Wednesday December 8, 2010

 
Today in History
John Lennon, singer, guitarist, songwriter, and poet for the Beatles, was assassinated in New York City by Mark David Chapman in 1980.
National brownie day
http://www.kids-list.com/Blog.aspx?blog=253

SmartyPants All-in-One Gummy Vitamins
Created by local parents who wanted a great tasting(My Kids LOVE Them!), high quality vitamin for their kids. Pediatrician-approved SmartyPants combine
* multivitamin
* Omega 3 DHA & EPA
* 100% of vitamin D
Smartypants is lower in sugar (only 5g/serving), uses eco-friendly & organic ingredients, and tastes great. SmartyPants don’t stick to teeth (they are dentist-approved) and contain NO yucky High Fructose Corn Syrup, artificial flavors, or colors. Kids love SmartyPants (Grown-ups too)! Hurry: 50% off on first 50 orders! FREE SHIPPING & 100% Money back guarantee. Coupon Code: JENSLIST50.
http://deals.wearesmartypants.com/jenslist/

$35 for Two Tickets on Newport Landing’s Holiday Cruises
Just after Thanksgiving, Newport’s harbor transforms into a holiday extravaganza with hundreds of decorated homes, yachts and docks. And for five nights (Dec. 15-19), things get even more merry with the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, “one of the top 10 holiday happenings in the nation,” according to the New York Times. The Newport Beach Holiday Cruise makes a holiday gift everyone will love – no wrapping required! 
www.familyfinds.com/jenslist

True tales of two little dogs with big personalities and even bigger hearts!
Discover these delightful pups and their real-life adventures in Komick’s Brodie & The Yeti storybook collection. His whimsical writing is great for all ages! We have read the books and my boys loved both stories! The Tales of Two Little Dogs tells the story of how the two dogs came to be brothers and The Yeti Saves Coco Bunny shares the story of how The Yeti Saves Grandma’s Bunny named Coco. As a long time advocate of animal rescue and safety, Dennis Komick has a sincere sense of urgency to aid rescue agencies and dog adoption organizations. A portion of the proceeds from the Brodie and The Yeti products and books will forever be donated to help organizations working with this cause.  Currently these books can be found within a number of local animal hospitals and pet food markets as well as adoption groups.
www.brodieandtheyeti.com

“Admissions Assistance, Preschool through College”
It’s Never Too Early – An evening of Q & A with L.A. School Scout’s college counseling expert Sue Eiges Hansen
December 9th from 7:00-8:30p.m.
You may have heard that it’s impossible to get into a good college, that figuring out how to get into a good college is worse than applying to preschools, that no matter how many schools you apply to your chance of getting into a top-notch school is slim to none. College counseling expert Sue Eiges Hansen of L.A. School Scout™ helps separate myth from fact, and gives you tools to help you start planning now for a successful college admission. Space is limited – rsvp to college@LAschoolscout.com. L.A. School Scout helps families make informed and thoughtful choices about the schools that will best suit them. Their mission is to promote, encourage and applaud children’s enthusiasm for school and learning; take the mystery and anxiety out of the school finding process for parents; and provide families with comprehensive information on all of their educational choices.
Unitarian Universalist Community Church
1260 Eighteenth Street in Santa Monica, 90404
www.LAschoolscout.com

Amazing class (and birthday party place!)for your 3-6 yr old!
Your child will learn self confidence, focusing, listening & self control while developing large motor skills, balance & coordination. Little Ninjas Karate program, run by Sensei Linda Vogel, is your answer! Jen’s List Special – get a gift certificate worth $50 off your next birthday party in addition to the first month tuition free. It is a high energy fun filled program using positive re-enforcement to teach children Martial Arts. My 3 oldest boys are students and LOVE it! They even have a toddler room where younger siblings can play while older children take classes. The birthday parties are awesome too – We had our 4 year old twin boys birthday there last July and it was wonderful! EVERYONE that was there loved it, the kids had a blast and everything couldn’t have been more perfect! Run by Certified Black Belt Instructors, in the amazing 10,000 square ft. facility & entertainment including Karate, Gymnastics, Trampoline, Games, Rope Climbing, Rock Wall & Music Call (818) 719-0205 for more info or visit www.LittleNinjasKarate.com
21038 – A Victory Blvd. at Variel in Woodland Hills
Thank you, Jen Levinson

Free newborn information for new parents as well as the most frequently asked questions to pediatricians. 
www.newborncare101.com

