In the 2-1-2

We usually keep our blog banter local, but sometimes, a girl needs to get away. And what better place than New York City with old friends? It’s no surprise, really, but a city like New York really does have something for everyone, whether it’s a weekend with the kids, without the kids, or just with girlfriends. Here are my top five (and then some) to keep in mind for your next jaunt:

1.) Nolita: Café Habana. Cuban/Mexican takeaway spot. Corn-on-the-cob with chili powder, cheese and butter. Need I say more?
2.) West Village: Magnolia Bakery. Brave the lines for the cupcakes made famous by Sex and the City (pictured), or try one of the smaller bakeries nearby for other phenomenal treats.
Marc by Marc Jacobs. Three store fronts on Bleeker Street. One sells cute MJ trinkets ($1 and up!), and the others offer men’s, women’s and the adorable kids line, “Little Marc.” Does the “Marc Who?” shirt come in my size?
3.) Times Square: If you’re not blinded by the lights, look for the guy in the Spiderman suit. He might be the new Naked Cowboy.
Toys’R’Us: Just inside the doors is an enormous indoor ferris wheel. Extra points if you make it further than that!
4.) 5th Avenue: Really, what’s not to love here? Apple’s flagship store is particularly stunning with its 32-foot glass cube entrance at street level.
5.) Meatpacking District: Vento. This narrow wedge of a building sits at 14th & Hudson and specializes in small plates. Size isn’t an issue though, because everything is delicious. The patient wait staff knows it can take hours to decide, but don’t think too hard. Just order it all.

-liz

Swap Meet

Doesn’t spring make you want to shop? We all have our favorite places to shop (as our schedules and finances permit), and for me, it’s places like Nordstroms, Barney’s and Zara, or online faves shopbop.com, net-a-porter.com and eBay--if only just to browse.

Well, we’ve just learned about an upcoming shopping event that is completely unlike your normal shopping experiences. It’s for a great cause, and it sounds like a lot of fun.

The Dallas Closet Swap happens May 5 from 6-9pm at the Women’s Museum at Fair Park, and the concept is simple:

1. Purchase a $25 ticket online at www.dallasclosetswap.com
2. Bring at least five new or nearly new items from your closet (“golden rule” applies here, ladies—only bring something someone else would want, according to the website)
3. Trade your treasures for someone else’s
4. Enjoy free food, cocktails and spa treatments from sponsors like Bliss Spa, The Lash Lounge, Barefoot Wines and Paciugo Gelato
5. Support Genesis Women’s Shelter, and go home happy

So clean out your closets, and have a great weekend!
-Liz

Copy Cat Kiddos

Mama’s who love the famed “fast fashion” house, Zara, will be thrilled to know that their little tots (both guys and dolls) can be just as fashionable with Zara’s children’s line now at the Dallas Galleria store. Cheap and chic, the Spanish-based Zara is known for their ability to produce merchandise quickly, and restocking according to each stores’ clientele preferences. No matter if you’re pairing a Zara tee with a Seven jeans for boys, or one of their dresses with a denim jacket from Gap Kids for girls, it’s the perfect addition to any closet - big or small.

Lauren

O, My!

Big news! Huge news in fact! The ladies from IntelliGender (I first mentioned this mom-founded company on Oct. 30 in my blog Boy or Girl?) have been wooed by none other than the queen of the talk-show circuit herself, Ms. Oprah Winfrey!

(I wrote about my experiences with the at-home gender detection test in our February issue, so, um, yeah, we scooped O … oh, yeah! Lol.)

One of the co-founders, Rebecca, contacted me earlier this month to let me know that she and her business partner, Teresa, were going to be filmed for a segment dubbed “Moms with the Next Big Idea.” A fantastic opportunity for the company and I am so thrilled for them, but in my tiny, little corner of the world, you know what the best part is? The ladies asked if they could have a “sample of my solution” to use during the taping to show how the test works. Odd request, I know … but for me, it was thrilling … this may be the closest I ever get to being on Oprah, lol.

Since my test on Halloween determined I was carrying a boy (and several sonos and another IntelliGender test have confirmed), the ladies also needed “girl solution.” The only girl mommy-to-be I could think of was the wife of one of my husband Chris’ coworkers (she’s due the same time I am).

Having only met Tonya once, I knew asking her for such an offbeat thing would be a stretch, but I wanted to give it a shot. In the nicest, most politically correct way I could (is that even possible when you’re asking a stranger for a sample of urine?), I e-mailed Tonya and explained my — ahem — needs.

She was a total trooper! By the next day Tonya had agreed (she must share my same affinity for Oprah — that or it makes a great story to tell). Our husband’s joked that their wives were going to have “famous pee pee” — boys, what can you say? =) And last Friday Rebecca and Teresa collected our donations.

Armed with the Aquafina bottle sample (that would be mine) and the Gatorade jug (Tonya’s), the IntelliGender chicas were set — well, sort of. Rebecca e-mailed on Saturday to let me know that they (thankfully) had the forethought to each take half of the samples … just in case (you know the whole flying with “liquids” thing). Turns out Rebecca’s set of samples were confiscated by security!

She wrote: “Teresa made it with both solutions safely tucked away and double bagged in her luggage. Boy, that was a learning experience. The security guys told me I couldn’t travel with a baby bottle of apple juice without the baby. I informed him it wasn’t apple juice. =) That created quite a bit of curiosity! I’m usually pretty persuasive, but I didn’t win that battle!”

The ladies made it to the Oprah taping and now it’s a waiting game … the “winners” of the Moms With the Next Big Idea won’t be announced until April 27.

Stay tuned!

-Tessa

Sugar Rush

Here’s a great Easter event coming up in Richland Hills. The 5th Annual Special Bunnies Easter Egg Hunt will take place Sat., March 31 from 10 am-12 pm at Creek Trail Park (corner of Glenview and Airline Drives).

For the past few years, AT&T employees have hosted this event for special needs children and their families. There is sure to be an appearance by the Easter Bunny, face painting, and even an egg hunt with beeping eggs for the visually impaired. Call 817/690-3362 for further info.

On another sweet note, our office is buzzing about a new Dallas bakery. (It’s probably just a massive sugar high). Sprinkles, an import from Beverly Hills, is now open in Preston Center, and offers the sweetest, most adorable cupcakes. At yesterday’s low-key grand opening, lines were out the door and wrapped around the building for hours. I braved the crowds for two little cakes (I don’t mess around when it comes to my baked goods!), and it was worth every minute in line. Forty-five, to be exact.

A source in L.A. tells me the Beverly Hills location is just as busy…all the time, leading me to believe there is definitely a cupcake craze in Dallas’ future. Just don't eat too many.

-Liz

Baby Loot I’m Loving

The final countdown to “Peanut’s Debut” is on and I can hardly stand it! But I have found one fun way to make the days fly by … bulking up on baby gear. There are so many great new items available on the web for tots so I thought I’d share a few of my favs.

The folks at Saracina Designs have created a wonderful line of onesies and tees that boast fun, kid-friendly designs with simple artwork and catchy phrases. I can’t wait to see Peanut in the one I nabbed: it has the word “dream” with a graphic of a boat beneath … aww, be still a mommy’s heart.

Like most of the women I know, I’m OBSESSED with Grey’s Anatomy, so when I saw a company, Doodle Doo Designs, that had the genius forethought to emblazon a onesie with the word “McCutie,” how could I not fall in love!

