tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-58608865643241529002024-03-04T23:10:30.104-05:00Brunching With Kidsa DC area family lifestyle blogUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-59499380182356645162018-05-22T08:00:00.000-04:002018-05-22T08:00:08.722-04:00Best Splash pads in the DC AreaLast summer, I decided the kids and I would visit a different splash pad every weekend. This was the best decision ever. I was able to get a tan while the kids ran around. And best of all, it was free and I did NOT have to get in a bathing suit. We cannot wait to finish our list this summer!<br />
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1. Yards Park<br />
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2. Our Special Harbor Playground<br />
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3. Georgetown Waterfront Park<br />
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4. Virginia Highlands Park<br />
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5. Potomac Yard Park<br />
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6. South Germantown Splash Ground <em>(not free)</em><br />
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<iframe height="480" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=128u2FFTfw1BYVhRx5aDbcPqNIVq7VCb6" width="640"></iframe><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-33752494348840142672018-05-19T16:50:00.001-04:002018-05-19T16:50:27.872-04:00Kid Friendly Activities in the DC AreaPeople always ask me for DC activity suggestions when they have friends/family coming to visit with kids. Half the time I blank and mumble something about the zoo. When a friend asked me this a few weeks ago, I decided to finally write down an entire list including restaurant options. This way, it's easy to plan an afternoon with a dinner option close by!<br />
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<iframe height="480" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1M4Sp1bHc8LwaaThq-b2GyFmx9QFVC6Bg" width="640"></iframe><br />
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<h3>
Like a local</h3>
<strong>DC</strong><br />
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1. <a href="https://www.eastcitybookshop.com/" target="_blank">East City Bookshop</a><br />
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2. <a href="https://www.wharfdc.com/" target="_blank">The Wharf DC</a><br />
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3. <a href="https://usna.usda.gov/" target="_blank">United States National Arboretum</a><br />
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4. <a href="https://www.beauvoirschool.org/page/about/visit-our-playground" target="_blank">Beauvoir Playground</a><br />
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5. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/meridian-hill-park.htm" target="_blank">Meridian Hill Park</a><br />
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6. <a href="https://www.nps.gov/rocr/planyourvisit/naturecenter.htm" target="_blank">Rock Creek Park Nature Center and Planetarium</a><br />
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<strong>Maryland</strong><br />
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1. <a href="https://glenechopark.org/" target="_blank">Glen Echo Park</a><br />
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2. <a href="http://www.playseum.com/" target="_blank">Be With Me Playseum</a><br />
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3. <a href="http://climbzone.us/laurel/" target="_blank">ClimbZone</a><br />
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4. <a href="http://www.collegeparkaviationmuseum.com/1593/College-Park-Aviation-Museum" target="_blank">College Park Aviation Museum</a><br />
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<strong>Virginia</strong> <br />
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1. <a href="https://www.virginia.org/listings/OutdoorsAndSports/GravellyPoint/" target="_blank">Gravelly Point</a><br />
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2. <a href="http://flighttrampolinepark.com/springfield" target="_blank">Flight Trampoline Park Springfield</a><br />
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3. <a href="https://www.novaparks.com/parks/upton-hill-regional-park" target="_blank">Upton Hill Regional Park</a><br />
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4. <a href="http://torpedofactory.org/" target="_blank">Torpedo Factory</a><br />
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<h3>
Highly recommended</h3>
1. <a href="https://hirshhorn.si.edu/" target="_blank">Hirshhorn Museum</a><br />
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2. <a href="https://airandspace.si.edu/" target="_blank">Smithsonian Air & Space Museum</a><br />
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3. <a href="https://www.spymuseum.org/" target="_blank">International Spy Museum</a><br />
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4. <a href="https://nmaahc.si.edu/" target="_blank">National Museum of African American History & Culture</a><br />
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5. <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.org/dc" target="_blank">National Geographic Museum</a><br />
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6. <a href="https://www.museumofthebible.org/" target="_blank">Museum of the Bible</a><br />
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7. <a href="https://postalmuseum.si.edu/" target="_blank">National Postal Museum</a><br />
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8. <a href="https://nationalzoo.si.edu/" target="_blank">Smithsonian National Zoo</a><br />
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9. <a href="http://www.mountvernon.org/" target="_blank">Mount Vernon Estate in Virginia</a><br />
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10. <a href="https://www.nbm.org/" target="_blank">National Building Museum</a><br />
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11. <a href="https://www.nga.gov/visit/shops/childrens-shop.html" target="_blank">National Gallery of Art - East Building Giftshop</a><br />
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Eats</h3>
1. <a href="http://www.2amysdc.com/" target="_blank">2 Amys</a><br />
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2. <a href="http://7hpizzapalisades.com/" target="_blank">7th Hill Pizza Palisades</a> <br />
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3. <a href="http://www.timberpizza.com/" target="_blank">Timber Pizza Company</a><br />
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4. <a href="https://www.littlepearldc.com/" target="_blank">Little Pearl</a> <br />
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5. <a href="http://wethepizza.com/locations/washington-d-c" target="_blank">We the Pizza</a><br />
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6. <a href="https://unionmarketdc.com/" target="_blank">Union Market</a><br />
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7. <a href="http://www.chadwicksrestaurants.com/" target="_blank">Chadwicks</a> in Old Town<br />
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8. <a href="http://www.busboysandpoets.com/about/locations" target="_blank">Busboys & Poets</a> (several locations)<br />
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Sweets</h3>
6. <a href="http://icecreamjubilee.com/find-us" target="_blank">Ice Cream Jubilee</a><br />
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7. <a href="https://abakedjoint.com/" target="_blank">A Baked Joint</a><br />
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8. <a href="https://bakedandwired.com/" target="_blank">Baked & Wired</a><br />
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9. <a href="http://thepretzelbakery.com/" target="_blank">Pretzel Bakery</a><br />
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10. <a href="https://www.kilwins.com/stores/kilwins-alexandria" target="_blank">Kilwin's</a> in Old Town<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-19966282030197489842018-05-09T08:00:00.000-04:002018-05-09T16:48:24.098-04:00Interview with an 8 year old about Camping<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A few weeks ago we went on a family camping trip to <a href="http://www.first-landing-state-park.org/" target="_blank">First Landing State Park</a> in Virginia Beach. It’s a beautiful park on the shores of the Chesapeake Bay. This was our second time camping as a family. We do what I call tent camping but my husband calls it car camping. It was FORTY degrees the first night, and 50 the second. Enjoy this interview with my 8 year old daughter!<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #783f04;">Q. What was your favorite thing we did while camping?</span></strong><br />
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A. When we walked on the beach because I like the way the sand feels.<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #783f04;">Q. What is your happiest memory from our trip?</span></strong><br />
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A. Climbing the tree at our campsite.<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #783f04;">Q. Tell me two things we did as a family on our trip?</span></strong><br />
