Saturday January 8, 2011

 

Today in History
– President George Washington delivers first State of the Union, 1790
– The Battle of New Orleans, 1815
– Music Elvis Presley receives his first guitar, 1946
– Mona Lisa exhibited in Washington, 1962
http://www.history.com/this-day-in-history/crazy-horse-fights-last-battle

 

Great Deal on Neighborhood Italian Restaurant in Tarzana
Voomerang sent over a really nice coupon link for $50 worth of food and drinks for only $25 at La Finestra Trattoria on Ventura Blvd. The reviews look great (4 stars on Open Table), and they threw in an extra kicker for Jen’s List readers – use the coupon code JENSJAN and you save an extra 15%. So if you already go there, you get to save big on your next lunch or dinner, and if you haven’t been yet, they’re practically paying you to check it out.
www.Voomerang.com

 

Start the year well-organized by leaving one shelf bare
With every shelf, cupboard and cranny in your home full, the next time you have an armload of stuff for a project, it gets shoved on top of something else, and soon it all devolves into disarray. What’s needed, always, is an empty shelf.
http://connect.oregonlive.com/user/pjeffrie/index.html

 

Play
A hangout for families with kids from birth to 6. They offer session music and art classes, as well as drop-in Messy Art, events, private parties, and a retail store featuring wooden toys, family music & kids’ musical instruments.
5814 W. Third St., b/t S. Cochran & S. Cloverdale Aves in LA
323-988-1189
http://play-losangeles.com/

 

A Closer Look: With children and food allergy diagnoses, thoroughness is key
http://www.latimes.com/health/la-he-closer-food-allergies

 

Half Baked Co.
To all you moms out there trying to lose weight for the New Year, have no fear Half Baked Co is here!  This year, you don’t have to give up cupcakes because all of our baked goods are half the fat, calories and sugar, yet twice as tasty as all those calorie-busting regular sugary sweets.  We are offering a great “New Year’s Resolution Deal,” buy a dozen mini cupcakes, get the second dozen at half price.  This year discover guilt-free indulgence in the smaller things in life.
www.halfbaked.co

 

Reduce Parenting Stress & Reclaim Your Calm Voice
Positive Parenting Solutions empowers parents of toddlers to teens with a proven, easy to implement process to correct misbehavior permanently without nagging, reminding or yelling.
www.PositiveParentingSolutions.com

 

Devorah Rodgers, MFT is Starting Two Therapy Groups in Beverly Hills
Thursday evenings, beginning February 1st
One group will have a group for women in their 20s and 30s who want to work on career and relationship issues as well as whether or not to start their own families. The second group is for men and women over 40 which will be more of a general process group. Group therapy is a great, inexpensive way to get the benefits of therapy such as improved communication and coping skills. 
www.devorahrodgers.com

 

Jumbo Shrimp Circus Presents The Magical & Joyful Spectacle of Epoxie
Jan. 10th – Jan. 21st on Mon.’s, Wed.’s and Fri.’s at 10:30 a.m.
Two Roads Theater, 4348 Tujunga Avenue in Studio City
A morning’s delight for young children and their caregivers. A show filled with juggling, uni-cycling, plate spinning, and overall silliness, each morning show delivers a theatrical playground and an educational experience and that toddlers and pre-schoolers will enjoy and remember. Tickets are on sale at www.jumboshrimpcircus.com/boxoffice. Preschools are welcome with special group rates. $10 for children, $12 for adults. $8 per child for school groups or groups of 10 or more people. Bring your ticket on the day of the show to Caioti, The Gelato Bar, Rock a Buy Baby and Bare Sole in Studio City for special discounts.