Ascension Lutheran Church and School Holiday Boutique
From 11:30am to 4:30pm on Thurs. December 9th and Fri. December 10th
The event will feature quality local vendors selling unique items including jewelry, candles, clothing, home decor, kitchen accessories, handmade children’s items, and much more! Proceeds will benefit Ascension Lutheran Church and School which offers infant care and educates children from Preschool and Kindergarten through 8th grade. For more information, email Lorin Paul at something.gray@yahoo.com.
1600 E. Hillcrest Dr. in Thousand Oaks

Twirls and Twigs Friends and Family sample sale!
Friday, December 10th from 9am-12pm
Saturday, December 11th from 9am-12pm
Girls and boys clothing infant to size 7/8 at 70% off!
Adorable holiday dresses and great boys shirts and pants starting at $5.00.
8810 Zelzah Ave in Northridge, 91325

Capital Construction is a full service, family-owned company
It is their mission to improve people’s lives, and they do this by delivering exquisite workmanship with unparalleled customer care, on time and within budget. They pledge to do everything they can to make the process enjoyable for you! They care about their clients. View the website & VIDEO TESTIMONIAL to see what others say about working with them. They specialize in home remodels, kitchens, bathrooms and additions.
www.CapitalBuilds.com

HAIRCUT OR COLOR FOR CHARITY
Between now and December 16th, 100% of the proceeds of ALL haircuts and colors at Francesca’s Place will go directly towards the Canoga Park single mom (and her 3 children) that has Stage 4 breast cancer that has spread to her lungs, bones, and brain whose info was posted on Jens List on Saturday December 4th! Checks or Cash only and Francesca’s Place is by appointment only. All checks for the event can be made payable to “The Talbert Family Foundation” (with “Dana’s Fund” in the note section).  The Talbert Family Foundation is dedicated to providing direct financial support to local families with members suffering from catastrophic illnesses. www.talbertfamilyfoundation.org.
Call or email Francesca at 424-298-8731 or francesca425@gmail.com to book your appointment.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Los-Angeles-CA/Francescas-Place/
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=87328682426

Lucy Ann Personalized Jewelry
Specializing in creating unique keepsakes for the special people in your life, Lucy Ann offers a wide variety of personalized items – pendants, charms, key chains, spoons, bracelets and much more. From the birth of a child to the passing of a loved one, a Lucy Ann keepsake touches the heart and captures the memory. Free standard shipping with a $50.00 minimum purchase. Use Code: JENSLIST2010. Expires 12/31/10.
www.lucyann.com

The Kid Dictionary
Gives people long-needed words to help them adequately describe their kids. Here are a few Holiday KidDefinitions for you from The KidDictionary:(Watch the funny videos at www.TheKidDictionary.com for more!)
JINGLEBERRY (JING-uhl-behr-ee) n. : – a Christmas Carol or other holiday song whose lyrics have been changed to incorporate potty talk and other themes contrary to the season the songs were intended to celebrate.
SHIRTURBED (shurr-TERBD) adj.: Annoyed state of a child who just received an article of clothing as a present.
RAMPAPER (rahm-PAY-puhr) v.: To ferociously shred through the gift-wrap on a present with no regard for the festive design nor the time and care that went into wrapping it.
SAINTNICKTRONIZE (saynt-NICK-truh-nize) v.: To feign belief in Santa Claus with hopes of a bigger Christmas payload. (See: EASTERBLUFFING)

Tis the Season for Good Taste So Give Sleeper’s Magic Gourmet Spice Rubs!
Sleeper’s Magic Gourmet Spice Rubs are perfect for anyone who appreciates great flavor. These all natural spice rubs are hand-crafted in small artisan batches from the finest California herbs and spices. They are free of additives, preservatives, artificial flavors and colors and are gluten free! Currently available in two delicious blends—ORIGINAL™ which is a trio of California Peppers with Garlic and Onion to create a taste that is slightly hot, slightly sweet and a MAGICAL way to enhance the flavor of meat, seafood, poultry, vegetables-even Popcorn! And FOWL™ made from Sun-dried California Lemons and Savory Herbs and adds pure juicy MAGIC to any bird, most fish and even potatoes! Sleeper’s Magic Gourmet Spice Rubs are versatile enough to use for grilling, roasting, snacking or incorporating into a flavor-full dip or dressing! Visit their website and order their Spicy Gift Pack or stop by Bridgid Coulter Design in Santa Monica and pick up a few bags. Or order by phone at 310-614-6683 and get FREE delivery in LA area with any order over $20.
www.sleepersmagicrub.com