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A. Went hiking and sat around the campfire.<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #783f04;">Q. Did you see any animals?</span></strong><br />
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A. Besides birds? Yes, ants.<br />
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<span style="color: #783f04;"><strong>Q. Tell me a funny thing that happened on our camping trip?</strong></span><br />
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A. When I was swinging on a branch, it broke.<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #783f04;">Q. What is one word to describe camping?</span></strong><br />
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A. Fun!<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #783f04;">Q. What advice would you give other kids about camping?</span></strong><br />
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A. Bring a sweatshirt and a rain jacket.<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #783f04;">Q. What do you love most about camping?</span></strong><br />
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A. The nice warm fire.<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #783f04;">Q. What do you think makes a fun camping trip?</span></strong><br />
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A. If you have someone to play with.<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #783f04;">Q. What is the grossest thing about camping?</span></strong><br />
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A. Nothing is gross.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-89531136800047159542018-05-05T11:19:00.002-04:002018-05-08T16:19:12.405-04:00Old Town Alexandria Gift GuideAll of our family lives out of the DC area, so we love bringing gifts from Old Town Alexandria. I’m always scrambling at the last minute though and trying to remember what I found where. To solve this I went exploring on a recent day off and struck gold!<br />
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1. <a href="https://arworkshop.com/alexandria/" target="_blank">AR Workshop Alexandria</a> 107 N. Fairfax Alexandria, VA 22314<br />
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This Boutique DIY studio has a great selection of ready to purchase Alexandria themed gifts such as pillows, coffee mugs, and wine tumblers. Love the “Tipsy in the 22314” ones! Be sure to check out their awesome chalk clipboard events calendar while you are there.<br />
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2. <a href="https://www.visitalexandriava.com/plan/visitors-center/" target="_blank">Alexandria Visitor Center</a> 221 King Street Alexandria, VA 22314<br />
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Right next to AR Workshop is the Alexandria Visitors Center in the historic Ramsey house. They sell gifts such as koozies, totes and Virginia Peanuts. This group also branded the amazing Instagram hashtag “extraordinaryALX”. The staff here is so friendly! <br />
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3. <a href="http://www.reunionsva.com/" target="_blank">The Old Town Shop</a> 105 S. Union Street Alexandria, VA 22314<br />
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You can’t do a gift guide post without mentioning this place! This was actually my first time at Old Town Shop and I couldn’t get over how many gift options there are. I especially like their selection of local food such as honey, steak sauce, and spice rubs. They even have an adorable kiddie corner so this is a great pit stop.<br />
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4. <a href="http://www.reunionsva.com/" target="_blank">Reunions</a> 1709 Centre Plaza Alexandria, VA 22302<br />
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I have religiously shopped at Reunions for years. Baby shower gifts, kids birthday gifts, 30 year old birthday gifts, etc. Such one of a kind and reasonably priced items. They also have a few Alexandria theme gifts even though they are not in the heart of old town. My own Mother has an Alexandria pillow in her Texas living room. Happy shopping!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-82781085179592541872018-03-19T11:00:00.000-04:002018-05-19T17:37:45.570-04:00Best Beaches near DCThere are several options for getting in some waves and sun here in the DC area. Most are average 3.5 hour car ride, which for us means one stop at Chickfila. Typical with the DC area, there is ALWAYS horrible traffic getting to and from the beach in the warmer weather. Please note that my drive time estimates are for non-rush hour, summer months.<br />
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1. <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Rehoboth+Beach/@38.7184394,-75.0771308,16z/data=!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x89b896667c7333a7:0x61182de5a751636a!2sRehoboth+Beach,+DE!3b1!8m2!3d38.7209454!4d-75.0760137!3m4!1s0x89b8b6659ec47133:0xea503ca6ecc52508!8m2!3d38.71681!4d-75.0757518" target="_blank">Rehoboth Beach, Delaware</a> (3 hour drive)<br />
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Just a short car ride over the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, this is the closest beach to the DC area. We love Rehoboth as there is a boardwalk, several kid-friendly restaurant options and Funland. Street parking is metered and can be a competition to secure. Rehoboth is the best day trip beach option!<br />
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2. <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Ocean+City,+NJ/@39.2604909,-74.6732446,12z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c0a53f45731825:0xbb986daa629826e7!8m2!3d39.2776156!4d-74.5746001" target="_blank">Ocean City, New Jersey</a> (4 hour drive)<br />
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When you say Ocean City in the DC area, most folks assume you mean Maryland. NOPE - there is a nicer and smaller Ocean City in the southern Jersey Shore, and it is the ultimate family friendly environment. OCNJ is best for weekends or week long rentals. Most rentals come with beach tags. Yes, beach tags. A foreign concept to this Texas girl originally. There are several restaurants and a boardwalk for evening entertainment.<br />
Fun fact: you can take a ferry from Lewes, Delaware which is very close to Rehoboth, to get to Ocean City by way of Cape Mays!<br />
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3. <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Virginia+Beach,+VA/@36.7953392,-76.2935117,10z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x89bac1e8fc1527a7:0x4161080a32e0173!8m2!3d36.8529263!4d-75.977985" target="_blank">Virginia Beach, Virginia</a> (4 hour drive)<br />
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The first option south of DC for salt water is Virginia Beach. We haven't spent a lot of time in Virginia Beach as compared to Delaware and Jersey, but it doesn't disappoint. The best part about Virginia beach is the playground ON the beach. There are several hotel options right on the beach with parking included. <br />
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4. <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Kill+Devil+Hills,+NC+27948/@36.0200823,-75.7035344,13z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x89a4e02e4f1acf99:0xbe6f5aea12b3aff8!2sKitty+Hawk,+NC+27949!3b1!8m2!3d36.0646102!4d-75.7057346!3m4!1s0x89a4e1a20a2e3e67:0xbca05b56ff6d3f45!8m2!3d36.0307071!4d-75.6759739" target="_blank">Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina</a> (5 hour drive)<br />
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Heading down south to the land of the pine, going my way to North Caroline... Outer Banks is a great option for splitting a beach rental with family/friends. Huge perk: several rentals come with a pool and hot tub. I grew up spending the morning at the beach and the afternoon at the pool. The best!<br />
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5. <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Dewey+Beach,+DE+19971/@38.6962,-75.0839103,15z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x89b895b9eed4194d:0xf08cc9cf23bf8db!8m2!3d38.6928899!4d-75.0746249" target="_blank">Dewey Beach, Delaware</a> (3 hour drive)<br />
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We went to Dewey Beach over Spring Break to check it out. It was cold but we loved it! It's a mix of hotels, residential, and good restaurants. The town is about 8 blocks so you could get away with not driving once you have arrived. We cannot wait to come back in the warmer months!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hyatt Place Breakfast Area</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-34182621996736730622018-03-18T19:32:00.002-04:002018-03-18T19:35:30.909-04:00Map of Local ParksCheck out some of our favorite parks in the area! Let me know if you have any recommendations.<br />
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<iframe height="480" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/embed?mid=1X8az5kFNQyXGkBNL-e7vjkpc6ZRE9FYo" width="580"></iframe><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-37687817429707664202018-03-10T21:30:00.003-05:002018-03-10T21:31:11.350-05:00Friday FiveFriday Five<br />
