections

Today on Dr. Oz - Morning Sickness, cord blood banking & pre-planned c-sections:

http://www.doctoroz.com/pregnancy-videos/morning-sickness-cord-blood-banking-pre-planned-c-sections

Dr. Oz's morning sickness remedies:
Eat whole grain crackers when you wake up
Eat cold foods that have less aroma and are often more bland
Drink ginger root tea

Also: You can save your CORD BLOOD (cost me $350 just to have the DR. extract it)and send it to a BANK that will use it for someone else that needs it.

3 Ingredient Creamy Avocado Salad Dressing

My Dad did this on a salad a few months ago and I did it tonight. YUMMY!! and HEALTHY!! and AMAZING how it can take the place of dressing??

Dad's Version: 4 Ingredient Creamy Avocado Salad Dressing

• Mashed up avocado (Amount depending on how much salad you have to cover)
• 1 T Mayonnaise (to taste)
• Salt & Pepper
• The KEY is to mash it all together and stir to a smooth consistency then, take your hands and use it to COAT the entire salad

My Version: 3 Ingredient Creamy Avocado Salad Dressing

• Mashed up avocado (Amount depending on how much salad you have to cover)
• 1 T Vegannaise (to taste)
• Pinch of Himalayan Salt
  The KEY is to mash it all together and stir to a smooth consistency then, take your hands and use it to COAT the entire salad

The World's Healthiest Foods Website

WHFoods.org

I just ran across this website and it has some over 100 really great healthy recipe ideas. It is also PACKED with interesting health information.
I'm going to make this recipe from WHFoods.org tomorrow morning. I have left over Kale and Leeks from another recipe I just made. :) I will let you know how it turns out.


Poached Eggs Over Sauteed Greens
For only 130 calories, this great way of serving eggs in the morning provides an excellent, very good or good source of over 15 nutrients including 719% of the daily value (DV) for vitamin K, 147% DV for vitamin C and 126% DV for vitamin A. Enjoy!

Prep and Cook Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients:

4 eggs, preferably organic
1 tsp light vinegar (rice, apple cider, or white wine)
about 4 cups water
1 cup thinly sliced leeks, about 1 large leek, white part only
6 medium cloves garlic, sliced
4 cups chopped kale
3 +1 TBS chicken broth
2 TBS fresh lemon juice
salt and black pepper to taste

Directions:
Slice leeks and garlic and let sit for at least 5 minutes to bring out their health-promoting properties.
Bring water and vinegar to a fast simmer in a skillet large enough to fit eggs. Make sure there is enough water to cover eggs.
While water is coming to a simmer, heat 1 TBS broth in a separate stainless steel 10-12 inch skillet. Healthy Saute sliced leeks in broth over medium heat for about 3 minutes. Add garlic slices and continue to saute, stirring constantly for another minute.
Add kale, broth, and lemon juice, and simmer covered on medium low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
When done season with salt and pepper.
Poach eggs until desired doneness. This will take about 5 minutes, or just until the white is set and the yolk has filmed over. Remove from vinegar water with a slotted spoon and place on top of greens. Serves 4
Healthy Cooking Tips:

Make sure you do not add any salt to the poaching water for the eggs. The salt has a tendency to dissolve the egg whites. By making sure there is enough water in the poaching pan to cover eggs, you avoid the eggs sticking to the bottom of the pan. You want the eggs to float while they cook. This also avoids breaking the eggs when you remove them with the slotted spoon. You may want to lay the spoon with the egg on a towel briefly after removing egg from water. This allows the towel to absorb some of the poaching water, and it won't dilute the flavor of your greens.

AMAZING COOKING Website

You have to check this website out if you love to cook and love to see how it's all done. The Pioneer Woman has taken food to another level by photographing it so beautifully and showing how it is prepared step by step.
She also blogs about the love story between her and her husband. She's a city girl that ends up marrying a cowboy. WHAT A LOVE STORY!!!

ThePioneerWoman.com

Costco Discounts

Someone told me this weekend that anything ending in 97 at COSTCO means this is the FINAL MARKDOWN PRICE. So..$21.97??? hmmm?...is this true?

Flax Oil that tastes like a Stawberry Banana Sauce?

My friend M recommended this to me while we were perusing Rainbow Acres Grocery store. It's approx $22 but lasts quite a while. You can put it on yogurt and make a parfait. You can put it over ice cream, waffles, cereal... It is DELICIOUS!! You would never know it is good for you. What will they come out with next??, ..I have no idea. It doesn't get any better than this. :)

You can buy these at Whole Foods and VP Health as well.

This is a MUST TRY!

