tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-81008865346134805982024-03-04T21:12:57.642-08:00Bay Area Baby BlogCatherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.comBlogger123125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-30290926106575214322011-02-16T13:03:00.001-08:002011-02-16T13:45:42.357-08:00Mad Science Search<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSk47pjarIXnmJv5Z4nWkBEg-n3inibnbRR95NW-KHa1pKElUrnj_npYQXuDKx17NqilZF-gT8tZVWjO8EuDtC9vl-QppNyeI4s_a68AaQ1-819saZku2mnnjK11YetXBot-8Cn8RyrTR/s1600/bdscience.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 398px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBSk47pjarIXnmJv5Z4nWkBEg-n3inibnbRR95NW-KHa1pKElUrnj_npYQXuDKx17NqilZF-gT8tZVWjO8EuDtC9vl-QppNyeI4s_a68AaQ1-819saZku2mnnjK11YetXBot-8Cn8RyrTR/s400/bdscience.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5574396889041523666" /></a><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" white-space: pre-wrap; font-family:'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif;font-size:13px;">Things I've learned while hunting down mad science birthday accouterments: meth lab kits are readily available to anyone with a Paypal account, EBAY SELLERS LIKE TO RANT IN ALL CAPS (with a name like crazydave, I should have known better), and 20mm petri dishes come in orders of 1 and 1,000 only.</span>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-40662774514379278032011-01-15T17:13:00.000-08:002011-01-16T16:56:34.641-08:00Happy New Year!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OltbmvgEg8qJbfhzd05oYrZJTGegFcUd9KpqxuIwwrTU0LOiVEJqvAbZeiogdZCccmciiJyNe8WgRddtdE_UbDLEFw_7WzmKhYw0uoCpkHVpdJG53jnzSILezR_CLEb9B1cs0kZJnNUt/s1600/MathPort-2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OltbmvgEg8qJbfhzd05oYrZJTGegFcUd9KpqxuIwwrTU0LOiVEJqvAbZeiogdZCccmciiJyNe8WgRddtdE_UbDLEFw_7WzmKhYw0uoCpkHVpdJG53jnzSILezR_CLEb9B1cs0kZJnNUt/s400/MathPort-2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562593678246362178" /></a><br />Sorry! It's been a while since I've blogged, but my New Year's Resolution is to get back to it. <div><br /></div><div>Last year was rather exciting for us, but full of lots of changes, too.</div><div><br /></div><div>Last spring we moved to Menlo Park and spent most of the year settling into a new neighborhood and home.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>I've come to realize some interesting things about myself:</b></div><div>I'm pretty indecisive when it comes to picking out furniture.</div><div>I have a bunch of half finished projects laying around my life like Christmas tree needles in February (coincidently, I've yet to take down the holiday decorations and it's the middle of January).</div><div>I've become more dumber since hiring a nanny/personal assistant (she's more patient and better organized than I am, and I'm okay with it).</div><div>I'm am totally enjoying every minute of this thing I call my life (so long as coffee is within arms reach).</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Other crazy happenings in 2010:</b></div><div>The Hubs: started commuting to work by train, signed up for an Electric car that has yet to be constructed (it ain't looking good), and has turned into a bigger foodie than I. </div><div><br /></div><div>Thing 1: was love-sick over a girl, discovered to be dyslexic, changed schools, discovered the game Yhatzee, and STILL wants to be a spy when he grows up.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:arial, sans-serif;font-size:180%;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style=" white-space: pre;font-size:18px;"><br /></span></span></div><div>Thing 2: was diagnosed with sleep apnea, had his tonsils out, started pre-school, and asked for a dog (the answer was decidedly no).</div><div><br /></div><div>I took a bunch of photos, planned a bunch of trips, and ran around like a chicken with my head cut off trying to keep up with it all.</div><div><br /></div><div>2011 is looking up, and we're excited to see what the year may bring.</div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-68188133483222167112010-05-09T22:36:00.001-07:002010-05-09T22:57:53.913-07:00Tick...tick...tick...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/peterpan.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 449px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/peterpan.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Want to go on an adventure? J.M. Barrie's beloved childhood story, <a href="http://www.peterpantheshow.com/">Peter Pan</a>, comes to San Francisco for it's U.S premier 360 production. Housed in a state of the art CGI theater, Peter Pan is performed in a round tent that is surrounded with high resolution video to fully immerse the audience in a multi-media experience that won't be soon forgotten! Actors and professionals integrate stage performance, music, computers, and video to create a sensory adventure for all ages.<br /><br />We're heading to SF for our viewing this Wednesday (Math can't wait!)...I'll be sure to provide a more detailed review after!<br /><br />Peter Pan will be performing Tue & Thur at 7PM, Fri & Sat at 7:30 PM, Wed & Sat at 2PM and Sundays at 1PM and 5PM. It's located at The threesixty Theatre at Ferry Park.<br /><br />Tickets can be purchased <a href="http://www.peterpantheshow.com/">here</a> or you can call 415.551.2056Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-62853358931574633702010-03-16T13:12:00.000-07:002010-03-16T13:16:54.589-07:00Have You Read "Three Cups of Tea"?