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1. One of my favorite Instagram bloggers (I think that’s a thing? Idk...) is Bev from <a href="http://www.bevcooks.com/">www.bevcooks.com</a>. She has the BEST <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bevcooks/" target="_blank">instagram</a> stories. I was dying on the one from a few weeks ago about the SpaceX rocket launch. Anyways, we are determine to finally cook a few of her recipes: this <a href="http://bevcooks.com/2018/03/three-cup-thai-chicken/" target="_blank">Three Cup Chicken</a> and <a href="http://bevcooks.com/2016/07/italian-chicken-rice-casserole/" target="_blank">Italian Chicken and Rice Casserole</a>.<br />
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2. I need to hit up one of my favorite consignment store in Old Town Alexandria this weekend: <a href="https://www.divaboutiqueva.com/" target="_blank">Diva Designer Consignment</a>. 40% off regular price this weekend and 75% off coats and boots! I have been obsessed with coats lately.<br />
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3. Who else is excited for the<a href="https://youtu.be/YBpdL9hSac4" target="_blank"> Incredibles 2</a> movie to come out June 15!!<br />
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4. We are making our way through the entire Seinfeld seasons. I need to purchase Season 4 soon. I have the <a href="https://m.imdb.com/title/tt0697765/" target="_blank">Red Dot episode</a> downloaded to my phone and I watch it on the metro ride home sometimes. The <a href="https://youtu.be/pgXAt_gstcs" target="_blank">scene</a> where Kramer drinks old scotch is hilarious!<br />
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5. Recent Amazon purchase: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00008MOF7/ref=ya_aw_od_pi?ie=UTF8&psc=1" target="_blank">Cat food</a>.<br />
We have two adorable 5 month old kittens, Kassie and Kallie, and they eat classy wet food. They ate this brand at their fosters after they were rescued from a church basement. Kassie had major stomach issues early on so we don’t want to switch it up just yet. Problem is only Whole Foods and Petco/Petsmart carry the brand. I finally realized the best deal was on amazon. Thanks amazon prime!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-29384657628394835872018-03-07T08:00:00.000-05:002018-03-07T08:00:21.066-05:00Brunch at Bar PilarI thought we would be spontaneous and grab brunch after we participated in a <a href="http://www.stonesoupfilms.org/film/theatre-lab/">Family Improv Class</a>. Apparently I forgot about reservations and how popular brunch on a Saturday can be. Whoops. <br />
<br />The hostess at Bar Pilar was very friendly though and encouraged us to hang out in this little alcove under the stairs. There was some confusion when we were being seated, but they graciously moved us to a different table. <br />
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The <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/54dd34fee4b01f834adc1e2e/t/5a452c5fe4966b67c57c0633/1514482784291/Brunch+Menu+Pilar.2017.12.09.pdf">Bar Pilar brunch menu</a> is amazing! They have the best brunch cocktails with funky names such as "Apple Bottom Jeans Slushie" and "Beware of the Locals". We stuck to our standard bloody Mary's though and they were delicious. Reminded me to never order a bloody mary at an airport bar again.<br />
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I ordered the "Hangover Cure" which was basically a southern breakfast bowl with biscuits and gravy, eggs, and home fries. Love me some biscuits and gravy.<br />
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Their menu also had a great selection of side items for the kids to order from. I made the rookie mistake though and forgot to ensure they didn't garnish the eggs with anything... our 4 year old LOST it when his eggs had fresh parsley on them. Ugh. Also, the kitchen was slammed when we placed our order and we waited a looooong time for our food. <br />
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This brunch reminded me that the food and drinks must outweigh the effort it takes to take kids to brunch. And Bar Pilar, you were worth the effort!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-65004401553608773632018-03-02T16:25:00.001-05:002018-03-02T16:27:48.887-05:00Friday Five1. My new favorite beauty protect is the <a href="https://www.itcosmetics.com/bye-bye-breakout/ITC_687.html" target="_blank">Bye Bye Breakout</a> from IT Cosmetics. LOVE IT.<br />
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2. We played a new board game at a friends last weekend - <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/0975277324/ref=sxnav_sxwds-bovbp_m_2?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=3514142302&pd_rd_wg=yVJ2n&pf_rd_r=N30AMR2ZGEN9SFG77APD&pf_rd_s=desktop-sx-nav&pf_rd_t=301&pd_rd_i=0975277324&pd_rd_w=94jrv&pf_rd_i=ticket+to+ride&pd_rd_r=0e4a6b39-d3ad-42c0-a310-1c7f7b00a2b2&ie=UTF8&qid=1520024376&sr=2" target="_blank">Ticket to Ride</a>. It's not as intense as <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Catan-Studios-MFG-3071-Edition/dp/B00U26V4VQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=toys-and-games&ie=UTF8&qid=1520024495&sr=1-1&keywords=settlers+of+catan" target="_blank">Settlers of Catan</a> or <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/0786950072/sr=1-2/qid=1520024410/ref=olp_product_details?_encoding=UTF8&me=&qid=1520024410&sr=1-2" target="_blank">Acquire</a>, but we are definitely adding this to our rotation! They also have a European version!<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=brunchingwith-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=0975277324&asins=0975277324&linkId=550cbecd2d10bdb267fdf72a8ada2083&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </iframe><br />
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3. I love to diffuse oils instead of burning candles. (Although I do like my yankee candle in the bathroom.) I started out with Doterra oils 2 years ago but have decided to try out different brands. I so far really like the Aura Cacia brand AND I can grab them on Amazon. Free shipping and see you in two days. I am curious about <a href="https://vitruvi.com/" target="_blank">VITRUVI oils</a>. Although it might just be the amazing packaging.<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=brunchingwith-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B001DJ6J0C&asins=B001DJ6J0C&linkId=77cf5c89b85a51ce3661982ef04625fc&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"><br /> </iframe><br />
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4. <u>Recent Amazon Purchase:</u> <br />
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Over the Cabinet Door Bag Holder for the kitty litter box (sexy, I know)<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=brunchingwith-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B01LXLZPJC&asins=B01LXLZPJC&linkId=a50ee5d76add427f1981732d089334b5&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </iframe><br />
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5. <u>Recent Amazon Find:</u> <br />
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This bag is all over the Instagram Fashion Blogs. I cant decide if I will really use it for brunch!<br />
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5. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-46879201680754323152018-02-25T23:03:00.001-05:002018-02-25T23:03:42.512-05:00Weekend Wrap<ul>
<li>Washingtonian is on fire lately. They recently posted articles on:</li>
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<li><a href="https://www.washingtonian.com/2018/02/22/here-are-7-actually-great-restaurants-for-catering-a-kids-birthday-party/">7 Restaurants Great for Catering a Kid's Birthday part</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.washingtonian.com/2018/02/23/6-best-dc-bloody-marys-with-crazy-garnishes/">6 Best DC Bloody Marys</a></li>
<li>And previously <a href="https://www.washingtonian.com/2017/08/21/7-great-secret-gardens-parks-and-plazas-around-dc/">7 Amazing Gardens in DC</a>. The one in Old Town we have walked past several times and had no clue!</li>
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<li>I am so tickled the Astros and the Nationals <a href="https://www.mlb.com/nationals/spring-training/ballpark">share same the location for Spring Training</a>. I grew up an INSANE Astros Fan (more on this later), and love supporting our hometown DC team! Go NATS and OMG the Astros WON the World Series!!!</li>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-77274497254094097662018-02-24T13:40:00.001-05:002018-02-25T10:52:58.392-05:00Friday FiveFriday Five on a Saturday<br />
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1. I have been reading the <a href="https://www.wsj.com/news/cio-journal" target="_blank">CIO Journal</a> email from WSJ every morning since subscribing last week. It’s refreshing and inspiring to read what’s going on in the Tech world. I loved reading on Thursday about a new approach called <a href="https://blogs.wsj.com/cio/2018/02/21/how-low-code-can-you-go-it-tests-disruptive-app-development/?mod=djemCIO_h" target="_blank">low code</a>.<br />
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2. We hosted a sleep under Friday night for a few 2nd graders. I had a blast looking on <a href="https://pin.it/3nrndq65ug7tmo" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> for ideas. I also ordered everything online and/or did pickup at Harris Teeter.<br />