During my “infertile myrtle” phase, I received a sample of a pink pacifier with my name stamped on the front. I thought it was a cute idea (I could just imagine the accidental binky swapping at daycare) and took it as “a sign” of things to come. Well, look at me now, lol. I ordered three pacifiers from My Pacifier with Peanut’s name on them and am counting down the days until I get to put them to good use.

I remember my mom making pallets on the floor of the living room when my younger sister was a baby so she could wiggle around. Well, welcome to the 21st century. The Floor Nanny Floor Nanny is like the “pallets” of yesterday, but it has a great, sewn-in cushion all the way around to keep Baby from rolling out of his play space. Also, great for getting in some much-needed tummy time.

Like any gal, I love shoes and make those in “kid” size and well, I’m in shopper’s heaven. Two of the cutest collections I’ve seen are the design-your-own Preschoolians (I custom-ordered some Dallas Cowboy inspired kicks, per Daddy’s request, for next football season) and the rain boot selection from Vincent Shoes Vincent Shoes. Though Peanut will be wearing his Preschoolians way before his Vincent’s (preschoolians start at tike size and Vincent’s at toddler), I love knowing I have great foot gear waiting for my little guy.

See some other great baby items I should check out? Shoot me an e-mail at senior.editor@dallaschild.com.

Happy hunting!

-Tessa

Celebs say the darndest things!

Just read on a celebrity blog that Brooke Shields gave an interesting interview to LIFE, which will hit the streets tomorrow, March 23rd. Here's a quote from the story:

"24/7 with the kids? I don't know how people do it. If my main job was just to be with the two of them, I would not be as effective. I would be short-tempered; I would be less appreciative. Some people just revel in it, and that's beautiful. I revel in a different way."

Thoughts from some "real life" mommies out there (the ones who don't have a private staff at their disposal)? Comment or email us.--shelley

Another Mommy-2-Be Moment

I’m quickly learning that as my pregnancy progresses, so do my paranoid tendencies. I had another “peanut” scare this week that quickly found me in the waiting room, the examination room and the sonogram room of my doctor’s office. Just before I left for my appointment, I checked my e-mail and found this message waiting for me from my mom, soon-to-be “Mimi”:

“I prayed in my grandbaby room for health, safety and peace last night. I talked to “Peanut” like he was already in the baby bed. After that I felt at peace — walk on faith baby, walk on faith.”

After reading her encouraging words, I knew in my heart that everything was going to be OK.

And it was.

~Tessa

For A Good Time, Call....

Today, Community Partners of Dallas and Tenet Healthcare launched StoryLine, a local number kids can call to hear a story, anytime, from anywhere.

Initially, StoryLine was conceived as entertainment for children in protective custody. But why not open it to the public, they thought, and let anyone enjoy being read to?

Four different stories are available, and they are read by some local personalities like WFAA's Gary Cogill and Brenda Teele. I called in and heard a snippet of “Is This a House for Hermit Crab?” by Megan McDonald.

The line is especially cool for kids in the hospital (it's like having Reading Rainbow OnDemand!), but I imagine there are many times when this service might come in handy.

Enjoy: 214/446-2222

-Liz

Fashion's Day in the Park

Last week NorthPark held it’s very own version of “Fashion Week” in tents outside the infamous white building (FYI – Mr. Ray Nasher, the catalyst of NorthPark Center, had the shopping center built in all white brick because according to him, all great buildings are white, and he has a point), hosting dozens of fashion shows. I attended many of them, taking notes on Spring’s saucy styles and must haves. Look for my tips and notes on last week’s shows in the upcoming issues of DallasChild – for both mom and child.

As for my favorite show, it’s hard to beat Barney’s
Simon Doonan, Creative Director of Barney’s New York, and his hilarious commentary on the show’s looks and fashion overall. CH Carolina Herrera had great and easy looks for moms for work, or those days out with the girls. But I can’t not mention Vilebrequin (look for a mention in DC April’s new style section). No surprise that it was about 98% women in that show, and over half of them resorted to fanning themselves (the AC apparently was not working…), and I’ve never heard such loud cheering for models as I did for the little guys that walked the runway. They couldn’t have been more than 5 years old, but they stole the shows from their much older fellow models.

Keep your eyes open for more stories from the fashionable first for Dallas in the months to come!

Lauren

Save Dallas Water!

Back in January, we wanted to tell you about 10-year-old DISD student Helanna Padgitt-Clark. Helanna won a cartoon-drawing contest sponsored by Dallas Water Utilities in which she designed an ad to encourage Dallasites to conserve water.

If you're familiar with our little Instant Messenger section in the magazine, you'll know that it's a short feature where we list community events, charitable endeavors or special kudos. As sometimes happens though, we had to cut our shout-out to Helanna at the last minute, due to space issues.

Since then, though, DWU has made an animated commercial based on Helanna's design. It will air on local and cable TV in April as part of DWU's 2007 "Save Dallas Water" campaign.

Here, for your viewing pleasure, a special preview, featuring the work of Helanna Padgitt-Clark.

Good job, Helanna!

-Liz

Monday, Bloody Monday

Monday, March 19 marks the four-year anniversary of the Iraq war. It's a somber anniversary to be sure, but the Dallas Peace Center is planning something poignant and supportive to mark this passage of (too much) time. The center will host a "Blood For Oil" blood drive from 11 am to 2 pm at 4301 Bryan Street in Dallas.

Donations will go to the Dallas Veterans Administraion Hospital, and donors will be given a quart of oil (and probably a cookie, for nourishment). It's a very pointed message, but a very positive gesture. Just think: war is costly, but the gift of blood is free, and you can't argue with that.

On a sweeter note, you can also show support for U.S. soldiers the Girl Scout way...with cookies! If you think you need a cookie after giving blood, just imagine how satisfying a box of Thin Mints will be to a guy driving a tank through Baghdad all day. Give a box or a case at Troop To Troop.com, a project sponsored by the North Central and East Texas Girl Scouts.

Have a great weekend!

-Liz

A Rasberry Worth Reading About

I just spent the afternoon chatting with a woman who gets paid to chat for a living … except this time she was on the receiving end of the interview. I met with Kellie Rasberry, the sassy, sarcastic, South Carolina native who wakes up the metroplex each day as co-host of the radio show Kidd Kraddick in the Morning.

Along with an entorage of players (our art director, a photographer, the photog’s assistant and Kellie’s nanny) prepping for a photo shoot, I sat down with the new mom (her daughter Emma Kelly is 4 months old) to discuss the highs (and lows) of single parenthood for the April edition of the Mom Next Door. Disarmingly honest, Kellie dished on everything from her battle with infertility to her infamous divorce to what it’s truly like to be a mom whose life is shared on-air (and online) with millions of fans.

This is a mommy profile you won’t want to miss.

-Tessa

p.s. Just before Emma Kelly gave in to the demands of heavy eyelids and a late afternoon nap, she graciously allowed Mom and me to get one quick group shot; pictured above.

I Heart Harry's

It is no lie that girls love their ice cream. One of my favorite late night treats is Wild About Harry’s frozen custard, and after dinner (but before our favorite 9 o’clock show starts), Liz and I will make a Harry’s run to get our sweet fix for the evening. Their frozen custard is undeniably delicious to all ages (and lower fat than real ice cream!!!).