SoBe Lifewater - Naturally Sweetened Water

I have been trying to do low sugar and no carbonation in my diet. I was referred to Sobe Lifewater by Jorge Cruise author of "Belly Fat Cure," and found out it is soooo TASTY and totally natural. I bought a few of the flavors to taste and made the mistake that some have 20g of sugar per bottle and some have 2 grams of sugar per bottle. I was out to try the one with 2g of sugar. Make sure there is a big "O cal" at the top when you buy.

Fuji Apple Pear is very refreshing and so delicious. You can buy these at Gelsons or Target.

This is what Pepsiproductfacts.com has to say about it:
SoBe Life Water is a unique enhanced water beverage that gives you a high level of vitamins and antioxidants and is infused with natural herbs. Plus it's low in calories, using only natural sweeteners including sugar and erythritol. With its unique flavor combinations, Life Water is naturally refreshing and thrilling! It's thrillicious!

*Picture courtesy of sobeworld.com*

America's Test Kitchen - TV on Demand!

This site is only $20 for the entire year and has the BEST recipes and VIDEOS. I totally recommend it. They "Test" all the recipes HUNDREDS of times until they come out PERFECT. What more could you ask for? You can even do a trial for 10 days and not pay but get ideas for the holidays. (I'm sure they would love to hear me saying this. :)

http://www.americastestkitchentv.com/

The BEST BEST BEST Banana Cream Pie!!

If you are looking to make something for the holidays, THIS IS IT!!! Banana Cream Pie lovers will LOVE YOU!!! My husband and my Dad are BCP LOVERS. This is a tried and true recipe. You have to try it. (I will post a pic after I make it this year.)

Note: You can substitute the Graham Crackers with the dark chocolate wafer cookies (I buy these at Gelsons) for a different crust.

Banana Cream Pie with Caramel Drizzles and Chocolate Sauce

Recipe courtesy Emeril Lagasse

FoodNetwork.com

Ingredients:
4 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1 1/2 cups plus 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
1 vanilla bean, split in half lengthwise and seeds scraped
3 large egg yolks
2 large eggs
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 recipe Graham Cracker Crust, recipe follows
3 pounds (about 9) firm but ripe bananas, peeled and cut crosswise into 1/2-inch-thick slices
1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Caramel Sauce, recipe follows
Chocolate Sauce, recipe follows
Shaved chocolate, for garnish
Confectioner's sugar, for garnish
Directions
Combine 2 cups of the cream, the milk, 1/2 cup of the sugar, the vanilla bean, and the vanilla seeds in a large heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle boil, whisking to dissolve the sugar. Remove from the heat.

Combine the egg yolks, eggs, cornstarch, and 1 cup of the sugar in a medium bowl, and whisk pale yellow in color. Set aside.

Whisk 1 cup of the hot cream mixture into the egg yolks. Gradually add the egg mixture to the hot cream, whisking constantly. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly with a large wooden spoon to cook out the cornstarch and the mixture thickens, about 5 minutes. (The mixture may separate slightly. If so, remove from the heat and beat with an electric mixer until thick and smooth.) Strain through a fine mesh strainer into a clean bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing down against the surface to prevent a skin from forming. Chill in the refrigerator for about 4 hours.

To assemble, spread 1/2 cup of the custard over the bottom of the prepared crust, smoothing with the back of a large spoon or rubber spatula. Arrange enough banana slices (not quite one-third) in a tight, tiled pattern over the custard, pressing down with your hands to pack them firmly. Repeat to build a second layer, using 3/4 cup of the custard and enough bananas to cover, smoothing down the layer evenly. For the third layer, spread 3/4 cup of custard over the bananas and top with the remaining bananas, starting 1-inch from the outer edge and working toward the center. Spread 1 cup of custard evenly over the bananas to prevent discoloration. Cover with plastic wrap and chill for at least 4 hours or overnight.

In a medium bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form. Add the remaining 2 teaspoons of sugar and the vanilla extract and whip until stiff peaks form.

Remove the pie from the refrigerator. With a sharp knife dipped in hot water, cut the pie into 10 equal slices. Transfer the slices to dessert plates. Fill a pastry bag with the whipped cream and pipe onto each slice. (Alternately, spread the whipped cream evenly over the pie before cutting.)

Drizzle each slice with the caramel sauce and chocolate sauce, sprinkle with the chocolate shavings and confectioners' sugar, and serve.


Graham Cracker Crust:

1 1/4 cups graham cracker crumbs

1/4 cup sugar

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.