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3. My mom told me a few weeks ago that a movie is being made from one of my favorite books ever: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/%3Ca%20target=%22_blank%22%20href=%22https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0316204269/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=0316204269&linkCode=as2&tag=brunchingwith-20&linkId=752693043bff5ad1da90925a218071df">Where'd You Go, Bernadette: A Novel</a><img src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=brunchingwith-20&l=am2&o=1&a=0316204269" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />">Where’d You Go Bernadette</a> by Maria Semple. I CANT WAIT. This book is so good. It’s about a mother-daughter relationship. I started re-listening to it on Audible. <br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=brunchingwith-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=0316204269&asins=0316204269&linkId=dc7f4d0105506235150bf944b3d192c3&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </iframe><br />
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4. Most recent amazon purchase: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B072MKNB1P/ref=mp_s_a_1_16_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1519497405&sr=8-16&keywords=derma+roller&dpPl=1&dpID=41Zq8-hoR1L&ref=plSrch" target="_blank">Microneedling Derma Roller</a><br />
I finally purchased a facial microneedling roller. I’m hoping it will help these wrinkle lines on my forehead. I know, looks like a torture device.<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=brunchingwith-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B072MKNB1P&asins=B072MKNB1P&linkId=c6c026e1b4a07d35444eaca019662701&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"><br /> </iframe><br />
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5. Recent Amazon find: <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0722HCQ47/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_2?smid=A22MPW6F9ZZ2XA&psc=1" target="_blank">Hilarious door mat</a><br />
Im totally going to get this!<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=brunchingwith-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B074PQP7GJ&asins=B074PQP7GJ&linkId=291b26b2a01cec7a2193e000f66b65fb&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"><br /> </iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-12948789626582021652018-02-22T20:29:00.000-05:002018-02-22T20:36:35.294-05:00Brunch at Espita MezcaleriaI took the kids to see a Disney on Ice at Capital One Arena on Presidents Day. We tried to grab brunch afterwards at <a href="http://espitadc.com/" target="_blank">Espita Mezcaleria</a> just up the street, but it was too late in the afternoon. <br />
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We did however make happy hour and just ordered at the bar. They delivered the food to the table directly. It actually worked out great!<br />
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I was still able though to order Avacado Tostada. IT WAS AMAZING.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2EhXOgvY5wxHy07cHX1eRl2KU8lvc17eyqo6qOyeQ1fPbl8XSjal5a4xwIkQZ1KbEMK5YODZ4XM39kSafd8GLvl0KlBdv2ZCjeRNtXPyRz0Jl7ei4bdd83j3gn74d193tC_p1ZQrOhpk/s1600/IMG_2858.HEIC" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2EhXOgvY5wxHy07cHX1eRl2KU8lvc17eyqo6qOyeQ1fPbl8XSjal5a4xwIkQZ1KbEMK5YODZ4XM39kSafd8GLvl0KlBdv2ZCjeRNtXPyRz0Jl7ei4bdd83j3gn74d193tC_p1ZQrOhpk/s320/IMG_2858.HEIC" width="240" /></a></div>
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The food was great and the staff were friendly and accommodating. We can’t wait to go back for actual brunch!</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-23632964736405163292018-02-17T18:46:00.001-05:002018-02-17T18:46:46.561-05:00The Weekend Wrap<br />
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<ul>
<li>Washingtonian has a GREAT list for <a href="https://www.washingtonian.com/2018/02/16/where-to-brunch-for-presidents-day-around-dc/" target="_blank">Brunch spots</a> this weekend. </li>
<li>Remember, visiting <a href="http://www.mountvernon.org/plan-your-visit/calendar/events/washingtons-birthday-celebration/" target="_blank">Mount Vernon</a> this Monday, February 19 is FREE!</li>
<li>Have you heard about WMATA's new<a href="https://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local/Metro-Parking-Fee-Changes-Go-Into-Effect-Monday-472527933.html" target="_blank"> policy</a> on paying for parking? Basically, make sure you pay with the EXACT SAME SmartTrip card you tap at the turnstile. </li>
<li><a href="http://kidzbop.com/tour/" target="_blank">Kidz Bop LIVE 2018</a> tickets went on <a href="http://purchase.tickets.com/buy/TicketPurchase?orgid=44689&pid=8541030&mkt_code=WOLFTRAP&_ga=2.86784472.1777907323.1518909914-337474636.1518909914" target="_blank">sale</a> this past week. They will be at Wolf Trap on August 25th! We listen to a lot of Kidz Bop in the car. </li>
<li>Chuckie Cheese birthday party was the first birthday party we have hosted where I didn't.have.to.bring.anything! The price wasn't too bad either since we kept it to a very small number. Check out my <a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2018/02/kids-birthday-party-venues.html" target="_blank">blog post</a> on hosting birthday parties in the DC area!</li>
</ul>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-26015930665833940262018-02-16T19:04:00.003-05:002018-02-16T19:04:47.173-05:00Friday Five<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"> 1</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">. A few years ago, I decided I needed to read "cozy mystery" genre books on the metro. One reason is because most of my metro ride doesn't have cell service, and two I need something light before and after work. My favorite series is the <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/series/88027-consignment-shop-mystery" target="_blank">Consignment Shop Mysteries</a> by Duffy Brown. These books are based in Savannah and are dripping with southern colloquialism. The next book is set to be released this year, and I cant wait!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=tf_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=brunchingwith-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=0425251608&asins=0425251608&linkId=7484e0aa3c90e6fedffca1bfc0c757c3&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"><br /> </iframe><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;">2. This <a href="https://www.buzzfeed.com/emofly/lifechanging-quesadillas?utm_term=.cgNZavgVE#.twOoMykBj" target="_blank">list</a> gave me some great ideas for a more jazzed up quesadilla. I am making these <a href="https://www.howsweeteats.com/2013/07/chipotle-beer-shrimp-quesadillas-with-spicy-guac/#_a5y_p=1030909" target="_blank">Beer Chipotle Shrimp</a> ones tonight. Recipe is from one of my FAVORITE food blogs <a href="https://www.howsweeteats.com/" target="_blank">How Sweet Eats</a>. I tweaked it slightly to save on prep time by purchasing Del Monte mango chunks to mix in with Picante sauce and the spicy <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073MJ4XR2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=brunchingwith-20&camp=1789&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B073MJ4XR2&linkId=2ba84db005eda346d92e4da58505dd00" target="_blank">Wholly Guacamole</a> minis.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">3. We are still loving our Territory Food deliveries on Monday mornings. I brought the Chicken pesto with spaghetti squash to work this week and it hit the spot. Use <a href="https://www.territoryfoods.com/yum/BRUNCHINGWKIDS" target="_blank">my code</a> to get $25 off. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">4. Recent Amazon Purchase: I got so tired of taking a bubble bath with the kids bath toys, so I thought amazon has to have some space saving solution. Sure enough, this <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003ZHVDAG/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=brunchingwith-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B003ZHVDAG&linkId=81a69f8489376ec98fdea52e33eaac90" target="_blank">shower curtain liner with pockets</a> did the trick!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">5. Recent Amazon Find: I love house plants and have several spots in our house that
I want to put them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I want LIVE house
plants though but I always seem to kill them!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>My mom and my grandmother have amazing green thumbs too.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think I should try these self-watering
stakes from amazon. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=brunchingwith-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B078HR4MG5&asins=B078HR4MG5&linkId=1ec3403db8f11f0f1824c6b2b1457791&show_border=false&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"><br /> </iframe></span><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-81128160493713930852018-02-13T21:40:00.002-05:002018-02-16T19:05:08.263-05:00Gift Guide: for a FOUR year old boy<div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #313131; font-family: -apple-system, HelveticaNeue; font-size: 16px; word-spacing: 1px;">