Now Harry is doing more than just making sweets (and his award-winning hot dogs). From now until March 17, you can vote on a new flavor to be added to Harry’s already extensive flavor repertoire, will all proceeds of the new flavor going to the Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children right here in Dallas.

You can vote one of three ways: dropping by Wild About Harry’s store on Knox, calling them, or emailing them your pick for the new flavor. One thing’s for sure, you’ll heart Harry’s too after you try one of his frozen custard creations (my favorite is the coffee with Reese’s peanut butter cups on top)!

Wild About Harry’s
3113 Knox St. (Knox & US 75), Dallas 75205
214.520.3113
vote@wildaboutharrys.com

Lauren

PS - that's Harry standing next to their signature hot dog.

So Long, Nashville (Day Four)

Last night was the PPA awards banquet and just before we were seated, I caught something out of the corner of my eye … it was a BABY BUMP!

But it wasn’t mine.

Since I’m in awe of women who actually look preggers, I made Shelley introduce us. I was dying to know how far along the mommy-to-be was. Turns out, this rounded woman’s due date was one day before mine (what are the chances)! We chatted about being exhausted, our ability to slip into a decent pair of heels (at least for a few hours anyway) and being the only water-drinking ladies in a room full of wine and whiskey. She was too sweet (wish my pregnancy brain would allow me to recall her name, uugghh) and it was nice to mix and mingle with a like-minded chica, if only for a minute.

During the awards dinner (we had mushy steak, instead of the highly anticipated rubber chicken) I found myself seated at a table with ANOTHER pregnant woman … the final day of the conference and “we” (baby-bearing babes) were coming out of the woodworks, lol.

While finding a couple of other women who were sharing my woes (my feet are still swollen from all the traipsing around) was a treat, I have to say the highlight of the evening was that DallasChild took home a whopping 12 awards and Shelley and I had some great laughs along the way.

Now back in Big D (I just woke from a nice 3-hour nap … I’m not proud, lol), I’m beginning to unpack and reflect on my first business trip. While I learned a lot that I plan to take back to the office, the most important lessons weren’t the ones being doled out in hotel seminar rooms, they were the ones I learned from a fantastic mom I met along the way.

Thank you, Shelley, for sharing your parenting advice, your wisdom, your spirit and your friendship. Because of you I feel more prepared and more confident to step into the greatest role of my life: Mom.

~Tessa

"I'm With Preggers" (Nashville, Day Three)

I feel like I should be wearing a shirt that announces Tessa's delicate condition. Even though she is like 28 weeks pregnant, she is barely showing (go ahead, other mommies, insert bad word). Of course she makes sure she reminds me constantly that she is expecting ... i.e. she always gets the good end seat, while I, err, gracefully, take the middle seat. We walk slow everywhere (sort of) - lest she'll start muttering something about "braxton hicks." She can't get too hot or we'll both be fanning her. (Could the Nashville Frist Center for the Visual Arts please turn up the a/c?) She refuses to accompany me to a Nashville "honky tonk" ("the smoke bothers me") and all dining must have chocolate, Pee-can pie (she IS from Abilene, people) or French fries as menu options. And, for those hormonal moments, the only answer I can give is "yes," when she looks at me forlornly and asks if we can buy the cheesy $12.99 picture of us in front of the Grand Ole Opry (that's a work expense, right?).

But, I adore her. The trip would be a total bummer without her. Work conferences are great for a lot of things ... you get a break from the routine, you meet your colleagues from around the country who totally get your everyday dilemmas, you learn something new and meet some pretty innovative thinkers who make you want to run back to the office and re-do EVERYTHING (or just get a new desk calendar), you eat and drink WAY too much (unless your Tessa - relax Chris!) and you spend 80 percent of the time wishing you could just sleep more. But, best of all, you get to bond with your co-worker(s) and share a bottle of aerosol hairspray - well, we ARE Texas chicks - back and forth between two floors on the hotel, as well as cultivate a friendship the extends beyond the office corridors. And that, my friends, is worth the rubber chicken we're about to consume tonight.

Awards will be announced tonight and we'll try to post.

Happy Saturday --shelley

Nashville, Day Two

It's day two in Nashville and I have to say that Shelley and I are learning quite a bit - like how to dodge the homeless gentlemen hanging out downtown who have a tendency to yell at you as you pass by. How to jaywalk successfully while narrowly missing being hit by a speeding bus and how to avoid getting locked into a staring contest with the odd passerby peering into the Hooter's restaurant window (What can I say, we had a hankering for wings and the dining options downtown are minimal at best). But all this hub bub aside, we are getting great info about how to better our publications ... but I'll keep those fun tidbits under wraps for now. =)

Shelley and I rubbed elbows with magazine hobnobbers from across the state last night at a reception and even befriended three Bostonians and one mild-mannered New Hampshirite (all of which, including Shelley, chastized me, lovingly of course, for my West Texas accent). Noshing on steak and a desert tray to die for, Shelley and I were shocked to learn that Boston, unlike Dallas, doesn't support breastfeeding. (Our mouths dropped!) Maybe we should paper their city with our extensive collection of "breast is best" articles. =)

It's about 15 minutes until we have to catch the shuttle for our evening activities (a Carrie Underwood concert at the Grand Old Opry, baby!), can't wait to see what new secrets and insider tips we uncover. (Let's hope the peeping tom doesn't reveal too much, lol!)

-Tessa

p.s. The photo is us dining out last night with the Boston and New Hampshire crew.

Nashville, Live!

It's Thursday afternoon and Shelley, our editorial director, and I are in Nashville, TN for the annual Parenting Publications of America (PPA) conference. In fact, I'm blogging LIVE right now (in front of a room full of other magazine gurus, can you say "pressure," LOL) as part of a demonstration for a presentation Shelley's giving on what else, The Top 9 Reasons to Blog.

We'll be blogging throughout the weekend in Nashville, so be sure to check back with us and check often!

-Tessa

Clean Up Your Act

Spring-cleaning is in full swing, and we at DallasChild know how to do it right. For the last 3-4 weeks, we’ve had new carpet installed; attempted and subsequently botched a paint job (we’re writers, not painters!); corrected the damage with a professional paint job; and trashed years-worth of old magazines, papers and general junk. Our “new” digs are a lot calmer, definitely a lot cleaner, and free from clutter. Well, all except for Lauren’s desk and mine.

The Plano Area Mothers of Multiples have the same idea. They will hold their annual spring garage sale March 24, from 8am to noon at Fairview Farms in Plano.

Admission is $1, and inside promises to be full of children’s clothes, toys and accessories. Visit PAMOM's website for a map and details. Hey, everyone needs to clean house, and everyone loves a good find!

In other news, Shelley and Tessa arrived in Nashville today for the annual Parenting Publications of America convention. They'll be blogging live from the convention to let us all know what's new in the parenting publishing industry (and all the awards they've scooped up!) Don't worry, Lauren and I are holding down the editorial fort until they return :)

-Liz

In Case You Missed It

Sunday morning I had the wonderful (although I must admit, nerve-wracking) opportunity to chat with the co-hosts of the radio show Your Child’s Health: Dr. Sue Hubbard, a Dallas-based pediatrician, and Dina Conte Schulz, a news and entertainment wiz (the three of us are pictured at left). Among dispensing several family-friendly tips I also dished about all the details relating to the DallasChild Camp and Summer Adventure Fair taking place this Saturday at the Shops at Willow Bend in Plano from 10am-3pm.