Combine the graham cracker crumbs and sugar in a medium bowl and mix well. Add the butter and mix well. Press the mixture into a 9-inch pie pan. Top with aluminum pie tin and with a circular motion, press the crust tightly into the pan. Bake until browned, about 25 minutes. Cool for 10 to 15 minutes.

Yield: 1 (9-inch) crust


Caramel Sauce:

3/4 cup sugar

2 tablespoons water

1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1/2 cup heavy cream

2 tablespoons to 1/4 cup whole milk


Combine the sugar, water, and lemon juice in a medium, heavy saucepan over medium-high heat. Cook, stirring, until the sugar dissolves. Let boil without stirring until the mixture becomes a deep amber color, 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely so it doesn't burn. Add the cream, whisk to combine, and remove from the heat. Add the milk, 2 tablespoons at a time, until the desired consistency is reached. Remove from the heat and cool to room temperature before serving with the pie. (The sauce will thicken as it cools.)

Yield: generous 3/4 cup


Chocolate Sauce:

3/4 cup half-and-half

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1/2 pound semisweet chocolate chips

1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract


Scald the half-and-half and butter in a small, heavy saucepan over medium heat. Remove from the heat.

Place the chocolate and vanilla in a medium, heat-proof bowl. Add the hot half-and-half and let sit for 2 minutes, then whisk until smooth. Serve slightly warm. (The sauce can be kept refrigerated in an airtight container for several days, but it must be returned to room temperature before serving.

Yield: generous 3/4 cup

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/emeril-lagasse/banana-cream-pie-with-caramel-drizzles-and-chocolate-sauce-recipe2/index.html

Holiday Gift Ideas for Ages 1-2 & 3 Years Old

0-1 Years Old: Someone told me a few years ago, take some of Baby P's favorite toys and stuffed animals and wrap them up right before Christmas. Save your money!! He will get more joy out of opening something he already likes vs something he has never seen. We did most of his unwrapping for him that year and his attention was more on the wrapping paper and bows than the gift itself.

1-2 Years Old: More of the same thing. Wrap up his toys and stuff he loves. If he's more towards 2 years old, wrap up a bunch of stuff because "Tearing off the wrapping paper," becomes REALLY FUN!!

Now we are heading towards 3 years old and Christmas is going to be so EXCITING!!! I can't wait to see the look on his face that morning when he sees his new train table with a big red bow on it. He's starting to realize what "Surprises" and "Presents" are.
**This is the BEST part. (He's 2.10 years old) I took him shopping with me and actually let him test the toys I was buying him for Christmas, then I bought them, right in front of him. He still has no idea this is what Santa is bringing him. He hasn't even asked me where they went. Out of sight out of mind. :) YAY!! This will definitely NOT be the case next year.

3+ Years Old - They know what they want and will definitely let you know. :)

Toddler Gift Ideas - Train Table

I know a few friends getting their sons TRAIN Tables this year and I am one of them. I think the investment is worth all the free time it will allow me. :) I will post a pic when we put it together. I know there's a Thomas the Train and Pottery Barn one. There's usually some on Craigslist.com as well.

Toddler Gift Idea - Easel from Ikea

This is a GREAT gift and is only $14.99 at Ikea. My son already has this and LOVES it. One side is a chalkboard and the other is a dry erase or you can buy paper for it at Ikea as well. (appr $5)

This is a MUST for hours of fun and great gift for under the tree with a BOW or Hanakah gift. Your kid will love it!! All my friends have it. :)

**You can buy paints and brushes at Lakeshore or Michaels.

Toddler Gift Idea - Ice Cream Parlor Set by Melissa and Doug

Another great gift idea. My son can play with this at Lakeshore for hours. The scoop has a magnet to pick up all the flavors and place them on the cone. So many things they can learn with this. LOVE IT!!!

This retails for $29.99.

*If you have reviews for any of these toys, please comment below. :)

http://www.melissaanddoug.com/dyn_prod.php?p=2609

(Photo courtesy of melissaanddoug.com)

Toddler GIft Idea - Pizza Party by Melissa and Doug

I had to share this with other parents before the holidays. This Pizza Party, I have heard from SEVERAL people, is such a great gift. The kids seem to LOVE IT and play with it for more than 10 minutes. Of course you can get it at Lakeshore for full retail price or the book stores. I just found one at Ross for $15. I AM SO HAPPY!!!

(photo courtesy of melissaanddoug.com)

http://www.melissaanddoug.com/dyn_prod.php?p=167

Thanksgiving Sides: Roasted Carrots and Parsnips with Thyme

Roasted Carrots and Parsnips with Thyme
Recipe courtesy Danny Boome

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/danny-boome/roasted-carrots-and-parsnips-with-thyme-recipe/index.html

(Photo courtesy of FoodNetwork.com)

*This looks really healthy. I am going to get this into the weekly rotation because my whole family LOVES carrots.