Los Angeles Online Mom Communities: Popular, But Post At Your Own Risk
http://thetwincoach.blogspot.com/2010/12/

Winter horse camp during winter break for children and teens
Ages five and up. Filled with educational and fun horse activities for every level of horsemanship. Ferrante Ranch is willing to offer $15.00 towards paper for every student that signs up for the winter horse.
7694 Bradley Road in Somis, 93066
805 386-4777
www.Ferranteranch.com

Technical Director/Production Manager Wanted Marymount High School Part-time
January 3, 2011-June 6, 2011 (Spring Break: 3/28-4/8)
Salary: $12, 350.00
Contact: Claire Hackett, Performing Arts Department at chackett@mhs-la.org or 310.472.1205 ext. 210
10643 Sunset Blvd. in Los Angeles, CA 90077
Responsibilities:  Co-curricular activities include:
Spring Musical:  January 3-March 25, 2011 Jazz Café:  February 23, 20100 Spring Arts Festival:  April 27, 2011 (Technical Rehearsal:  April 26) Dance Concert:  May 14, 2011 Additional Duties:
Oversee and maintain performing arts inventory and storage spaces Attend department and faculty meetings as necessary.

The secret of chicken stock nirvana
One Jen’s List member’s Polish grandmother and mother made chicken stock this way.  When done, she remembers her mother smiling while enjoying the goodness off the bones.
http://www.chow.com/digest/67738/the-secret-of-chicken-stock-nirvana/?tag=nl.e356

LAST MINUTE HANUKKAH TIPS!
Want to make your own crafty menorah? http://kveller.com/activities/Holidays/hanukkah-menorah-craft.shtml
Don’t want to mess up your kitchen frying latkes? http://kveller.com/activities/food/oven-fried-latkes.shtml
Can’t remember how to play dreidel? http://kveller.com/activities/Holidays/how-to-play-dreidel.shtml
Hanukkah music! Books! http://www.kveller.com/blog/activities/hanukkah-oh-hanukkah/

A song to counter bullying from The Rhymatist
Featuring Elsie Fisher (AKA Agnes from Despicable Me).
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iEws5Y3tzkM

Eat parsnips
History.  Nutrition.  Buying.  Storing.  Preparing.  1 idea: roast parsnip sticks (@20 min. at 325) and serve with seasoned sour cream or yogurt for dipping.  Kids love dipping.
http://www.eattheseasons.com/Archive/parsnips.htm

Come join MUSE School for a free learn by doing experience for parents and children on Sunday December 12th and Sunday January 23rd from 2:30-4:30pm Start & end times are solid.
Please RSVP to funday@museschool.org.
1717 Old Topanga Cyn. Road in Topanga, 90290
www.museelementary.org

The 2011 World Festival of Sacred Music-Los Angeles
Oct 1-16, 2011
They are inviting performing artists and venues including churches, synagogues, mosques, museums to submit their applications by January 10, 2011. The 2011 Festival will host 25 events over 16 days, and feature music, dance, – classical, traditional and contemporary – including special Opening and Closing ceremonies. This intercultural, interfaith, interethnic collaborative effort is founded on the belief that sacred music has the ability to bring forth shared human values on which humanity’s future depends: peace, understanding and respect for all living things. Full details and guidelines are available at the official website, www.festivalofsacredmusic.org

Spray tan and teeth whitening (( $85 ))
Spray bronzers give you a lustrous, fresh-off-the-beach glow without exposing your skin to the powerful rays of our binary suns. It lasts from seven to ten days and doesn’t smell or leave you orange.
Teeth naturally darken and yellow during the aging process. You can now erase the past by whitening your teeth- it has become affordable and convenient with a dental hygienist.
Call Maranda Lic. Esthetician at (818) 481.6095 for more info.
www.thespa10.com

Holistic Facials by Karina-December Specials
Affordable Seasonal Gift of Beauty and Well being is here
Facial Gift Certificates $40(1/2 hr), $50(45 min), $65(1 hr)
New Client  Facial $65
Rejuvenating and Hydrating treatments
Specializes in Rosacea, Acne treatments and product
No machines are used, hands only. Peaceful environment.
Enjoy 25% off on our best sellers.
http://www.FacialsByKarina.com
For appt (323) 663-8382 or karina@facialsbykarina.com
They offer flexible hours for busy Moms!