 

MEMBERS NEED LEADS – CAN YOU HELP?
Sherman Oaks couple with 5 year old son eager to learn about home schooling and would like to find other Sherman Oaks (or nearby) like minded parents on the same path. Contact RBedd@aol.com.
AND
Does anyone have any experience doing Botox for headaches? If so, call Sandy at (818) 597-9166.
AND
Mature woman on fixed income looking for nice sized guest house with garden, low rent in exchange for weekend babysitting/pet sitting/errand running. Grandma to 3! Great with kids, no pets, quiet living. Looking for February 1st availability. Contact: jamieandjesse@yahoo.com.
AND
Looking for a roommate. Great apartment in Valley Village. Master bedroom with attached bathroom is available for $750, plus $50 to $100 in utilities. Look for a responsible adult male or female to movie in. No pets. Email Dani.Burstein@gmail.com for more information.
AND
Looking for a rental because Mother-in-Law needs to move in! Sold home in Hancock park and now are looking for a 3-plus bedroom with a guest home, or 4 bedrooms with some “independence” (like a separate bathroom or entrance for her). Interested in Toluca Lake, Burbank, Hancock Park, West Side, Santa Monica, Carthay Circle, Beverlywood, Studio City, Culver City, Westwood, Brentwood. Willing to pay up to $5K. Email abran8@sbcglobal.net.
AND
Looking for a house to swap with or house/dog-sit for in Southern California during spring break. Preferably near Disneyland, a beach or Los Angeles, but am flexible and don’t mind driving. One adult and one child traveling. Dates are March 26th through 31st, though can be slightly extended up to a full week, if need be. Four bedroom house is in Scottsdale Arizona, if are interested in a swap.  Pictures and details upon request. Contac Karen Cohen at kccevent@cox.net.
AND
Looking for a temporary nanny to care for an 11 month old two days a week. Dates are for the week of January 10th, 17th, 24th and possibly the week of January 31st. Must have live scan and cpr/first aid certification. Two 8 hour days at $12 per hour. Area is Baldwin Hills near Labrea and Stocker. Call Lisa at (323) 333-5008.
AND
Has anyone gone through a debt consolidation? Who did you use? Call Pegi at (818) 645-1770.
AND
Looking for a rusted cast iron pan or Dutch oven. Email msmarm@roadrunner.com.

 

MDGWeddings – Wedding Photography
Los Angeles based professional wedding photographer who loves the job! This is someone that puts their heart into every photo they take. Now booking 2011-2012.
www.mdgweddings.com

 

Photojournalistic Childrens Photos
Based out of West Hollywood, Jillian Sorkin’s clients have ranged from high end magazine Art & Living to corporate giants such as Guess. Her current endeavor explores the wonder and magic of the world of children with her beautiful portraits.  Her exquisite photo sessions are being offered at a special price for the New Year of $175 (regularly $350) and is available to new clients through the month of February. Book now to reserve your Valentine’s Day session.
(310) 951-2499
www.jilliansorkin.com

 

Tutoring and Reading Specialist
Pre-K through 5th grade, Diane is the tutor for your children. Credentialed teacher, she makes every session a success. Phonics, reading, Language Arts and time management are her expertise.  Familiar with private and public school curriculums. Will consult with child’s teacher if desired.  She has worked with children with special needs.  Diane brings all materials and rewards.  She will tutor from Beverly Hills to Sherman Oaks from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays for $75 per one hour session. Recommendations available! Email dianefond@aol.com.

 

When is it OK to Let Kids be Quitters?
http://articles.latimes.com/2010/jun/11/home/la-hm-quitting-20100611

 

 

“Aromatherapy & Your Child” – Learning Lecture at Outside the Box
Wednesday, January 11th at 7 p.m.
22011 Avenue San Luis in Woodland Hills
Come learn how to use and implement the powerful properties of aromatherapy into your life and your infant or toddler’s life.  Discover the amazing ways the brain responds to scent. Learning how the Olfactory system works in the brain, you can help your child learn to: relax, self soothe, calm, sleep better, deeper, longer, help deal with pain from teething and ear aches, be more alert during awake hour,  and deal with tantrums and hormonal surges more effectively. As a parent, come learn the benefits that aromatherapy has to offer when dealing with fatigue/sleeplessness, depression, migraines, anxiety, moodiness . . . and much more. Nicola Salter from Aroma 1/NICCI is the expert guest speaker.  Nicola is a certified Aromatherapist from the UK. This is a free lecture to all OTB Members. Non-OTB Members the fee is $10 per person. Email registration@otbee.com to register for this event. 
(818) 348-PLAY
www.otbee.com