<div style="text-align: justify;">Last year the the bookgroup I'm part of read the book "Three Cups of Tea" by Greg Mortenson, and then we had a tea party to celebrate this wonderful inspirational story. Unfortunately, at the time, we were unable to procure any rancid yak butter, but a member made some fantastic traditional Chai in it's stead...omg, yum!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.6seconds.org/synapse/">Synapse Institute</a>, the progressive lab school my son attends, has been inspired by the book, too! The students have decided to put on a garage sale to raise money for Pennies for Peace, an organization put together by the author. The proceeds will be sent to help students in Afghanistan and Pakistan.<br /><br />This is a fun and interactive way to show your kids the spirit of citizenship in action, and heck, you might pick up a used Burberry bag for a steal ;0)<br /><br />Located at 305 N. California Ave in Palo Alto from 8:30am-2pm this Saturday, March 20th.<br /><br />Any donations to put up for sale are welcome, and can be dropped off at the above location anytime before Friday afternoon.<br /><br />For the Facebook info page go <a href="http://tiny.cc/UnWNI">here</a> .<br />For more info go <a href="http://tiny.cc/keZJK">here</a> .<br />For more info about the organization Pennies for Peace go <a href="http://www.penniesforpeace.org/">here</a> .<br /></div><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/penniesforpeace.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 828px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/penniesforpeace.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-50673606644324415972010-03-03T14:43:00.001-08:002010-03-03T14:55:47.095-08:00Exploratorium!We did our first trip to the <a href="http://www.exploratorium.edu/">Exploratorium</a> last month for a field trip with Math's <a href="http://www.6seconds.org/synapse/">school</a>. Woah! So cool...especially the grounds surrounding the building. All the moms were all saying how we'd love to have gotten married right under one of those amazing arches...<br /><br />First off, place was fantastic for kids of all ages (though toddlers might be a little tough, there was a space for them to play, too). We had kids ages 5-12 and all of them had a blast! There was tons of things to touch and explore and experiment. The kids got to watch a cow eye dissection (their faces were pretty priceless), and they enjoyed roaming around with free-reign of the entire space. We went during a week-day and there were plenty of schools there for field trips. The food from the cafeteria was pretty decent, and they had a nice selection of healthy options. I noticed that as we were leaving (around 2pm), the whole place was near empty...so if you are visiting during during the week that would be an ideal time to start!<br /><br />To quote The Terminator, "We'll be back..."<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/exploratorium.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 711px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/exploratorium.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/exploratorium2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 356px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/exploratorium2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-82593789913337315242010-02-28T20:39:00.000-08:002010-02-28T20:55:10.365-08:00Baby Shower Blvd!<div style="text-align: justify;">I have a wonderful friend in my neighborhood who makes the most fantastic shower gifts! She also happens to be a very accomplished cook and baker. She recently started her own business called <a href="http://www.babyshowerblvd.com/">Baby Shower Blvd</a> that specializes in beautiful custom diaper cakes and party favors. Wouldn't these be a perfect centerpiece to any beloved new mom's celebration or child's birthday party?<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/babyblvd.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 466px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/babyblvd.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/babyblvd2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 293px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/babyblvd2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Photos by Sharma Podila<br /></div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-36649419903611901992010-02-21T14:51:00.000-08:002010-02-21T16:25:32.255-08:00Why You Need a Network of Moms...<div style="text-align: justify;">I have this group of friends who I've made over the years. We met when my oldest started Kindergarten and our children have grown up together through the years. Most of us had moved to California away from home and family. Our children now go to different schools, but we still maintain a friendship and connection. Together we created our own family of moms...we've grown together as parents and friends. We meet for coffee, we meet to discuss books, we meet at the park, we meet to discuss marriage. We've supported each other through hard times, and shared each other's triumphs and joys. We've cried together, and laughed together, and commiserated the pains of childhood and parenthood.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">And yesterday, while I was hopped up on pain meds, and covered in ice packs I totally appreciated yet again how wonderful my network of moms is. They took the son, gave me time to sleep and recover, called to see how I was feeling...