If you were still sawing logs, prepping for a family-style Oscar party, attending a worship service or noshing on brunch and happened to miss the camp-filled shout you can catch it online. Beginning tomorrow, the show’s audio archive will be posted on the 103.7 Lite FM Web site.

But whether you check out the show, or just take my word for it that I said “umm” way too many times, make sure you get the kiddos set for summer by swinging by the camp fair on Saturday, we’ll be looking for you!

-Tessa

Can You Hear Me Now?

We may still be deep in the heart of winter, but it's already time to start thinking summer, as in camp. Want to know how to find a great program for your child? Or what the latest trend in camp culture is? Tune in this Sunday morning from 7:30-8:30 (February 25) to 103.7 Lite Fm: Your Child's Health. In the 8 o' clock hour I'll be making my radio debut and dishing on all the camp details every mom and dad needs to know before signing on the dotted line.

"Talk" to you soon!
-Tessa

Tummy Time

Last spring we reported on plagiocephaly, a flattening of a baby’s head, which, if left untreated, can have lasting repercussions, including developmental delays, vision impairment and misalignment of facial features. The condition affects about 20 percent of tots born each year and impacts even more babies after spending too much time on their backs. While early treatment and intervention for those born with plagiocephaly is paramount (think the tiny helmets you see on little ones which help to guide proper head growth), keeping it from occurring is of equal importance.

Next Tuesday (Feb 27), Star Cranial Center of Excellence in Dallas will be hosting a Tummy Time workshop, which will teach parents different activities to do with their baby that will help prevent plagiocephaly and benefit his/her physical development, as well as provide ample cuddle time opportunities. The workshop will be led by certified orthotist and registered occupational therapist, Dulcey Lima, who is published and speaks internationally on plagiocephaly and tummy-time techniques. She is the Clinical Education Manager for Orthomerica, the world's largest manufacturer of cranial remolding headbands.

The workshop will be held from 7-8:30pm at the Chase Building, 6300 Harry Hines Blvd., 6th floor, Dallas and is available free of charge to the first 20 adults and their babies up to 6 months old. If you’re interested, pre-register by calling 214/350-8848 or by e-mailing emartinez@starcranialcenter.com.

-Tessa

Food For Thought

A prominent North Texas help agency received some good news this week. The Crystal Charity Ball has named the North Texas Food Bank one of the beneficiaries of its 2007 fundraising campaign. Crystal Charity has raised money for Dallas county children’s charities since the 1950s, and this year’s efforts ($645,000 promised) will help the Food Bank fund its Food 4 Kids program, a.k.a. the backpack program.

The program provides kids from 60 Dallas-area schools with a pack filled with kid-friendly, nutritious snacks every Friday afternoon. The thought of going hungry over a weekend is horrifying, but real, and the food bank expects the gift to help expand its program from 300 children to 1,500.

Crystal Charity's track record ($72 million raised since its inception) leaves no doubt that they'll reach their 2007 goal. And hey, even if you can't purchase a table at the ball in December, you can still check out both organizations' websites for ways you can contribute or get involved.

-Liz

Clothes Encounters

In the January issues of DallasChild and FortWorthChild, I wrote about my quest to revamp my image with a wardrobe makeover (Closet Confidential). I couldn’t have imagined the response. Not only have I received tons of inquiries from friends and strangers wanting to know how it’s going; Nancy Klompus (the stylist I chose) has also had her phone ringing off the hook with moms who are desperate for clothes encounters of their own kind.

Well, I can tell you so far it has been a blast and a wise investment. First and foremost, it was an exercise in subtraction, not addition. I donated more than 10 bags of clothing — items that, as Nancy says, we needed to “let go.” My favorite pieces could finally breathe — everything was now smashing, not smashed, and I could actually see what I had. Nancy then gave new life to several “orphans” in my closet by rounding out my self-described “funky chic” look with some fantastic basic and signature – build-a-wardrobe-around-them —pieces (using a budget I gave her) ... think great layering tops, pants, wrap dress (simlar to the one pictured), statement earrings, hose, boots, clogs – oh, and a killer Billy Reid rockstar-mama leather skirt. Best of all, everything we bought was on sale!

When I wake up in the morning, dressing is fun again; and, even if I don’t wear a “Nancy” outfit (she styles head-to-toe looks from your closet and photographs them for reference in a handy album), I use the techniques she taught me to create a pulled-together look that suits my lifestyle.

Now you can learn her trade secrets too. Because we discovered that our readers are clamoring for fashion makeover tips, we are launching a new monthly column in the magazine, starting with the March issue, entitled “Chic or Eek” (named after the original blog on this topic). In it Nancy will answer a burning fashion question she is hearing consistently from her mommy clients (or one that you send in). She’ll tell us what not to wear, and, most importantly, what is going to make us look fabulous and thin, keeping wardrobe malfunctions to a minimum.

If you have a question for Nancy, shoot us an email now. --shelley

The Grand (f.i.g.) Finale

If you don’t know what the f.i.g. is (no, not the fruit), you need to add it to your style lexicon asap. The f.i.g. (aka Fashion Industry Gallery) is having their fabulous finale sample sale (of all sizes) this weekend. For two days only, stores such as L.Bartlett, Forty Five Ten, and Linus Lounge, are setting up shop at the f.i.g. and giving discounts of 75%. Normally, the f.i.g. is open to “the industry” only, but this weekend, they open the doors to the fashion conscious consumers at large. Just one piece of advice…get their early because the good goods go in a flash!

f.i.g. Finale Sample Sale Need-to-Know Info:
• When: Fri Feb 16 12p – 7p
Sat Feb 17 10a – 4p
• Admission: $12
• Cash ONLY
• Where:
f.i.g.
1807 Ross Ave, Dallas 75201
214/748-4FIG (4344)
• Go to the f.i.g. website to purchase VIP tickets and for more info

See you there!

Lauren

Walk It Out

When my roommate convinced me to go walking with her last weekend, I thought it would be a walk in the park. Four miles later, the novelty had worn off. I guess we were taking it easy (an impressive 16-minute mile), but it felt like a marathon. OK, four miles of strolling, gossiping and making fun of a guy on a unicycle is not as grueling as some people’s daily regimens, and I completely understand that.

The Wheat Foods Council and See Mommy Run know that moms (“The Everyday Athletes”) spend a lot more time than that on their feet. That’s why they’re sponsoring a nationwide run/walk this spring in hopes of setting a world record.

Registration begins March 1 on www.wheatfoods.org when the site becomes active. Participants will be given pedometer after registering to track their steps leading up to the event on May 19, at which point you can enter your total number of steps to determine whether a record has been set. And, See Mommy Run makes it easy to find a running/walking buddy. Just log on and register, and you’ll find dozens of local groups who would love to have you join them.

Not a bad reason to buy some shiny, new running shoes, I say!

-Liz

Art Appreciation 101

Art has a power over some people that cannot be replicated. Its effect so strong that it can bring out every human emotion in a person – fear, sadness, anguish, happiness, laughter, etc. There are numerous reports written on the positive mental learning effects art has on children. In my “artistic” experience, creativity, personal expression and appreciation for the discipline are three of the most lasting gifts instilled by simply learning about and creating art. Not everyone can do art, but anyone can appreciate it.