Ingredients

1 pound carrots
1 pound parsnips (*Sometimes TJ's has these or Gelsons)
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons honey (*I might use Agave?)
Coarse salt and freshly ground black pepper
6 sprigs fresh thyme
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
Peel the carrots and parsnips and cut them in half lengthwise, larger ones can be quartered. Place them on a large rimmed baking sheet.
Drizzle the carrots and parsnips with the olive oil and honey. Season with salt and pepper and toss to coat. Scatter the thyme sprigs on top. Place them in the preheated oven.
After 10 minutes, give the veggies a toss and put back in the oven for another 10 minutes until the vegetables are soft and slightly caramelized. Serve warm.

Thanksgiving Sides: Spicy Parmesan Green Beans and Kale

Spicy Parmesan Green Beans and Kale
Recipe courtesy

Giada De Laurentiis

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/giada-de-laurentiis/spicy-parmesan-green-beans-and-kale-recipe/index.html

(Photo courtesy of FoodNetwork.com)

*This got 5 out of 5 stars. I am going to try it this year probably without the spice so Baby P can eat it. I am trying to incorporate more of a "VARIETY of VEGETABLES" at our table.

Prep Time: 10 min Inactive Prep Time: -- Cook Time: 15 min Level:
Easy Serves:
6 to 8 servings

Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, sliced
1/4 pound cremini mushrooms, trimmed and quartered (about 14 mushrooms)
1 1/2 pounds green beans, trimmed and slice into 1-inch pieces
2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup white wine
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 bunch kale (1/2 pound), rinsed, stemmed, and roughly chopped
2 tablespoons lemon juice (about 1/2 a lemon)
3 tablespoons finely grated Parmesan
Directions
Warm the olive oil in a large, heavy saute pan over medium-high heat. Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the mushrooms, green beans, salt, and pepper and cook for 2 minutes. Add the wine and continue cooking until the green beans are almost tender, about 5 minutes. Add the red pepper flakes and the kale and continue cooking until the kale has wilted, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add the lemon juice and the Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat and serve immediately.

Thanksgiving Sides: Maple- and Tangerine-Glazed Carrots

Maple- and Tangerine-Glazed Carrots

Bon Appétit November 2002

**This side dish is soooo tasty and so memorable when made. You have to try it sometime this year. ** When I make it again I will post a picture. (You could probably even use Agave Nectar but I don't know how it would turn out?)

Tangerine juice adds an intriguing note to the velvety sauce. Look for the largest possible tangerines to make squeezing easier.

Yield: Makes 8 servings


1 1/4 cups fresh tangerine juice
3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons (1/4 stick) butter
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon grated tangerine peel

2 1/2 pounds large carrots (about 12), peeled, cut on diagonal into 1/2-inch-thick ovals (about 6 cups)
Pinch of cayenne pepper

1/2 large tangerine, seeded
Chopped fresh parsley


Combine first 5 ingredients in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Boil until sauce thickens and coats spoon thickly and is reduced to 2/3 cup, whisking occasionally, about 8 minutes.

Steam carrots until just crisp-tender, about 7 minutes. Mix carrots and cayenne pepper into sauce. (Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.)

Simmer carrots in sauce over medium heat until heated through and sauce reduces to thick glaze, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to bowl. Squeeze juice from tangerine half over. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.

House/Pet Sitting Services - LAMommy Referral Spotlight

PetSittingByAshley.com
If you're like me, your pets have become family members. When you can't be home with them, whether because of work, vacation or other obligations, you want them taken care of with the same love and attention you give them. That's exactly what I do!!

I offer a multitude of services for a variety of pets. I can also handle various home services which, by making it appear that your house is occupied, can be a crime deterrent. Depending on the client's request, I do stay overnight as well. I am based in Calabasas, but I service many different cities.

Choose the schedule and services you want, and I
do the rest!!

Pet services include:

Feeding
Walking
Administration of medicine
Litterbox scooping & cleaning
Transportation to vet, groomer, or dog park (if asked)
Overnight & extended stays (if asked)
Spending time with your animal & giving affection
Updates via text messages and pictures

Home services include:

Watering plants
Bringing in newspapers/mail
Turning on/alternating lights
Carrying trash in/out
Cleaning all towels & bedding after use
Cleaning house before I leave

Excellent list of references available upon request!!

Contact Information:
Ashley Alderman
Phone #: (818) 635-8485
Email Address: aalderman@petsittingbyashley.com
*Photo courtesy of petsittingbyashley.com

How many PARABENS do you put on your BODY everyday?