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thanks ladies, love and appreciate you more than you can ever know :0)</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/moms.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 640px; height: 435px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/moms.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/moms3.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 640px; height: 480px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/moms3.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/moms2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 640px; height: 402px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/moms2.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-8792447786584114592010-02-20T21:02:00.000-08:002010-02-20T21:48:41.235-08:00Monterey Bay Aquarium<div style="text-align: justify;">Alexi and his best friend went to the <a href="http://www.montereybayaquarium.org">Monterey Bay Aquarium</a> this week. The kids had a blast exploring and seeing all the fish and aquatic animals. The splash zone was a huge hit with the under 3 crowd. There were tons of things to touch and feel. Alexi liked dressing up as a fish, and in the end, ran himself to exhaustion. He fell asleep on the way out...perfect trip!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/monteray.jpg" border="0" alt="" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 634px; height: 475px; " /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/monteray3.jpg" border="0" alt="" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 853px; " /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/monteray2.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 640px; height: 427px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/monteray2.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/monteray4.jpg" border="0" alt="" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 711px; " /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/monteary5.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 640px; height: 427px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/monteary5.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/mmonteary6.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 640px; height: 498px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/mmonteary6.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><img src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/monteray7.jpg" border="0" alt="" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 635px; height: 474px; " /></span></div></div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-59199099572028496792010-01-18T12:12:00.001-08:002010-01-18T12:41:18.995-08:00Happy New Year!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/wallmap.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 426px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/wallmap.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Oh, I've been very bad about blogging lately. Now that we're back to normal(ish) life I'm putting forth more of an effort to keep up with the blogging!<br /><br />This year is going to be quite an interesting experience for all of us. The Hubs is working harder than ever before. Alexi has started Spanish Immersion preschool, and will likely move into a full time pre-school program in the fall. Math is turning into a full blown big kid right in front of our eyes, and I've decided to go pro on the photographing front. Should be a wild ride :0)<br /></div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-47397504391651242062009-12-04T09:50:00.000-08:002009-12-04T09:56:12.485-08:00LEGO-cy Exhibit<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/baylug.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 569px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/baylug.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Ever year, the <a href="http://www.baylug.org/">Bay Area Lego Users Group</a> puts together an exhibit at the <a href="http://www.moah.org/">Museum of American Heritage</a> in Palo Alto. Any budding builder is bound to LOVE this moving, brick creation! A whole scene is created out of legos by members from age pre-school all the way up to grandparents!<br /><br />Admission is $2. The event opens December 11th (Friday, Sat, Sun) and runs through Jan 17th of next year.Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-48697882522297354052009-11-17T18:10:00.000-08:002009-11-17T21:23:22.540-08:00Beautifull Event<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.beautifull.com/sites/all/themes/beautifull/img/our_food/menu_breakfast1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 595px; height: 153px;" src="http://www.beautifull.com/sites/all/themes/beautifull/img/our_food/menu_breakfast1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Photo from Beautifull website<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Today, November 18th, <a href="http://www.beautifull.com/">Beautifull</a> is hosting a "Nutrition for Pregnancy" series going in the Laurel Village from 7:00-8pm. Director of Nutrion, Lisa Sawrey-Kubicek, MS, RD, is going to speak about maintaining a healthy body during pregnancy! There's contest prizes, appetizers, and other goodies that will be available to all you expecting mommies out there in the Bay Area. Might be a good way to meet other prospective play date buddies, too!<br /><br />Located at 3401 California Street, San Francisco, CA 94118. You can RSVP by calling (415) 738-9080.