Last night, the Dallas Museum of Art hosted a cocktail reception and panel discussion with three of the families that made the DMA’s newest exhibit happen: the Hoffmans, the Rachofskys and the Roses. The enormously generous gift of their personal collections to the museum is believed to be the first of its kind in the United States – a decision they haven’t looked back on. These art aficionados divulged to their audience their desire to share their love of art through the donations to the museum. None major artists themselves, the three families developed such a great love and appreciation for the discipline, that they intend to share it with as many people as possible – a great gift to the City of Dallas, and art-admirers around the world.

On that note, look for my upcoming March KidStyle, appropriately set in the art theme. I too am an art-lover, and cannot stress how important it is for children to develop a love of art, even if its only appreciation and not creation. It not only fosters mind development, but also shows them culture, creativity and imagination among many many other benefits.

(Pictured is my most favorite work from the exibit – or one very similar – Untitled, 1977, by Willem de Kooning)

Lauren

Just Call Me Grams …

I have commissioned a dear friend of mine to paint a 3-piece canvas mural to hang above “Peanut’s” crib and in it I am going to include the names of all of the soon-to-be grandparents (and since my husband and I are both children of divorce, there are several monikers to be added). Here’s the tricky part, no one knows what they want to be called. My mom chose, after much consideration, to be dubbed “Mimi.” My dad is following in his dad’s footsteps as “Grandad” and his wife is going to be “Noni,” but everyone else is at a loss (that leaves four unnamed g’parents). =)

Being new to the parenting arena, I’m curious how other families have tackled this subject. Do parents typically choose, as my dad did, to go by what their parents did? Do you Google “names for grandparents” in hope of inspiration? Do you go unnamed until the little one begins muttering first words and go with the one that sticks? As I have several in-laws scratching their heads over this one, I’d love to receive any advice you may have.

“We will never know the love of our parents for us till we have become parents.” — Henry Ward Beecher

-Tessa

Cross Your Heart

February is well underway, but even though it’s a short month, there’s still more to it than hearts and flowers (just don’t tell the adorable couple in Lauren’s picture 3 blogs down!)

Because it’s National Heart Month, Stonebriar Centre is turning its attention to matters of the heart as well with The Heart Truth—a month-long campaign against women’s heart disease.

All month long, Stonebriar invites you to stop by customer service to pick up a free red dress pin (the national symbol for women’s heart disease awareness, thanks to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute) as a reminder to keep your heart healthy and spread the word. Also, swing by on a Saturday and collect a goodie bag (pictured), containing a pin, health info and other treats.

While we’re on the subject, don’t forget Medical City’s Ask A Specialist event this Saturday at White Rock Lake (see my earlier blog for info).

-Liz

A MOMentous Month

Roses are red, violets are blue … yadda, yadda. We all know February is about the love stuff, but in this month’s issue (on stands now) we also pay tribute to the one thing that makes most women’s heart skip a beat (no, not chocolate): Motherhood.

We delve into the finicky world of playground politics and discuss whether age has any bearing on which moms we befriend. Then, in a stunning portrait (that can’t be missed), the beauty of birth is captured in a heartwarming black-and-white photo essay.

Want more mommy moments? We profile KERA’s host of Think, Krys Boyd, in The Mom Next Door, who shares with us what it’s like raising two young children following the unexpected passing of her husband. Local mom Kim Creel gives us a behind-the-scenes look at life with 3-year-old twins and an infant in her Mommy Diary and in the Take Note section I finally announce the sex of “peanut!”

Pick up a copy of the magazine, grab your heart-shaped box of chocolates and curl up in your favorite corner of the couch to celebrate life's sweetest thing.

much love~
tessa

A Political Passion for PTA

The week of February 19 has officially been designated as PTA Advocacy week, which means all of you moms and dads need to strike while the iron’s hot to get your voices heard. So whom should you speak to? Try federal lawmakers who work in area state and district offices, your local school board, county commissioners and other local officials who have your child’s best interests at heart.

The National PTA also offers the following suggestions to get the advocacy ball rolling:

• Provide contact information to your members for your elected officials at all levels. Encourage members to contact one official during this designated week.
  
• Schedule a meeting with your U.S. Congressman or Senator to discuss the National PTA priorities.
  
• Invite one of your elected officials to be the guest speaker at your PTA meeting.

For more useful tools, visit http://www.pta.org/advocacy/.

For inspiration, consider these famous quotes:

• "Do what you can, with what you have, where you are." - Theodore Roosevelt, 26th U.S. President
  
• "The great aim of education is not knowledge but action." - Herbert Spencer, English philosopher

-Tessa

Box it up...

To many busy parents, Valentine’s Day is just another day. There’s no time for a special reservation for you and your husband at your favorite restaurant. In fact, you’re lucky if you even have dinner between basketball practices and ballet classes. You’re more inclined to celebrate by going to sleep as soon as the extra-curricular activities end, than a decadent and romantic night on the town.

Every couple (no matter how busy) still needs a little romance, even if it’s dessert in a box…and I mean that in the classiest of ways. Tart, my favorite bakery in Dallas, offers Valentines “Desserts in a Box,” and let me tell you, they won’t disappoint if they’re anything like the rest of their dessert repertoire. In fact, I discovered these treats-for-two last Friday as I was picking up literally the best carrot cake I’ve ever had (and I’m usually not a fan of carrot cake). All the components of a fabulous and delightful dessert are included – all you have to do is take it out of the box (a must for ambiance), arrange on a plate, and share with your Valentine.

Even if it’s midnight before the two of you are alone in a quiet house, there’s nothing better than sharing sweets (like sinfully "Sweet Raviloi") with your sweetheart on the day made for lovers (of desserts that is!). The orders are pouring in, so get yours in on the double!

Tart
5219 W. Lovers Lane, Dallas
469.335.8919

Cheers,
Lauren

Big Breaking News

Today, Texas becomes the first state to require the newly available cervical cancer vaccine, Gardasil, for school girls.

Details are not available yet, but Governor Perry is expected to make a statement this afternoon about the new legislation and when it will take effect.

The deal supposedly came about thanks to the Governor's relationship with a Merck (Gardasil's maker) lobbyist who is his former chief-of-staff.

This legislation will affect so many girls, and it's heartening to see Texas leading the way.

Just keeping you posted...have a great weekend.
-liz

Marsupial Madness

In the midst of a mile-long (and not-getting any shorter) to-do list, I received an intriguing press release from Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch. They're expecting a little bundle of kangaroo joy to arrive soon, and they want your child to name it.

You only have until Friday (Feb. 2) to enter your nomination, so think fast! Email your nomination for the name, your name, child's name and age to sharkarosa@sharkarosa.com

The winner will be invited out to the ranch to play with and bottle feed the little joey, which, as you can tell from my picture, is every bit as fun as it sounds!

Now, back to the magazine madness...

-Liz

Monkey See...Monkey do

One of the many things I love about being a “creative” at the office is the fact that “creatives” are allowed to be more casual and expressive with their clothing than their client-calling ad rep and admin counterparts. This may mean jeans and a beefy-t for some, or leggings and layered tees from the likes of Splendid, Vince or James Perse for others. Occasionally I’ll feel the need to dress up a bit, but most days, I’m more than content to be in a relaxed and “creative” state of clothing.

The great thing about this type of wardrobe is that it’s mama-friendly, and not to mention COMFORTABLE. Stay-at-home moms can wear it while tracking down their tottering toddler for naptime, and working moms can wear it to basketball games and practices on the weekends. It’s a versatile alternative to track-suits and windbreakers for women of many ages and walks of life.