I think I am denial that my youngest is now four years old. He was such a quiet, snuggly and happy baby. Now he is a rambunctious, loud, and beloved chatterbox. I actually wrote his <a href="http://awonderfulbirth.blogspot.com/2016/05/grateful-for-modern-medicine.html?m=1" target="_blank">birth story</a> for another friend blog two years ago. Check that out and check out the gift guide below for any four year old boy!<br />
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<a data-originalcomputedfontsize="16" data-removefontsize="true" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075B4ZKR2/ref%3Dox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie%3DUTF8%26psc%3D1%26smid%3DA17YB75I39OFKO&source=gmail&ust=1518627776768000&usg=AFQjCNG8FGDTVGPDaTXSRy7C_ojk1Zdz1g" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B075B4ZKR2/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A17YB75I39OFKO" style="color: #4285f4; font-size: 1rem;" target="_blank">Construction Truck Mini Excavator Follow Black Line</a><span style="font-size: 1rem;"> </span><span style="font-size: 1rem;">+</span><span style="font-size: 1rem;"> </span><a data-originalcomputedfontsize="16" data-removefontsize="true" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.amazon.com/Pacon-PAC57015-Fadeless-Bulletin-50-Feet/dp/B00006IDXW/ref%3Dsr_1_4?ie%3DUTF8%26qid%3D1518531139%26sr%3D8-4%26keywords%3Dwhite%2Bpaper%2Broll&source=gmail&ust=1518627776768000&usg=AFQjCNFw0LImqtYjYI6lFu0XTezX8IF4Kg" href="https://www.amazon.com/Pacon-PAC57015-Fadeless-Bulletin-50-Feet/dp/B00006IDXW/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1518531139&sr=8-4&keywords=white+paper+roll" style="color: #4285f4; font-size: 1rem;" target="_blank">White Paper Roll</a></div>
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<span class="m_8818574007647994805a-size-large" data-originalcomputedfontsize="16" data-removefontsize="true" style="font-size: 1rem;">This is the coolest thing – the little construction truck follows any sharpie line you draw on a white piece of paper. It goes without saying you need to also gift a huge white paper roll! No sharpie marks on a wood floor please!<u></u><u></u></span></div>
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<a data-originalcomputedfontsize="16" data-removefontsize="true" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L630XGA/ref%3Dox_sc_sfl_title_12?ie%3DUTF8%26psc%3D1%26smid%3DATVPDKIKX0DER&source=gmail&ust=1518627776768000&usg=AFQjCNHmAO8zZvvOQdRPxHG7gTeAltaxDg" href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01L630XGA/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_12?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER" style="color: #4285f4; font-size: 1rem;" target="_blank">Racetrack that bends, flex and glows</a><u></u><u></u></div>
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What a fun way to spend a winter evening with glow in the dark race tracks.<u></u><u></u></div>
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<a data-originalcomputedfontsize="16" data-removefontsize="true" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.amazon.com/Prince-Lionheart-7600-Balance-Bike/dp/B001QIH7QA/ref%3Dsr_1_fkmr0_1_a_it?ie%3DUTF8%26qid%3D1518532843%26sr%3D8-1-fkmr0%26keywords%3Dprince%2Blionheart%2Bstrider%2Bbike&source=gmail&ust=1518627776768000&usg=AFQjCNGRKyN66jLmvtBS7U6WKR6odLCaFQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/Prince-Lionheart-7600-Balance-Bike/dp/B001QIH7QA/ref=sr_1_fkmr0_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1518532843&sr=8-1-fkmr0&keywords=prince+lionheart+strider+bike" style="color: #4285f4; font-size: 1rem;" target="_blank">Balance Bike</a><u></u><u></u></div>
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This is actually the gift we are giving our 4 year old this year. He is tickled to have his first bike. I actually found this in the clearance section at Home Goods 6 weeks ago.<u></u><u></u></div>
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<a data-originalcomputedfontsize="16" data-removefontsize="true" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.amazon.com/Kids-Binoculars-Watching-Activities-Accessories/dp/B076DBGP84/ref%3Dsr_1_2_sspa?ie%3DUTF8%26qid%3D1518533022%26sr%3D8-2-spons%26keywords%3Dkids%2Bbinoculars%26refinements%3Dp_72%253A2661618011%26psc%3D1&source=gmail&ust=1518627776768000&usg=AFQjCNEeVyphuPWSpoXDBiFe3I2cjBp8wQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/Kids-Binoculars-Watching-Activities-Accessories/dp/B076DBGP84/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1518533022&sr=8-2-spons&keywords=kids+binoculars&refinements=p_72%3A2661618011&psc=1" style="color: #4285f4; font-size: 1rem;" target="_blank">Binoculars</a><u></u><u></u></div>
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I’m taking the kids to see Disney on Ice Frozen next week and they will need binoculars up in the nose bleeds!<u></u><u></u></div>
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<a data-originalcomputedfontsize="16" data-removefontsize="true" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.amazon.com/Kids-Binoculars-Watching-Activities-Accessories/dp/B076DBGP84/ref%3Dsr_1_2_sspa?ie%3DUTF8%26qid%3D1518533022%26sr%3D8-2-spons%26keywords%3Dkids%2Bbinoculars%26refinements%3Dp_72%253A2661618011%26psc%3D1&source=gmail&ust=1518627776768000&usg=AFQjCNEeVyphuPWSpoXDBiFe3I2cjBp8wQ" href="https://www.amazon.com/Kids-Binoculars-Watching-Activities-Accessories/dp/B076DBGP84/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1518533022&sr=8-2-spons&keywords=kids+binoculars&refinements=p_72%3A2661618011&psc=1" style="color: #4285f4; font-size: 1rem;" target="_blank">T-ball Set</a><u></u><u></u></div>
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We start t-ball next month and as soon as the weather is nice we need to get outside and practice.<u></u><u></u></div>
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<a data-originalcomputedfontsize="16" data-removefontsize="true" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.facebook.com/HerveTullet/&source=gmail&ust=1518627776768000&usg=AFQjCNGh42o6h8jRMS8leqhdwQeCnSgEBw" href="http://www.facebook.com/HerveTullet/" style="color: #4285f4; font-size: 1rem;" target="_blank">Herve Tullet Products</a><u></u><u></u></div>
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We LOVE the <a data-originalcomputedfontsize="16" data-removefontsize="true" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.amazon.com/Press-Here-Herve-Tullet/dp/0811879542/ref%3Dsr_1_1?ie%3DUTF8%26qid%3D1518533132%26sr%3D8-1%26keywords%3Dhenre%2Btullet&source=gmail&ust=1518627776768000&usg=AFQjCNF9NHbRcWWuNnX48HSx0do_R23v0w" href="https://www.amazon.com/Press-Here-Herve-Tullet/dp/0811879542/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1518533132&sr=8-1&keywords=henre+tullet" style="color: #4285f4; font-size: 1rem;" target="_blank">Press Here Now</a> book and the <a data-originalcomputedfontsize="16" data-removefontsize="true" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.google.com/url?sa%3Dt%26rct%3Dj%26q%3D%26esrc%3Ds%26source%3Dweb%26cd%3D5%26cad%3Drja%26uact%3D8%26ved%3D0ahUKEwj_2-uYkaPZAhVR62MKHb08ALIQFghBMAQ%26url%3Dhttps%253A%252F%252Fwww.facebook.com%252FHerveTullet%252F%26usg%3DAOvVaw1SqxcH07oA7EthRGmwe3bF&source=gmail&ust=1518627776768000&usg=AFQjCNGpPMLfmhbRHInG122jBNvM81M9vA" href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=5&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwj_2-uYkaPZAhVR62MKHb08ALIQFghBMAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FHerveTullet%2F&usg=AOvVaw1SqxcH07oA7EthRGmwe3bF" style="color: #4285f4; font-size: 1rem;" target="_blank">Press here Game</a> was a huge hit last year. This is one of the <a data-originalcomputedfontsize="16" data-removefontsize="true" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.amazon.com/Say-Zoop-Herve-Tullet/dp/1452164738/ref%3Dsr_1_3?ie%3DUTF8%26qid%3D1518533132%26sr%3D8-3%26keywords%3Dhenre%2Btullet&source=gmail&ust=1518627776768000&usg=AFQjCNF0kE9_UPoEE4GcjsINGzQeN-tL_w" href="https://www.amazon.com/Say-Zoop-Herve-Tullet/dp/1452164738/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1518533132&sr=8-3&keywords=henre+tullet" style="color: #4285f4; font-size: 1rem;" target="_blank">newer books</a>.<u></u><u></u></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-74962316357538240192018-02-12T21:42:00.001-05:002018-02-16T20:56:01.507-05:00Kids Birthday Party IdeasPlanning indoor birthday parties in the DC area can get a little crazy. If you aren’t careful, it’s easy to drop atleast $300 and upwards. Our small house isn’t conducive to having a good old fashioned pin the tail on the donkey party. As soon as the holidays conclude, I start brainstorming for another fun, interesting and affordable birthday party option. I outlined some of these below complete with pros and cons.<br />
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<a href="http://paintthis.com/paintthis/Welcome.html" target="_blank">Paint This! Old Town Alexandria</a></h3>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TF_fB2fvZLcxfjZfEq6d4kKVABuJjfoBuqM3T2Db28Xcpva2A-l6kOiqoMtWPqthv_q8_N2LlKrY2rx8pH1eVv5l5bWV30HLj6OpBkUdHcjlHinEio8vj-aOeTcO6EmWCZwi7m1d6qI/s1600/IMG_2324.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TF_fB2fvZLcxfjZfEq6d4kKVABuJjfoBuqM3T2Db28Xcpva2A-l6kOiqoMtWPqthv_q8_N2LlKrY2rx8pH1eVv5l5bWV30HLj6OpBkUdHcjlHinEio8vj-aOeTcO6EmWCZwi7m1d6qI/s200/IMG_2324.PNG" width="112" /></a></div>