<br /><br />P.S. - They have frozen yogurt! That would have sealed the deal for me...<br /></div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-35802493301763985382009-11-10T22:12:00.001-08:002009-11-10T22:31:57.401-08:00Do you have a color-coded life?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/week1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 640px; height: 520px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/week1.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div>Yes, I'm nuts. I know this, but not for the reason you'd think...</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is the ONLY way to organize all the things in my life. I used to write everything down on little scraps of paper and leave them all over the house. I still do this to some extent (much to my husband's chagrin), but I've massively consolidated over the years. From tutoring sessions to dentist appointments I needed a way to organize it all, and a way to have it with me at all times. Thankfully <a href="http://support.apple.com/kb/HT2513?viewlocale=en_US">iCal</a> syncs up with my phone and back again to my computer so I always have an updated copy of what is going on and when and where I'm supposed to be. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Still, I realize I look like a complete OCD nut when you see the picture. Seriously, if you saw my desk you'd know this is not the case ;0)<br /><br /></div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-54014357549809838452009-11-06T22:43:00.001-08:002009-11-07T22:21:01.794-08:00For the Eloise in All of Us...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/hightea.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 632px; height: 351px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/hightea.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color:#0000EE;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></span></div>I'm in Pittsburgh, PA right now visiting my family, and met a friend for High Tea at the Omni William Penn hotel. Coincidentally, this is also the place where I had my wedding reception, but hadn't been back in 6 years! We had so much fun. You can read about it <a href="http://catherineboley.blogspot.com/2009/11/high-tea-at-omni.html">here</a>.<div><br /></div><div>Anyway, it got me thinking that High Tea would be a super fun thing to do with any little kid who's into Eloise. And you know, you don't have to go to the Plaza to partake! Spurred on by my love of fine dining, or drinking as it were, I decided to investigate some kid-friendly places to do High Tea in the Bay Area. </div><div><br /></div><div>Here's the list!</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.blogger.com/www.lovejoystearoom.com">Lovejoy's Tea Room</a> (San Francisco) - One of the best and most well known spots for High Tea.</div><div><a href="http://www.secretgardenteahouse.net/">Secret Garden Tea House</a> (San Francisco) - Another tea lover favorite.</div><div><a href="http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/SanFrancisco/Default.htm">The Terrace at the Ritz-Carlton</a> (San Francisco) - High class tea time.</div><div><a href="http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/info/restaurantContent.jhtml?rest=200010&displayId=1900001">The Rotunda</a> (San Francisco) - Do some shopping at Neiman's then freshen-up with some tea.</div><div><a href="http://www.fairmont.com/sanfrancisco/GuestServices/Restaurants/TheLaurelCourtRestaurantandBar.htm">Laurel Court at the Fairmont</a> (San Francisco) - Opulent surroundings!</div><div><a href="http://www.lisastea.com/">Lisa's Tea Treasures</a> (Menlo Park, San Jose, Campbell) Victorian, frilly, girly tea! They do party bookings, too.</div><div><a href="http://www.theenglishrose.biz/">The English Rose</a> (San Carlos) - Nice, homey, traditional English Tea service</div><div><a href="http://www.fairmont.com/sanjose/GuestServices/Restaurants/AfternoonTea.htm">High Tea at the Fairmont</a> (San Jose) - Specialty kid's menu is especially cute!</div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-91775936005001470272009-11-05T00:35:00.000-08:002009-11-05T00:05:13.822-08:00Why you have to have a Mac when you travel...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/iChat.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 640px; height: 480px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/iChat.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><div>Alexi and I are currently in Pennsylvania visiting family. Math and The Hubs stayed behind since they both had school and work. I took my <a href="http://www.apple.com/">MacBook</a> with built in iSight with us, and we were able to use iChat video conferencing to talk about our day and say our goodnights. Alexi's favorite part was when his dad and brother superimposed themselves into an aquarium and did a bunch of other zany special effects for his benefit :0)</div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-2273999789025130292009-11-05T00:02:00.001-08:002009-11-05T00:04:01.590-08:00We Made It!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/airtravel2.jpg" style="text-decoration: none;"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 640px; height: 480px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/airtravel2.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/airtravel.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 640px; height: 640px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/airtravel.