Little girls often look up to their mommies and want to be just like them – in everything. I’m not an advocate of mommy-daughter dressing, but these days the “big girl” designers are offering a teeny version for little ones that is more endearing than embarrassing. Splendid now has a child line available at Neiman Marcus NorthPark, with designs and styles just as cute as their big girl line. In fact, our FortWorthChild covergirl, sported a Splendid Littles long-sleeve tee with a Seven Jeans skirt on the cover of our January 07 issue.

Still comfortable and girly, these mini-versions of mama’s clothes allow girls to still be girls without the frilly dresses and ruffled socks to go under those patent leather Mary Janes. I still don’t advocate matchy-matchy dressing, but with the vast array of choices on both sides of the size chart, there’s not even a temptation.

Lauren

No Spanks?

A California politician is planning to introduce a bill this week that would make it illegal for parents to spank their children who are under age 4. If passed, California would be the first state to make swatting a small child a crime.

What do you think? Would you support such a bill in Texas? Let me know your thoughts by participating in our online poll at www.dallaschild.com or www.fortworthchild.com.
Want to say more? Send me an e-mail at senior.editor@dallaschild.com.
~tessa

The “Write” Resolution

OK, OK, it’s the end of January and I know we’re all bored with the whole concept of New Year’s resolutions. But, after a heart-to-heart chat with my mom the other day, I just had to share one more tidbit.

In August, I posted an entry titled “Forever Alma,” which detailed my desire to find some way to connect with my grandma (Alma) who is battling dementia (her diagnosis has since been changed to Alzheimer’s). I decided to write to her each week. I was filled with the naive notion that I could somehow reach through the dense fog that now clouds her memory and grab hold of the wonderful woman I once knew.

My idealistic notion may not have been so far after all.

My mom visited my grandparents over the holidays and out of a string of Christmas cards, my grandma pointed to one and said, “That’s from Tessa, she writes to me all the time.”

I know she doesn’t know me anymore, but somehow she knows that I write to her, that I care and that means more to me than anything else possibly could.

There is power in writing to the ones we love. Notes in our children’s lunchboxes, stickies on the bathroom mirror for our spouse, lengthy letters to long-lost friends … taking the time to jot a quick thought to say you care can bring about amazing things.

So, whom will you write to today?

much love~
tessa

P.s. I’ve already started penning notes to my unborn baby and I get teary eyed each time I read the words. My first letter is appearing in our February issue, be sure to pick one up on stands the first of next month.

Listen To Your Heart

It's almost that time again- Time for Medical City's monthly "Ask A Specialist" community health event, Saturday, Feb. 10 from 8-11 a.m. at White Rock Lake.

This month's event will feature heart health information and is scheduled strategically to coincide with National Heart Month. "Ask A Specialist" events are intedned to bring good, reliable medical info out into the community and provide an informal forum for getting your health questions answered without an appointment.

Medical City Heart not only has a renowned heart transplant program, but also was recently honored for excellence in diagnosing and treating heart patients.

Stop by Feb. 10 (south side of west Lawther Drive), and here's to your heart!
-Liz

Girlfriend Knows Her Shoes

OK, we all know the sales are hopping right now. What better time to break from your old standbys and check out one of those haunts you’ve read (and subsequently dreamt) about — you know the ones that fashionistas prefer to keep to themselves. Enter Linus Lounge, Kristen Radakovich’s newly opened Uptown ode to the shoe aficionado. Designed in the manner of some of the world’s most famous shoe designers – Jimmy Choo and Manolo Blahnik – the cozy-chic space (2724 Routh St., 214/965-0180) doubles as both showroom and residence for Radakovich and her Brit-transplanted husband.

You’re not going to see these gorgeous shoes – really, works of art – anywhere else in town. In fact, the European shoe lines are making their first-ever Dallas debut. With an impeccable, uncommon eye for design, this former pastry chef-turned-fashion queen hand-selects each pair by designers such as Barbara Bui, Scorah Pattullo and Nicolas Kirkwood. Not to mention, Kristen serves a mean dish of mixed nuts (and maybe even wine), while you relax and shop with your mommy friends – this is definitely a girlfriend outing - (oh, and those sky-high heels sound so fabulous on the lounge's hardwood floors - you'll just HAVE to have them, practical or not!).

And, it’s sale time, now through Jan. 27. So, plan on paying 20 percent below to wholesale cost (we’re talking, in some cases, about scoring the most fashion-forward, even avant garde, shoes for Nordies’ prices).

Go (run) girl. --shelley

Mommy of the year award!

OK, true confessions.

This morning I roused the brood as normal, got myself dressed (in a rather snazzy outfit I might add since I was supposed to meet someone for a real. live. grown-up. lunch), and everyone out the door just slightly behind schedule. My sons kept asking to go out and "play in the snow." Did it dawn on me to check the TV/Internet or even my phone messages to see if the weather would trigger school closings (we're talking SNOW in Dallas people)? Nope, I resorted to my let's-power-through-this Midwestern mentality and we hit the streets. Which were a) empty and b) slippery. Still it took me half the ride to consider that maybe, just maybe, something was up. I called the school. No answer. I called another mother who gave me the news (while she tried not to snicker): no school. I had to tell the boys "just kidding - we're really not going to school today." They were jubilant. I felt defeated.

Has this ever happened to anyone else (oh, please say yes).--shelley

Cold hands, Warm heart

When I lived in Missouri, we had plenty of snow. And ice. And cold. But, it never seemed to be enough to force the school and road closures that I felt were more than warranted. So, I feel Mother Nature still owes me a snow day.

Personally, I would sleep and watch bad daytime TV all day. But, I suspect that’s not an option with little ones at home due to inclement weather. So what’s a mother to do?

TV is still an option, but instead of repetitive cartoons, or worse, anything on E!, how about a classic movie marathon instead? What better time to expose the kids to the joys of Julie Andrews than on a day when you have them captive! The Sound of Music and Mary Poppins should take you through naptime, at least.

The clever Channel 8 Daybreak crew mentioned putting the kids to some pre-spring cleaning this morning, too. As Mary Poppins would say, “To every job that must be done, there is an element of fun.”

And then, there are others who get crafty when the going gets chilly. Making a pot of hot chocolate and scrapbooking, finger painting or cookie baking could be positively heartwarming on a day like today.

--Liz

Know Sudden Movements

It happened. It finally happened. After all of the years (and tears) of trying to conceive, after all of the months of waiting during pregnancy, after all of the “I’m never going to feel it” moments, it just happened — literally.

I was sitting at my desk this morning, editing the events calendar for the February issue and I felt the strangest sensation shoot across my still yet-to-bulge belly. And then it happened again. And again. It wasn’t quite like the butterflies I was expecting, nor was it the knock you off your seat punch to the rib. It was just this kind of soft “pow, pow, pow” rumble, followed by another “pow.”

Peanut moved!

And my heart stood still.

much love~
tessa

Wanna Be a Footballer, Shot-Caller?

Superstar David Beckham announced today that he’ll play Major League Soccer for the L.A. Galaxy for the next five years…and $250 million. This football pro was coached by his father as a child, signed something called “schoolboy forms” at 14 to play for his future pro team, and signed his first pro contract at 17. That’s a lot of pressure for a kid. The kid is 31 now, and it might still be a lot of pressure, as he’s widely thought to be past his prime. At least he still has his looks.