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We loved the birthday party at Paint This! as it was easy to schedule and I could bring in whatever outside food I wanted. You pay a fee per child ($12/painter) and then pay for the pieces they paint. I pre-selected a few styles that were around the $5-7 range, and had the kids chose from that.<br />
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<b><u>Pros</u></b>: So easy to schedule and pay for and you have a lot of control over the final cost by pre-selecting the ceramics. You could also just serve cake and decrease costs in the food area.<br />
<b><u>Cons</u></b>: I had to bring everything to serve snacks and cake (cutting board, knife, etc.). The staff at Paint This! were so great to work with though.<br />
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<a href="https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/recenter/lee-district/facilities" target="_blank">Soft play room @ Lee District Rec Center</a></h3>
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This option is a great deal! For in county residence it was just $50 to rent the soft play room in the basement of the rec center for about an hour. You also have the option to rent a multi-purpose room to serve food and drinks afterwards. We opted to invite everyone back to our place and ordered the Papa Johns special for $50. It was crowded though as mentioned above!<br />
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<b><u>Pros</u></b>: It was great having a dedicated room for just our party at such a great price. The kids went wild over all the equipment.<br />
<b><u>Cons</u></b>: No one over the age of 5 was allowed in the room, so you have to be aware of guests older siblings and this is only an option for a brief few years. They also have very limited times to schedule a party, so planning ahead is essential.<br />
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<a href="https://www.alexandriava.gov/recreation/info/default.aspx?id=12352" target="_blank">Chinquapin Rec Center </a>also has a soft play room and a party package option.<br />
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<a href="https://www.thelittlegym.com/AlexandriaatHuntleyMeadowsVA/parties-camps/parties" target="_blank">Little gym</a></h3>
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This is definitely one of the more expensive options but it was worth it. The hour birthday party is jammed pack full of gymanastic and tumbling activities. The staff at the little gym literally take care of everything, and they are also very engaging with the kids. We did a double birthday here about 2 years ago and it was a huge hit.<br />
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<strong><u>Pros</u></strong>: I loved that they provide plates, napkins and cups and helped with passing out food/cake . They also have a few themes to choose from, so you can create a unique party experience for your kiddos.<br />
<strong><u>Cons:</u></strong> The cost is the worst part, and you have to provide the food in addition to the Little Gym cost, driving up costs even more.<br />
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<u><a href="http://flighttrampolinepark.com/springfield/parties/" target="_blank">Trampoline Park</a></u></h3>
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We did not schedule one of the party options offered by Flight Trampoline park in Springfield as my daughter just wanted to take 4 friends, but their party options include tons of perks that allow you to just show up and JUMP. <br />
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<u><strong>Pros: </strong></u> Pizza and tableware are provided in the cost as well as the uber fabulous socks. <br />
<strong><u>Cons</u></strong>: They have a sliding price scale for party times with weekend slots being more expensive.<br />
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A few other ideas to highlight:<br />
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<li>Ice skating party at Kettler Ice Skating Complex and Martha Washington Rec Center </li>
<li>Laser Tag @ Ultra Zone Falls Church</li>
<li>Chuckie Cheese </li>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-57284993525581844122018-01-24T23:29:00.003-05:002018-02-16T20:55:29.072-05:00Restaurant Week: Foodies favorite two weeks in the DistrictI have always loved DC restaurant week. Maybe because it’s when I first felt my oldest move when I was pregnant with her (She got excited over watermelon gazpacho).<br />
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What is <a href="http://ramw.org/restaurantweek" target="_blank">restaurant week</a> you ask? It’s when restaurants all across DC provide a prefix menu for a set price for lunch and dinner, for one week during January and August every year. So it’s basically the best way to check out fancy restaurant and know exactly what you’re going to be paying at the end. Lunch is the best bang for you buck though.<br />
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End of summer 2016 we took her then six-year-old with us for lunch to Rasika and introduced her to “fine dining”. She did really well and loved the date with mommy and daddy.<br />
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We always try and go on a date during restaurant week and try a new place. We have made it tradition for almost a decade now! <br />
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Delicious Salli Boti (Lamb curry) and Chicken Tikki Masala from Rasika Penn Quarter</div>
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Cornbread Tortellini at Farmers & Distillers</div>
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Crawfish Etouffee at Acadiana</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-50604548984724423482018-01-21T21:55:00.002-05:002018-02-16T19:05:22.677-05:00Gift Guide: For the EIGHT year oldI CANNOT believe my oldest will turn 8 in just a few days. Where did the time go!? It’s true what they say about how the days are long but the years are short. I have compiled a gift guide, approved by said 8 year old and parents!<br />
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<b>1. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B071JPL3LD/ref=mp_s_a_1_29?ie=UTF8&qid=1516582309&sr=8-29&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=slime" target="_blank">Nickelodeon Cra-Z Slime</a></b><br />
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This was the number one top gift request from the babe herself. I like that you have to make your own. This also can be classified under developing tactile senses and STEM. Maybe. She also has become obsessed with all things Nickelodeon (Henry Danger, Jojo Siwa, etc) so this slime is fitting. (They slime people during their award shows...)<br />
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<b>2. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01L2UKLBE/ref=mp_s_a_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1516583080&sr=8-15&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=candy+kit" target="_blank">Candy Making Science Kit</a></b><br />
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What 8 year old doesn’t like candy, so I had the idea to have them make their own candy. My children also love cooking with me in the kitchen, and this kit seems to have a lot of stirring, mixing, etc.<br />
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<b>3. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/1544721153/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1516583559&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=emotional+feelings+coloring+book&dpPl=1&dpID=51Dl4LMiVAL&ref=plSrch" target="_blank">Emotional Feeling Coloring Book</a></b><br />
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Let’s face it - what 8 year old doesn’t need help with regulating emotions.<br />
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<b>4. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/1452105456/ref=mp_s_a_1_19?ie=UTF8&qid=1516584055&sr=1-19&refinements=p_n_feature_five_browse-bin%3A2579000011&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&dpPl=1&dpID=51f5vIdeZDL&ref=plSrch" target="_blank">MoMa Coloring Book</a></b><br />
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This one might be my favorite! What a great way to introduce a child to the Musuem of Modern Art in NYC, especially if you do not reside in NYC. <br />
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<b>5. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01FHOYK5O/ref=mp_s_a_1_44?ie=UTF8&qid=1516584453&sr=8-44&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=my+little+pony" target="_blank">My Little Pony Lite-Brit’s Magic Screen Toy</a></b><br />
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I think it’s cute she is still into My Little Pony’s. She’s been into them since Kindergarten. This is also another cool art toy. <br />
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<b>6. <a href="https://m.toysrus.com/product?productId=119030106" target="_blank">Monopoly Junior My Little Pony </a></b><br />
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We recently realized we have not introduced our children to monopoly. I personally blame too many never-ending games played as a child during electricity outages during Hurricanes, but I digress. Any Monopoly Junior theme would do as well for an 8 year old.<br />