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-90812835393636345372009-10-31T00:51:00.000-07:002009-10-31T01:01:54.406-07:00Don't Eat the Marshmallow!This is by far one of my favorite lectures this year. Joachim de Posada explains the importance of self-control and life-long success. The little kids are pretty adorable, too ;0)<br /><br />Check it out!<br /><br /><center><br /><object height="326" width="446"><param name="movie" value="http://video.ted.com/assets/player/swf/EmbedPlayer.swf"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="wmode" value="transparent"><param name="bgColor" value="#ffffff"> <param name="flashvars" value="vu=http://video.ted.com/talks/dynamic/JoachimdePosada_2009U-medium.flv&su=http://images.ted.com/images/ted/tedindex/embed-posters/JoachimDePosada-2009U.embed_thumbnail.jpg&vw=432&vh=240&ap=0&ti=553&introDuration=16500&adDuration=4000&postAdDuration=2000&adKeys=talk=joachim_de_posada_says_don_t_eat_the_marshmallow_yet;year=2009;theme=speaking_at_ted2009;theme=ted_in_3_minutes;theme=unconventional_explanations;event=TED2009;&preAdTag=tconf.ted/embed;tile=1;sz=512x288;"><embed src="http://video.ted.com/assets/player/swf/EmbedPlayer.swf" pluginspace="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" bgcolor="#ffffff" allowfullscreen="true" flashvars="vu=http://video.ted.com/talks/dynamic/JoachimdePosada_2009U-medium.flv&su=http://images.ted.com/images/ted/tedindex/embed-posters/JoachimDePosada-2009U.embed_thumbnail.jpg&vw=432&vh=240&ap=0&ti=553&introDuration=16500&adDuration=4000&postAdDuration=2000&adKeys=talk=joachim_de_posada_says_don_t_eat_the_marshmallow_yet;year=2009;theme=speaking_at_ted2009;theme=ted_in_3_minutes;theme=unconventional_explanations;event=TED2009;" height="326" width="446"></embed></object></center>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-48284961195079818612009-10-30T14:35:00.000-07:002009-10-30T14:35:43.951-07:00I'm going on a trip, and with me I'm takin'...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/flight.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 541px; height: 377px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/flight.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><ul><li>1 toddler (2.4 year old, 36-pound body of pure obstinate bliss)</li><li>1 stuffed panda<br /></li><li>1 ultra-light FAA approved <a href="http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=10759858">booster carseat</a> with restraint system (I checked out the CARES restraint but it's not 5 point)<br /></li><li>1 <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Cheeky-Monkey-Designs-9277-Back/dp/B000GIBYQ0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=baby-products&qid=1256090337&sr=1-1-spell">Cheeky Monkey Pac Back</a></li><li>1 fully loaded 64 GB, 6 hour run time <a href="http://www.apple.com/ipodtouch/">iPod Touch</a> with protective cover and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Kidz-Gear-Headphones-For-Kids/dp/B0007NWL70/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1256092244&sr=8-1">headphones</a><br /></li><li>1 <a href="http://silvercrossamerica.com/">Silver Cross</a> Mini pushchair (to be checked at gate)<br /></li><li>1 <a href="http://www.patemm.com/">Patemm pad</a> (airplane bathrooms are gross)<br /></li><li>1 spill proof <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Playtex-Insulator-Twist-Click-Spout/dp/B001UFUFCW/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&s=baby-products&qid=1256090752&sr=1-12">sippy cup</a></li><li>1 backpack stuffed to the hilt with <a href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/packages.jpg">wrapped, inexpensive treats, toys, and distractions</a>.</li><li>2 Pre-filled Children's Benadryl packets (don't judge, it works for us), and a pack of <a href="http://www.hylands.com/products/calms4kids.php">Hyland's Calms Forte</a>.<br /></li><li>1 mini first aid kit (band aids, Tylenol, a few horse tranquilizers for myself) </li><li>2 plastic bags (vomit happens)<br /></li><li>2 change of clothes (again, vomit happens)</li><li>3 magazines for me (it might happen, or at the very least he can rip them to shreds...might provide 10 minutes of fun)<br /></li><li>5 organic lollipops<br /></li><li>10 diapers and full pack of wipes (because you never know how many you'll need)</li><li>Various snacks and pre-packaged favorite foods</li><li>Cash</li></ul>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-58830542216446556922009-10-29T16:56:00.000-07:002009-10-29T17:03:35.820-07:00Halloween Fiesta!Our friends threw a Halloween birthday party last weekend for their son who was born on October 31st! The kids all dressed up in their costumes, and we ate some pretty incredible paella, too! :0)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/alexbday.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 427px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/alexbday.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/alexbday2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 427px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/alexbday2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-72462791770848877332009-10-29T15:30:00.001-07:002009-10-29T16:09:42.428-07:00SuiteTrip.com<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.suitetrip.com"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 181px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/suitetrip.