Starting kids early in sports is nothing too startling, but the intensity of some athletic programs is. If you’re involved in youth sports, as a parent or a coach, I want to hear from you! Are the stakes too high in youth sports? What do you look for in a coach? Who calls the shots on your children’s teams? I hope you’ll share your stories with me.

Email me at assoc.editor@dallaschild.com

thanks!
-Liz

A Fitting Resolution

Let’s talk about your new year’s resolutions. Does “making a difference” turn up on the list? If so, check out this new Dallas nonprofit organization dedicated to eradicating childhood obesity through fitness education. Fit-for-Me was founded by Don-Miguel (pictured), who has more than 16 years experience in fitness & wellness (he’s a former high-profile East Coast trainer who has worked out athletes such as Denise Austin (who pretty much rocks if you've ever checked out her exercise programs).

There are a few ways you can help:

*Volunteer (lots of opportunities from serving as a board member to planning special events - in fact, Ashley Wolf, DallasChild’s pr/marketing guru and I have joined the team … we’re walking the talk, moms)

*Share your public speaking moxie at area schools (if you make your living in the fitness trade)

*Make a monetary or equipment donation

Even in sports-crazed Dallas, childhood obesity rates are rising (it’s actually become a national pandemic). Fit-for-Me hopes to teach every child that fitness & wellness should be as much a part of the daily routine as brushing teeth! Now that's a resolve fit for me. --shelley

What Month Is It Anyway? (Don't Ask Us)

Christmas was only two weeks ago, but we’re already knee-deep into writing the March issue. Although, technically we’re still fiddling with February, since it’s in the “production” phase (meaning our superstar art director Laura Oertling is holed up in her office, official pixie wand in hand, waving artistic splendor into our stories). We’re always anxious to give “birth” to our February edition since it’s all about maternity. As always, we give you a modern, fresh take on parenting: Tessa Falk goes deep into playground politics to reveal the “real” mommy wars (hint: it’s not just about working/stay-at-home turf lines). Also, we’ll unveil a provocative photo essay contrasting two very different, yet decidedly modern, modes of birthing: C-section and natural childbirth. Photographer Jennifer Weintraub lets the faces tell the stories in this rare glimpse into a very private moment. And, just for fun, you won’t want to miss Liz’s heartening 5 things to do before and after the 14th.

I’ll save March for another entry. But, suffice it to say that if your child plays sports, you’re in for a must-read.

BTW, have you read your January issue, yet? (It is January still, right?!?) Did you love the special treat of seeing North Texas Teens on the pages of DallasChild? Tell us what you think! --shelley

Tattooed at Two?!

That’s what I thought at first, but not to worry…these are for educational purposes. Still hesitating? Let me explain. Two moms from California (one a graphic designer, the other a teacher), put their heads together and came up with Tattoos for Tots, temporary tattoos that teach tots the names of the animals on the farm or the vegetables you put on their plate (plus much more). Each tattoo has the name of the object written on it, so your little tyke can learn the word as well as the picture. Unlike the real things, these tats come with rave reviews from the parents of these inked angels.

Not the first method that comes to mind for teaching you’re kids…but hey, it’s so avant garde, it just may work!

Lauren

Take a Look; It's in a Book...

“Mister Magnolia has only one boot…Mister Magnolia goes for a scoot…he has an old trumpet that goes rooty-toot…”

This is what I’ve retained of the first book I remember loving—Mister Magnolia, written and illustrated by Quentin Blake. Mr. Mag certainly wasn’t my first book, but it was so well loved, that I think I wore it out. (And only recently replaced by tracking down a reprint from overseas—yes, it’s that good.)

“Do you remember the magic of your first book?” is the question asked by FirstBook, a non-profit created in 1992 to instill this same nostalgia for early literacy in low-income children.

FirstBook has made its mission to “transform the quality of preschool and after school programs” by providing new books to children who don’t know the luxury and excitement of leaving Barnes & Noble with a bagful of pristine, un-cracked books.

They’ve given away more than 40 million books in the last 15 years, and their website does a great job of showing the different ways you can get involved in the project. For example, Book Relief is a project to donate books to the Gulf Coast to replace what Katrina and Rita took away. And be sure to visit The Literacy Site, where every click of your mouse helps fund books for kids.

Maybe even the magical Mister Magnolia.

-Liz

From Israel...With Love

I wouldn’t call Israel a major player in the exportation of children’s toys. Nor would I necessarily think to order a toy from there…we have plenty to choose from in our own neighborhood. But these classic hand-made wooden toys for young tots are too cute to pass up. Made by special needs adults in Israel at a non-profit organization called Kishorit, each toy is made with care…and love. All their wooden toys are painted in the prettiest of pastels…perfect for an Easter gift, or just to have.

Visit their website, pasteltoys.com, for online shopping, and to get the full story on these one-of-a-kind sensations…all the way from Israel.

Lauren

...And to All a Good Night.

Only two more shopping days until Christmas, and if you’re still searching for the perfect gifts, you can’t say we didn’t offer a few suggestions over the past few weeks!

The next time you hear from us, we’ll have a jam-packed January issue out on the stands, our first of 2007. In it, you can look forward to features on childcare and gifted education, as well as a special teen supplement. While you’re enjoying January, though, our minds are almost in March. We just like to keep one step ahead of you that way!

We’re taking a day or two off--to regroup, to relax and to celebrate, but we’ll be back shortly, and we’ve got big plans for ’07.

Enjoy your holidays
-Liz

All Aboard!

I love Dallas during the holidays. Where else can you experience a Christmas tradition like the Grapevine Vintage Railroad's "North Pole Express." We caught the 10:30 a.m. train this past Saturday with the boys (pictured). Little ones are encouraged to wear their jammies (parents too!) a la the real "Polar Express" and the mood is festive with sing-alongs and a surprise visit through the coaches by Old St. Nick. Tickets for the final weekend (this Friday and Saturday) are sold out, but often extra seats are released right before departure — so for train lovers it's worth a shot (plus there's free entertainment in the form of an ornament factory, Santa visits with photos, holiday model train layout and live entertainment at the "North Pole Fun Park" - aka Cotton Belt Depot in Grapevine).

And, if you're looking for something to do with the kids after Christmas, load up the fam for a round-trip train ride to the Fort Worth Stockyards Station Dec. 26-31. Trains depart daily from Grapevine at 1 p.m. and return at 6 p.m; or depart the Stockyards at 3:30 p.m. for the Trinity River Run to 8th Avenue and return at 4:30 p.m. For more info and prices, check out the Grapevine Vintage Railroad. --shelley

Age Games: Your Comments Wanted!

I recently sat down with our editorial director, Shelley, in preparation for an article I’m working on for the February issue regarding older versus younger moms. She asked me to think about the differences that she and I would experience as mothers each raising similar-age children (I have one on the way and she has three under 5) in respect to our ages (we differ by about 10 years). As a younger mom, will I be more fun-loving? As an older mom, will she be more patient? Will either of us become jealous of our stations in life in regard to parenting?

These questions really got me thinking and I posed these, and several others, to members of our readers’ panel (if you’d like to join, just shoot me an e-mail) to see what they thought and now I’m asking you. Have you ever felt ostracized by a group of older or younger moms? Do you feel like you “don’t fit in” because of your age? If you’re a younger or older mom, in a nutshell, how do you view the other mommy group?