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<b>7. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00HHYV786/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_9?smid=AKT8066M3L1H1&psc=1" target="_blank">Kids bathrobe</a></b><br />
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Kids around this age begin expressing interest in a bathrobe. They have just outgrown the hooded towels and are not quite sure how to wrap themselves in a big towel. Bonus if you can get it personalized!<br />
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<b>8. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B073T1Z5SZ/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_4?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1" target="_blank">Aero Garden</a></b><br />
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With both my kids having winter birthdays, I’m always trying to find something unique that they can do indoors while waiting for spring. This Aero Garden seems like a great idea. They will love helping me cook with the herbs as well.<br />
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<b>9. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00IRXJARG/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_4?smid=A19QWA1WF6JO2Y&psc=1" target="_blank">AquaDoodle Drawing Mat</a></b><br />
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This is also one of my favorites - I like that it is big enough to lay on the floor for a weekend or snow day of doodling! (notice the theme towards art and drawing?)<br />
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<b>10. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0125KRB04/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_2?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1" target="_blank">Baby Alive Snacking Baby Doll</a></b><br />
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I feel like this is the last of birthdays where you can give a baby doll...and that makes me so emotional to think about! I think it’s important however for kids to have baby dolls as it encourages their nurturing side. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-86281475130711775422018-01-21T13:06:00.000-05:002018-02-16T20:52:35.041-05:00How to fly with kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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With my family living halfway across country, the kids at this point in their life have made a few plane rides. I can count the bad moments on one hand and the good moments on the other hand. Basically if you go in prepared and with absolutely no expectations you will be fine.<br />
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It’s also obvious that the older the kids get the easier it gets to some extent.<br />
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Tip #1: As soon as you get into your seat, take out everything you think you’ll need for the kids from the bag and put it in that backseat pocket for easy access.<br />
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Tip #2: Always always always pack an additional set of clothes everything from socks to underwear. I swear the drinks on the tray tables just hop into the children’s lap sometimes.<br />
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Tip #3: For the love of all that is holy, relax. Kids feed off of nervous energy can sense when you’re stressed. <br />
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Tip #4: Download a few episodes of their favorite TV show (or Movie) so that they can watch this when the device is in airplane mode. Also make sure you have the right headphone adapter and or headphones for that device... this was my personal mistake this past time!<br />
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Tip # 5: Try and get the kids to say hello to the flight attendants, especially the ones that greet you when you walk on the plane. Bonus if the pilot is standing there too. Some of my worst situations on flights it has been the flight attendants that have really come to my rescue. Or it has been a way to distract them by talking about the pilot they saw when boarding.<br />
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As far as what to pack, the list is quite simple: 1 to 2 of their top toys, 1 to 2 of their top snacks, crayons, small coloring books, sticker books, activity books etc., and their favorite book. Safe travels!<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-11896757220600206392018-01-20T13:53:00.001-05:002018-02-16T20:52:35.026-05:00How to Eat While Traveling: Kids VersionI recently mentioned to my husband that I’d love to take the kids traveling internationally, but I asked him “what in the world would we feed them!?” The voracious eaters they are, main entrees are luncheables, Campbell’s chicken soup, and velveeta Mac and cheese cups, chicken nuggets, with some pasta and meatballs thrown in for good measure.<br />
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We were able to experience the confines of their limited diet when we visited San Antonio over the holidays. I can’t believe I am admitting this, but I think one of my favorite restaurant experiences on the Riverwalk was at the Rainforest Café. They had a kids menu that the children loved and the atmosphere kept them entertained so that I could finish my Coronita.<br />
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At one point during the trip we went into a little market store and I unashamedly grabbed bags of Cheetos and Doritos. The last night, we ended up ordering room service just for the children and it was one of the best decisions we made on that trip. <br />
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Probably one of the worst decisions I made on that trip was forgetting to stop at a grocery store before we got to downtown San Antonio to stock up on shelf-staples for them to nosh on. Also I think I discovered the value of microwave and fridge in the room and a free continental breakfast in the morning at a hotel. I knew that going in and chose a great price and location over those two amenities. <br />
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To say all that though, I think we are still going to take the kids on an international trip this year. I will be putting some extra thought and planning however into ensuring the list of main entrées will be on hand easily accessible!<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-29505175383749313962015-04-13T14:26:00.000-04:002015-04-13T14:43:04.309-04:00Inspiration for the WeekHere is some inspiration to kick those Monday blues to the curb and power you up for the rest of the week:<br />
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Last fall I stumbled across this <a href="http://www.newsobserver.com/living/fashion/article10089020.html" target="_blank">article</a> about Betty Halbreich, an 86 year old personal shopper at Bergdorf Goodman in NYC. I quickly purchased her book <a href="http://www.newsobserver.com/living/fashion/article10089020.html" target="_blank">Secrets of a Fashion Therapist</a> where it has remained on my night stand as my favorite quick read. This book is my inspiration for organization my closet, a every three week rhythm in my house, and this is the week! I love Betty's advise on maintaining your current clothes and investing in basic staples such as black blazers and sweaters. It's because of her that I enjoy hanging up my clean clothes and inspecting them for lose threads and organizing them in such a way that I can quickly get dressed with confidence every morning!<br />
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A few weeks ago I read in a tabloid magazine (I indulge in reading these on my metro rides) that Mariska Hargitay who plays Olivia from Law & Order SVU credits learning to breathe through stressful situations as why she is aging so gracefully. She claims to <i>hold her breathe</i> when she is faced with confrontation or a high stress situation. I might try that one of these days, but for now I have noticed that taking a deep breathe through your nose and breathing out completely alters my mood and for the better. <br />
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This <a href="http://www.scarymommy.com/making-mom-friends-after-having-a-baby/" target="_blank">article</a> from Scary Mommy made me laugh out loud about venturing out and making mommy friends. In my experience it's worse than dating! Starting now this printed and framed article is all I will give at baby showers. <br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-7195081977380390062015-04-12T21:58:00.001-04:002015-04-12T22:00:19.646-04:00Brunch at Joe Theismann's The Saturday after Thanksgiving last year, we all went to brunch at <a href="http://www.theismanns.com/" target="_blank">Joe Theismann's</a> in Old Town before my parents caught a flight back to Texas. We consider Joe Theismann's our neighborhood restaurant. <br />
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<a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2015/04/number-one-criteria-service.html" target="_blank">Service</a>: The service was incredible. Our server joked with our oldest and the baby as well. <br />