 

The Pinnacle Challenge
Looking for a New Year’s Boot Camp that will get you on the path to a healthy lifestyle and help you meet your fitness goals? Join The Pinnacle Challenge in Palm Springs, CA for a 3-day weekend retreat that provides you with ways to enhance your fitness levels and give you the tools for healthier eating. 
   * Lodging at the Desert House Inn in the Historic Tennis District of Palm Springs
   * Fresh, organic dining for 3 days
   * Daily therapeutic massage
And much more.
www.thepinnaclechallenge.com/

 

Want to Get Your Kids Excited About Cooking?
Sunday, January 16th from Noon to 1 p.m. at Whole Foods in Tarzana
Tess Cacciatore, chef/author/advocate for family healthy living, will be conducting a cooking class that is great for getting the kids into the kitchen. *Healthy Recipes for Families on the Go!* with free delicious gifts and tastes from the day’s sponsor Pamela’s Products (learn more at www.pamelasproducts.com), and featuring some wheat-free and gluten-free recipes. The event is an extension of cooking classes “Cooking with Bella & Bo” at the Spectrum Kids Gym in Tarzana and is free and open to the public.

 

Win Some Simply Good Goodies
Simply Good is hosting a contest on its Facebook fan page to win the ultimate hands-free hooded baby/toddler towel. The ultra-soft and absorbent towel converts to an apron so parents’ clothes stay dry and hands stay free to attend to their baby.
www.facebook.com/SimplyGoodUS

 

The Only Whale Watching Tour in World Famous Malibu
2.5 hour tours at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Private charters are available at other times and walk ups are welcome.  For reservations, book online at: www.malibupier.com or call (310) 456-8031.
23000 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu

 

 

Rusti Lee Arts
Owned and operated by a local artist. Rusti Lee Arts specializes in whimsical hand painted, personalized gifts and décor. Some of Rusti Lee’s products include artwork, knobs, crayon holders, leash holders, custom signs, address plaques, photo boxes and so much more.  Check out Rusti Lee Art’s website for fun. If you decide to buy something use the coupon code “Jen15” to receive 15% off all orders over $25 (does not include S&H).
www.rustileearts.com

 

Math Help at Mathnasium
Are your child’s math skills ready for 2011? Passing grades (even A’s and B’s) in elementary and middle school math do not guarantee that your child has the all-around mathematical knowledge necessary for success in higher grades.  In the evolving global economy is your child prepared to compete with the rest of the world for opportunities? To find out how Mathnasium can prepare your child for success please call (805) 777-8403 or email thousandoaks@mathnasium.com.
www.mathnasium.com

 

HarryandDina.com
It’s the site for moms/parents to buy and sell new and used designer kids clothes. Everyone wants their kids to look cute and dress them up for special occasions and holidays which can get costly. As the parties are over and the new year begins Harry & Dina allows you to sell your designer kids clothes for free in return allowing others to buy great clothes and a great deal.
www.HarryAndDina.com

 

The-J Preschool is a Play Based/Reggio Inspired Preschool
The “J” offers the following:
Great Environments Indoor and Outdoors – Serving Children 24 mos.- 5 yrs – The “J” collaborates with parents in Potty Training  – Gardening Program for all children – Enrichment Program Offering: Gym, Sign Language, Science Projects, Cooking and much more. Full-time & Part-time programs – Nutritious snacks served daily, Pizza every Friday! Low Teacher-Student Ratios – Open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with early drop off – Experienced, loving, fully qualified staff! Mention Jen’s List and receive 50% off registration and 10% off tuition when you register by January 30th. Or, receive one month free tuition when you register by January 15th. CRC welcomed. Call (661) 877-7121or email thejpreschool@yahoo.com for more information.

 

Welcome to the Well Mom!