 Malibu Beach Supply Co.
Whale watching boat excursion adventures departing from the Malibu Pier™.
Saturday and Sunday’s through April 2011 (We are running 12/26, 12/27, 12/31, 1/01 and 1/02 for the holiday’s)
A morning excursion will depart at 10:30 AM – the afternoon excursion departs at 1:30 PM. 
All trips last approximately 2 1/2 hours
$45 Adults / $35 Children (ages 3 – 12, under 3 are free) Seniors $35 (over 62) 15% off groups of 10 or more Family Ticket
www.malibupier.com

Complete Massage Therapy by Flora
Massage therapist specializing in shiatsu, reflexology, Swedish massage, deep tissue, sport massage. Will come to you. 20 Years of experience, references available. Email flora.bader@sbcglobal.net for more info.

Joe’s Gold & Silver in Encino: Turn your Gold Into Cash
They promise to pay more than anyone.
They buy:
Gold & Silver
Diamonds
Estate Jewelry
Watches
Coins
Dental Gold
Make great money hosting a gold & silver part Contact Jeff at
818-789-0255.
16060 Ventura Boulevard in Encino at the corner of Ventura and Woodley

Pastry Perfect Custom Cakes, Photography, and Party Planning
Summer makes amazing, delicious fondant cakes for any occasion. Place your order today for your holiday cakes and pastries-they make great gifts. Planning your child’s party? Let Summer take care of everything from invitations and decorations to food and entertainment. Check out her website for pictures, pricing and contact information. Mention Jen’s List for a free party planning consultation-a $50 value.
www.summerspastryperfect.com

Need Kids Furniture?
Save 40-60% off retail and buy factory direct. Cribs, changing tables, bunk-beds, mattresses, cool play tables.  All of your furniture needs. They also offer custom a la Restoration Hardware, Williams Sonoma, Pottery Barn, etc. Call Barry (a new father!) at 310-694-3424 or 310-871-5261. Mention Jen’s List and receive an additional 5% off.

Matlock Web Consulting Helps Businesses Get Profitable Online
Get found online.  They  build new websites or troubleshoot existing ones which are not performing well.  Word Press experts, also skilled in SEO, Pay Per Click consulting and social media strategies. December special: Professional, perfectly SEO’d small business websites for $850, including registration with Google, bing and Yahoo search. It’s a jungle out there in internet marketing. Your customers are searching. Let Matlock Web help them find you.
818-570-1775
www.matlockwebconsulting.com

Be Your Most Authentic Self
Therapy for individuals, couples or parents, for people who want to be the kind of parents they dream of being, or have the kind of head-over heels in love relationship they were in that made them want to marry and have children in the first place.  Empathetic, effective therapy for people who are wanting to experience great joy and love in their lives and relationships.  Licensed since 1990 and with 2 grown children and a long, committed (27 years!) marriage of her own, Catherine DeMonte, LMFT has been helping individuals, couples and families get to the kind of lives they know they deserve. She may be reached at 818-880-6559 or 310-295-2130 and has offices in Calabasas and Beverly Hills.  .
www.catherinedemonte.com

New Santa Monica Sit ‘N Sleep Offers Live Body Diagnostic Technology
2828 Wilshire Boulevard
www.sitnsleep.com

Mamma Mia: A Mommy & Me group for New Moms at The Pump Connection in Woodland Hills
This is an incredible group where lifetime friendships are formed. It is a 10-week support group for moms with infants 0-5 months old. Twins are welcome.  Topics include developmental milestones, sleep issues, nursing, bottle feeding, bonding with baby, scheduling, pumping, naps, fussiness, teething, and more!  Lead by Dr. Amy Clayton, a psychotherapist specializing in individual, couple and family therapy with a focus on postpartum issues and their effect on depression, relationships, and family. The next session begins the first weekend in December and there are only two spots left.  Sign up on the waiting list if you already have a newborn or sign up on the waiting list for the next session if you think you will have delivered by the first week of January.
818-209-6700
www.dramyclayton.com/groups.html

Shop for the sterling girls on your holiday list with Silpada Designs
Thursday, December 9th from 5-7pm
FINE not “fashion” handcrafted .925 sterling silver jewelry
www.mysilpada.com/mia.morgan
Call 805-446-6585 if you have any questions
Cisco’s Mexican Restaurant
1712Avenida de Las Arboles in Thousand Oaks