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<a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2015/04/number-two-criteria-seating-arranagement.html" target="_blank">Table arrangement</a>: We were seated at a large round table in the large back room. <br />
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<a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2015/04/number-three-criteria-food.html" target="_blank">Food</a>: Incredible. We love their Joe's Benedict, with Canadian Bacon or Maryland Crab. The serving sizes are big enough we were all able to give the baby bites and our oldest had just ate at home before.<br />
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<a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2015/04/criteria-number-four-distractions.html" target="_blank">Distractions</a>: Our oldest loves their crayons and coloring menu.<br />
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Overall A for all <a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2015/04/criteria-for-pleasant-restaurant.html" target="_blank">criteria</a>. We also highly recommend their happy hour, especially if you can sit outside. Inside is a little tricky as they have booths, but will provide booster seats.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-66645053154611328712015-04-12T21:43:00.002-04:002015-04-13T13:54:48.776-04:00Brunch at Matchbox ChinatownOne rainy Saturday this past January, we met some friends at <a href="http://matchboxchinatown.com/" target="_blank">Matchbox</a> in Chinatown for brunch. We originally suggested Matchbox for brunch as it was listed as one of six kid friendly restaurants in a recent Washingtonian Mom magazine <a href="http://www.washingtonian.com/mom/family-eats/6-kid-friendly-restaurants-in-washington/" target="_blank">article</a>. <br />
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<a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2015/04/number-one-criteria-service.html" target="_blank">Service</a>: Acceptable. Our food was quite delayed coming to the table, but I believe this was based on how busy Matchbox was on this particular day.<br />
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<a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2015/04/number-two-criteria-seating-arranagement.html" target="_blank">Table Arrangement:</a><br />
I didn't mention to our friends that we would need a high chair, so they were originally sat in a booth as they arrived a few minutes before us. My husband was left to maneuver both kids, and wait for a high chair while I was outside in the rain trying to close our double stroller. (Me: 0 Double Stroller: 1). Needless to say our entire party was flustered by the time we all sat down.<br />
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<a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2015/04/number-three-criteria-food.html" target="_blank">Food:</a><br />
Our oldest was quite happy with the side of fruit as was our toddler. I ended up splitting the Mexican Breakfast pizza with my son, and I had to pull off what I thought would be just a little too spicy. The table favorite, however was the amazing skillet cinnamon rolls.<br />
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<a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2015/04/criteria-number-four-distractions.html" target="_blank">Distractions:</a><br />
Apparently every wonderful DC Mom who reads the magazine took their kids to brunch that Saturday as our server claimed they were completely out of crayons and kids coloring menus. This was kind of annoying, but no biggie, we can deal and had our own distractions.<br />
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Service: B<br />
Table Arrangement: D<br />
Food: A<br />
Distractions: D<br />
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Please note: I took the kids back to Matchbox for an early Sunday dinner the next weekend and we scored A's in all 4 categories. All of us loved the <a href="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/CCaYhc3UEAAf2GY.jpg:large" target="_blank">meatball</a>!<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-71505291330983294612015-04-12T20:06:00.000-04:002015-04-12T21:46:43.107-04:00Criteria Number Four: Distractions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The final of our <a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2015/04/criteria-for-pleasant-restaurant.html" target="_blank">four criteria</a> for successfully eating out with your kids is mastering the art of distraction! Distractions can be anything from the coloring page menu and crayons most restaurants in the DC area hand out to their youngest patrons, to the ice in your water glass. My oldest loves to draw in my work notebooks with a pen.<br />
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You can purchase things such as <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Uncle-Johns-Scrambled-Brains-Brainteasers/dp/1626860394/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1428882481&sr=8-3&keywords=placemat+activity+pack" target="_blank">tear-off place mats with activities</a>, which will keep your kids busy at least until the main course arrives. We did purchase at one point, the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sesame-Disposable-Placemats-Reusable-50-Count/dp/B000R7L80C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1428882458&sr=8-1&keywords=reusable+placemats" target="_blank">disposable stick on place mats</a>. But our kids ended up being entertained with pealing the place mat off the table...again and again. Still worked as a great distraction though!<br />
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We keep two tricks up our sleeve for last resort distractions. The first is I will hold my half drank water glass (and you thought I was kidding) and let the baby/toddler play in the ice water. I swear this at one time or another has kept them entertained for 30 minutes. This also works best outside, which is why we said <a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2015/04/number-two-criteria-seating-arranagement.html" target="_blank">outdoor seating is the optimal accommodation</a>. <br />
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The second one is, of course, your smart phone or tablet. Even the mere mention of "would you like to play with my phone?" sometimes will encourage them to go back to coloring, or playing with the napkin. This occurs though around 4 years old.<br />
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Also, remember that this is an opportunity for you kids to learn acceptable social behavior in public. My oldest will begin to say "Mommy I'm so bored can we go yet." I respond with "No, not yet we have to ask the server for the check." Sometimes, I "task" her with keeping her eye out for the server, passing by our table so that we can politely ask for the check. Works like a charm!<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5860886564324152900.post-68210137551405906942015-04-12T17:27:00.001-04:002015-04-12T22:01:53.306-04:00Number Three Criteria: Food!<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0in;">
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">It's ironic that food is the third criteria for creating a great restaurant outing with kids. But we promise you that our first two criteria, <a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2015/04/number-one-criteria-service.html" target="_blank">service</a> and <a href="http://brunchingwithkids.blogspot.com/2015/04/number-two-criteria-seating-arranagement.html" target="_blank">seating arrangement</a>, are more crucial than the food selection. Most if not all restaurants will offer something on the menu for your kids, and let's face it, the reason you are going out with your kids is for you to imbibe in the food (and drink!), not your kids.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">One of the first tricks I learned with my oldest (and she is picky, picky, picky) is to look
at the appetizers and side dishes first, not the kids menu. Some of our
favorite restaurants pride themselves on not having a kids menu, so I operate
as if kid menus don't exist. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">We also try to bring something along that
I know the kids will eat, a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/EarthS-Best-Organic-Fruit-Oatmeal/dp/B0083ZZFE0/ref=sr_1_15?ie=UTF8&qid=1428876242&sr=8-15&keywords=baby+food+pouch" target="_blank">pouch</a>, goldfish, etc. This way no big deal if
their isn't anything appetizing for them on the menu, and the bill is cheaper! Also, we have had much success if the kids have already eaten at home, or are between meals such as brunch on the weekend. If you choose this method however, you need rely on the art of distractions, which is our next blog post.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Some Suggestions:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><i>Asian Fusion/Sushi:</i> Miso soup, chicken fried rice, avocado/cucumber sushi</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><i>Mexican:</i> Tortilla chips and Queso</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><i>Italian:</i> the easiest! Any pasta and any sauce</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;">Spaghetti and meatballs (or just meatballs!), hummus, carrot sticks, fruit, and bread with butter are always a hit as well!</span></li>
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