I’m looking for moms who aren’t afraid to speak their minds! =) E-mail me at senior.editor@dallaschild.com. All comments may be used in the feature, so please include your full name, city in which you live, age now, age at which you became a mom and number of kiddos in your response.

I look forward to hearing from you shortly!
~tessa

Chic or Eek? Is Your Closet Calling for Help?

If you are a mom anything like me, your closet could best be described as casual meets corporate meets maternity meets carpool (in a variety of sizes to suit all life phases). I love to shop. I have many receipts to prove it {insert husband cringing}. I enjoy fashion and pour through women’s magazines for ideas. I have a clue. The one thing I don’t have much of is time. And, that’s what it takes to pull together a smashing wardrobe: time.

Or Nancy.

Who is this magic makeover marvel? Without giving away too many details (you’ll have to read the January issue of DallasChild), Nancy Klompus is the secret-weapon to many a well-dressed mom in the Metroplex. With more than 25 years of designer fashion experience (think Neimans, Saks and Barneys) under her belt, she works as a personal-style consultant, whipping wardrobes into shape with her impeccable eye for style. Nancy takes the best of what you have, organizes it, reinvents it and builds upon it.

I was brave enough to invite her into my closet {yes, nervously so, but you have to admit there is a problem before you can make improvements!}. Find out what I learned (tips you can steal, too) and discover why the right personal shopper might actually help save you money! --shelley

ps ... Who wants to vote? Is that my closet pictured above? Is it Tessa's? Or random Internet photo that Liz dug up? You tell us.

Sugar & Spice for Dallas families

Fresh from feeding families at Thanksgiving, the North Texas Food Bank is hosting a special event this Friday for families at Dobie Elementary in Richardson.

Food Bank chef, Kyra Effren, will host a gingerbread house party for graduates of the six-week Operation Frontline program. Operation Frontline is offered through Dobie’s Even Start program and teaches Spanish-speaking families how to make healthy and “budget-wise” food choices through hands-on classes.

Effren will assemble the houses and let the families decorate with all sorts of candy décor.

Sounds like fun and a great way to give these families something sweet for the holidays.

-Liz

Just Two Weeks Left to Shop...

On the heels of Shelley’s shopping list (see “A Few of My Favorite Things” entry) and Liz’s shopping blitz taking place this weekend (check out “Time to Shop”), I decided it was time to dish on all the goodies I’ve been hording in my holiday hat, as well. Enjoy!

* If you want to make the holidays “blingy” and bright, gift a little one (newborn to age 6) with Swarovski-crystal or nailhead-embellished treats from u*b*baby. The angel onesie (with crystal-outlined wings on the back) is my absolute favorite!

*To make someone’s home (and heart) all aglow, check out the customized creations from Light Affection. Just submit a favorite photo and the company will turn it into an amazing standing light or night light. (I have one of these in my office and it’s beautiful!)

* For those on your shopping list who like to be in-step with celeb life (apparently Eva Longoria and Jessica Simpson, among others are loving this line), then check out gear from Bejeweled. I have my eye on the “Royal Highness” tee — too cute. Shop at www.fashionchateau.com or www.angelarunway.com.

*Want to give the gift of art this season? Swing by the
Mary Jack Studios’s Web site to see the wonderful, whimsical creations designed to inspire all little minds.

*Nothing says lovin' like something from the oven, but how about helping a Dallas-area charity at the same time? The Creating Comfort cook book, which benefits the Genesis Women's shelter, is chock full of tasty recipes for appetizers, main dishes and desserts. Shop at www.genesisshelter.org.

*For the new mom (or about to become one) on your list, visit LillaBoo. This stylish site offers fashion-forward baby basics. Think geometric-print bibs, blankies and bags — a great alternative to the more humdrum offerings that tend to flood the market.

* Want a truly inspirational gift for that woman in your life that reminds you to walk on faith (thanks mom!)? Check out Dallas-based company Christian Couture. ShaeLyn Werner’s collection (the creator) is something to behold. Bonus? For those of us with a baby bump, there’s also a maternity line that boasts sayings like “Blessed Belly” and “Heavenly Sent.”

*And finally, shield against the winter chill with a cozy fleece blanket from Affirmagy. These cuddly wraps boast uplifting affirmations, covering subjects like motherhood, love and serenity.

Happy hunting!
much love~
tessa

Sneak Peeks...

Maybe it’s still December to you, but for us here at the magazine, December has come and gone – it’s time for the new year! For the covers of January’s DallasChild and FortWorthChild, we chose two fiery (and fun) red-heads by the names of Caitlin (DC - bottom picture) and Kelsie (FWC - top picture). The two girls didn’t seem upset that they were missing school to be “models,” dressing up in the “princess skirt” and other outfits selected for them. Here are sneak peeks of the little firecrackers from their cover search test shots from this past fall.

Thanks to Caitlin, Kelsie and their moms for such great and entertaining shoots this morning!

Lauren

Time to shop!

If you survived Black Friday, but still don’t have your holiday shopping finished, you are in luck. Our fair city is not short of shops, but if you’re still at a loss, do not miss the annual Holiday Market sponsored by The 500, Inc. at Dallas Market Hall.

Five dollars gets you into this 2-day shopping fest this Saturday (12/9) 10-6 and Sunday (12/10) from 11-5. You’ll find more than 200 vendors selling everything from gifts and clothes to jewelry and crafts.

The 500, Inc. is a non-profit, volunteer organization dedicated to the appreciation and preservation of the arts in Dallas for nearly 40 years, and also hosts the annual ARTFEST.

And, if all the shopping becomes too harried, we’ve stumbled upon this little gem called Christmas Eve: the Joy of Giving, by Lisa Sferlazza Johnson and Tucker Johnson. Eve is a charming little fairy who goes to help build toys at the North Pole, where she learns that quality is more important than quantity…especially come Christmas time.

Happy shopping!

-Liz

Help Your Neighbor

It takes years to build a home, and minutes to lose it...

Operation Homefront is asking for your help for an Arlington family. A fire in late November destroyed the Willows Apartments and left the Davenport family with nothing. Dad is in Iraq and mom is caring for kids ages 6, 2 and 2 months.

The Davenports desperately need clothes, and so will Dad when he returns next year. (Sizes 6, 4T, and ever-increasing infant sizes for the kids, and mom is a 14)

They will also needed are furniture, kitchen items and, of course, diapers!

Operation Homefront’s chapter president, Karla Ayala, suggests saving your shipping costs by donating money or gift cards (all money will be converted to gift cards for the family). “Gift cards can be purchased at banks that can be used anywhere and Wal-mart gift cards are good to because they would cover food, clothes, toys, etc,” she says.

Operation Homefront is a national, non-profit, created after 9/11/2001 to provide emergency assistance to U.S. troops and their families.

Visit Operation Homefront's Texas chapter for information on how to help.

Many thanks, and have a great weekend
-Liz

Oops! We Did It Again!

Fresh from the Dallas Bar Association's 23rd Annual Stephen Philbin Awards Luncheon (during which John Edwards was the keynote speaker), our star contributing reporter/writer, Lisa Poisso (looking radiant and stylish I might add), dropped by the office with the 2006 award for excellence in legal reporting in hand! This is the third major award given to Lisa's two part series: Overhauling Child Protective Services. Qualifies it as a must read, don't you think?
Happy weekend. --shelley