Start of each day -

1. Shampoo



2. Conditioner



3. Body Wash



4. Face Wash



5. Shaving Cream



6. Body Lotion



7. Facial Moisturizer



8. Deodorant



9. Hail Gel or other products

*My son also only uses paraben free products

When I thought about it like this, I realized I was layering my skin with PARBENS almost EVERYDAY so some must be getting absorbed? Whether there is or is not a correlation with PARABENS and CANCER (check out my article some posts below), I was ready to change my habits and products to stay on the safe side.

So, with the help of Bed, Bath, and Beyond coupons and their organic section, I slowly converted all my products.

Cosmetics, Parabens, and Breast Cancer

By~ Organic Consumers Association

http://www.organicconsumers.org/bodycare/breastcancer090604.cfm

BREAKING NEWS - TAX CREDIT
EXPANDED AND EXTENDED!


Today it is a great day for our housing market! Just moments ago, President Obama signed into law the Unemployment Compensation Extension Act (H.R. 3548) that included, as an amendment, the extension and expansion of the Homebuyer Tax Credit.

In addition to extending the first time homebuyers credit of up to $8,000, the new bill calls for an incentive for existing homeowners as well. Homeowners who have owned their current homes at least five years, are now eligible for tax credits of up to $6,500 when they purchase a new home. To qualify, buyers in both groups have to sign a purchase agreement by April 30, 2010 and close by June 30.

The credit is available for the purchase of principal homes costing $800,000 or less, meaning vacation homes are ineligible. The credit would be phased out for individuals with annual incomes above $125,000 and for joint filers with incomes above $225,000.

Under additional provisions in the bill, taxpayers can claim the credit on purchases completed in 2010 on their 2009 income tax returns. The bill maintains the provision that home buyers do not have to repay the credit provided the home remains their primary residence for 36 months after purchase, and waives this requirement for active duty military personnel who move due to a military order.

This truly is exciting news for our industry and a major victory for consumers and REALTORS alike. NAR economists estimate that the current tax credit has contributed approximately $22 billion to the general economy, and approximately 2 million people will take advantage of the tax credit this year.

Now now more than ever we need to take advantage of this opportunity. This is said to be the last tax credit that the government will offer so first time home buyers and move-up buyers should do their best to take complete advantage of it.

~Article courtesy of:

Betty Graham

President and COO Coldwell Banker Greater LA

What To Do With Pumpkins???

The subject of, "What to do with PUMPKINS??" came up in one of the groups I am in and coincidentally, two recipes that seem REALLY HEALTHY and DELICIOUS just came through my email.

This one I got from: hungryvegan.blogspot.com:

PUMPKIN SMOOTHIE

Ingredients:

2 cups So Delicious Coconut Milk Beverage (I used Original, but you could use Vanilla, too)
2 tablespoons agave nectar (or sweetener of choice, to taste)
1 cup canned pumpkin
1 ripe banana
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice -or- 1/4 tsp ginger and 1/4 tsp ginger
1/2 tsp vanilla extract (use 1/4 tsp, if you are using vanilla coconut milk beverage)

Directions:

Blend all together, pour, and enjoy! Makes 2 12-oz servings plus a little extra to enjoy.

_________________
And.. this one I just got from: SimplyRecipes.com

Suzanne's Old Fashioned Pumpkin Pie

Ingredients
2 cups of pumpkin pulp purée from a sugar pumpkin* or from canned pumpkin purée
1 1/2 cup heavy cream or 1 12 oz. can of evaporated milk
1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar
1/3 cup white sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs plus the yolk of a third egg
2 teaspoons of cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon ground cardamon
1/2 teaspoon of lemon zest
1 good crust (see pâte brisée recipe)
* To make pumpkin purée from a sugar pumpkin: start with a small-medium sugar pumpkin, cut out the stem and scrape out the insides, discard (save the seeds, of course). Cut into sections and steam in a saucepan with a couple inches of water at the bottom, until soft. Scoop out the pulp from the skin. Or you can bake whole or halved in a 350°F oven until fork tender. Optional - put pulp through a food mill or chinois to make extra smooth.
Method
1 Preheat oven to 425°F.
2 Mix sugars, salt, and spices, and lemon zest in a large bowl. Beat the eggs and add to the bowl. Stir in the pumpkin purée. Stir in cream. Whisk all together until well incorporated.
3 Pour into pie shell and bake at 425°F for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes reduce the temperature to 350°F. Bake 40-50 minutes, or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean.
4 Cool on a wire rack for 2 hours.
Serve with whipped cream. Serves 8.