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: justify;">It's on! I'm lucky enough to count myself as one of the <a href="http://www.trekaroo.com/">Trekaroo</a> contributors for <a href="http://www.suitetrip.com/">SuiteTrip.com</a>. Fellow Treakroo writer, <a href="http://www.trekaroo.com/">Esther Lee</a>, and I join an awesome group of writers: Beth Blair, Jennifer Miner, and Kara Williams (<a href="http://www.thevacationgals.com/">The Vacation Gals</a>), Grant Martin and Scott Carmichael (<a href="http://www.gadling.com/">Gadling</a>), Lisa McElroy (<a href="http://www.suiteliving.com/">Suite Living</a>), and fellow Bay Area Mom, Jamie Pearson of (<a href="http://www.travelsavvymom.com/">Travel Savvy Mom</a>).<br /><br />Today <a href="http://www.suitetrip.com/">SuiteTrip</a> launched their site for all the world to see. Under the umbrella of <a href="http://homewoodsuites1.hilton.com/">Homewood Suites Hilton</a>, the site allows you to check out awesome travel tips like budget vacations, family friendly destination spots, and what to pack!<br /><br /><br /></div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-69783430022290953932009-10-27T18:54:00.001-07:002009-10-29T17:04:49.671-07:00Parent Dish Daily Cuties<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/daily.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 178px; height: 258px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/daily.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />I got a message from a friend on Facebook today informing me she saw my kids featured as the "Daily Cutie" on <a href="http://www.parentdish.com/">Parentdish.com</a> today!<br /><br />Makes me happy since I love this photo :0)Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-28401796510098062312009-10-23T14:59:00.000-07:002009-10-23T15:04:54.609-07:00Alexander Peers Park<div style="text-align: justify;">Our family has really come to enjoy <a href="http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/depts/csd/news/details.asp?NewsID=116&TargetID=14">Alexander Peers Park</a>. Having two kids that are very spread out in age (6 years) there's something for both of them to enjoy, and plenty of shade for us parental units. There are several tennis courts, a wide open space for running, and a really cool rock-form play structure. It's also set back from the street, and is along the train line. Every now and then you get an opportunity to point and hear the Caltrain whoosh by!<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/peers.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 640px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/peers.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-35787754526065904152009-10-15T11:15:00.000-07:002009-10-15T13:09:07.424-07:00Oregon Shakespeare Festival<div style="text-align: justify;">We went to Ashland, Oregon last weekend for our annual meet up with family, and to catch a few <a href="http://www.orshakes.org/">plays</a>. If you've got yourself a budding thespian (and we do), don't miss an opportunity to partake in some incredible shows! Ashland is located about 6 hours north of here in a tiny hamlet town that's reminiscent of an Old World society full of scholars and poets (and there are troubadours!). It's also worth mentioning the killer coffee shops, the great dining options, fantasy stores, hiking trails, and parks.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/parkboys.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 427px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/parkboys.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/fallpark.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 427px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/fallpark.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Lilith Park</span><br /></div><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oregon_Shakespeare_Festival">OSF</a> plays 9 months of the year, and boasts one of the largest repertories in the country. They bring in notable actors and artists from all around, and were even written up in <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/15/theater/15oregon.html">NY Times</a> this year!<br /><br />There are several different theaters including an outdoor venue. It's so wonderful to drink mulled wine under the stars listening to iambic pentameter lilt away. Insanely enough, the kids pick up on it pretty quickly, and the actors are typically very physical with lots of gestures and body language. The minimum age to see a play is 6. Every year there are several family friendly plays and musicals both by Shakespeare and other notable writers. This year we saw Much Ado about Nothing, Don Quixote, and Music Man. If you have other younger ones and no one to watch the kids there are reputable daycare providers available (and pet sitters that will massage and walk fido, too, go figure).<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/OSFplay.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 305px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/OSFplay.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>The nicest thing about OSF is most of the actors in the company are down to earth, friendly, and typically live in town. Last year, we took the backstage tour and were guided by one of the leads from the show we saw the previous night! Matthew thought that was totally cool! We learned about how sets were designed, and how costumes are made. We even hung out in the green room, and learned more about life as a new actor!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/backstage.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 474px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/backstage.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Mark Bredard, our tour guide and principle actor</span><br /></div>Can't make it up to Oregon? Arrange for OSF to come to your <a href="http://www.osfashland.org/education/teachers/school.aspx">child's school</a>! The company has a visit program that will work directly with your curriculum and teacher to bring Shakespeare to your young ones in a fun and dynamic way.<br /></div>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-31357666273577168452009-09-22T22:28:00.000-07:002009-09-22T23:11:28.032-07:00"My Son is Inigo Montoya...Prepare to Die"My son started fencing this year. Surprise, surprise...he LOVES it.<br /><br />We signed up for classes at the new <a href="http://www.paloaltojcc.org/">Jewish Community Center</a> in Palo Alto. No, we're not Jewish, but the facility is very friendly and welcoming to all interested parties. The staff was super helpful in getting us all set-up even though the center hadn't officially opened yet, and they were super nice about my crazy kids running around like they owned the joint. The facility is state-of-the-art, eco-friendly, and very fabulous. Alexi can run around out in the courtyard while Math's in his class. As long as the weather holds out it's a win-win.<br /><br />The class itself is wonderful! The teachers are very, very thorough and encouraging. They kids are all very collaborative, and advise each other. I love that the older boys mentor the younger ones. There is a huge amount of etiquette involved, and I appreciate that the game melds competitiveness and good sportsmanship together. And, of course, there are swords, right? What's better than that?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/fencing.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 427px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/fencing.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-69479540359523628782009-09-21T23:19:00.000-07:002009-09-21T23:44:35.653-07:00Samuraí ExhibitYesterday was the last day of the San Francisco <a href="http://www.asianart.org/">Asian Art Museum</a>'s <a href="http://www.asianart.org/Samurai.htm">Samuraí</a> exhibit. So cool! We both learned tons of stuff and took in the glorious sunny weather. While the Samuri exhibit is no longer going on, the museum itself is chock full of intersting art, programs, and resources. Not to mention it's in a gorgeous building full of amazing architecture at every turn.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">My older son and I have been exploring what it means to be Asian, or in his case half Asian, together. I'm adopted and growing up I didn't really think much about what it means to be Asian. I grew up in an Irish Catholic family and was loved and happy...really it didn't occur to me to question my cultural identity till I had kids of my own.<br /><br />I've explained to my son for awhile now that he is half Korean and half Caucasian, and he is also adopted and he is also American. He's more obsessed with making time travel happen at the moment so this isn't a subject that comes up often. Again, yesterday we talked about how he was of Asian decent and how the cultures and foods and folkways and mores are different than the ones he's grown up with. He seemed to think the whole thing was pretty cool since, in his mind, being Asian makes him half ninja warrior...okay, kid, okay.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/samurai2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 427px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/samurai2.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/samurai.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 427px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/samurai.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8100886534613480598.post-83264144657666346852009-09-10T13:20:00.000-07:002009-09-10T13:32:34.837-07:00Pizza AnticaWe were at Santana Row and went to <a href="http://www.pizzaantica.com/">Pizza Antica</a> for dinner the other night. The kids love this place and so do we for several reasons:<br /><br />1. Call ahead seating up to a half hour in advance. If we know we're on our way here for dinner we call ahead and put our name on the list...it shaves off wait time by a good 20 minutes!<br /><br />2. The kid food is good! Math scarfs down their spaghetti every time, and for him that's saying something (boy is the pickiest eater alive).<br /><br />3. Affordable prices as far as Santana Row dining goes.<br /><br />4. Kid friendly environment. There are lots of families who eat here, so you don't feel like you're ruining anyone's nice meal out. The open room makes for noisy acoustics, but really if you're kid throws out the occasional screech no one's going to bat an eye. There's also outdoor seating if you're in the mood for alfresco dining.<br /><br />Really, what's not to like?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/antica1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 427px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/antica1.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/antica.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 640px; height: 427px;" src="http://www.bayareababyblog.com/Images/antica.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Catherinehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16045122601566004173noreply@blogger.com1