You’ve just entered a guilt-free zone…a space where you come first – if only for a precious moment. From food to fitness to fun, think of The Well Mom as the best friend who reminds you it’s okay to take a little you-time every day. Enjoy!
www.thewellmom.com/blog/2011/01/04/unleash-your-inner-athlete-in-2011/

 

Go Gaga Bags are Designed for Real Life
They’re stylish, ergonomic, eco-friendly and best of all, comfortable to carry. The patent pending ergonomic strap not only spreads the weight of the bag across your back and shoulders, but also has a sleek style that suits both men and women. Go Gaga’s products include the Slide tote bag, the Gondola bag, the Messenger bag and the Urban Sherpa Strap,  and are versatile enough to use as a diaper bag, laptop bag, yoga bag or travel carry-on. Each of the totes is available in a rich assortment of colors and environmentally friendly materials.
www.gogagalife.com

 

The Baby K’tan® Baby Carrier

A 100% Natural Cotton, Ergonomically Designed & Stylish Hybrid Baby Carrier
Offered in hip neutral colors, the Baby K’tan is a cross between a sling and a structured front baby carrier, offering the positions and benefits of both! Not complicated or restrictive, the Baby K’tan® Baby Carrier, offers unparalleled comfort, safety, and convenience. The stylish and soft nature of the Baby K’tan® Baby Carrier will last as your baby grows (up to 35 pounds – one of the most durable of its kind!) providing comfort alongside simple and convenient maintenance – all in an exclusive design that can be worn in multiple wearing positions. Using the Baby K’tan infant carrier your baby can be carried upright (facing in or out), and as they get older, they can be carried on your hip.
www.babyktan.com

 

Hand painted Murals for Kids
Eliza Osher and her husband make hand-painted murals for kids and love every bit of what they do. She is a Los Angeles native and has  spent the past 5 years traveling all over doing murals in Mexico and the US with so much success and positive feedback. They will be in Los Angeles off and on in 2011 and are currently booking jobs for May 2011. Check their blog & send an email to let them know if they can help create a space for your kids to live, imagine, and grow in!
www.artwallgdl.blogspot.com

 

Partylite Candles “Cyber Sale” Has Been Extended
Over 200 items still on sale. Save up to 60% or more. Email mycandlecents@yahoo.com if you have any questions or would like sign up for the ‘gently used’ product sale and candle blow out happening this spring. 
www.partylite.biz/sites/joaniewarner/home?reload=true

 

Pastry Perfect Special Occasion Cakes & Pastries
Summer makes amazing and delicious cakes, cupcakes and pastries for any event. She specializes in fondant work and is generally available for last minute orders. Her prices are very reasonable and she offers a variety of services including children’s party planning and party photography. Check out her website for pictures, pricing, and contact information. 
www.summerspastryperfect.com

 

Gary Drexler Painting
Gary has been in business for the past 37 years doing custom residential homes – exterior and interior painting. He uses the finest materials and also very considerate of cleanliness and neatness. Many references available. Call (818) 224-3596 or (818) 517-3324 for a free estimate.
DrexlerPersonalPainting.com

 

Calling All Expecting Mammas: Free Newborn Photography Session
Yes, you heard right, a free newborn session ($300 value) when you sign up your little angel for a 6 month session at Monica’s studio in Northridge.   Special is for babies born between January 5 and June 5, 2011. 6th month session is $294. This offer ends in just two weeks, on January 18th, so act quickly, space is limited as there are only 5 spots left.   A deposit is required upon booking your session which will be applied to your baby’s 6 month session.
www.MonicaMartinPhotography.com/blog
 

 

Now Hiring: Thirty-One Consultants! 
Looking for some extra cash? Set your own schedule! Earn trips and more! Be your own boss! No monthly quotes, starting commission at 25%.  Starter kit is just $99, join Thirty-One.  Great products, exciting rewards, new friends, a fresh start to the New Year.  Contact Jennifer Berger at (805) 368-0485.
jbyberger@gmail.com

 

Chow for Now Personal Chef Service for You
Are you a busy mom who wonders how you will get everything done and dinner on the table for your family? Maybe you have a friend who just had a baby and is totally overwhelmed. Are you trying to lose a few of those extra lbs from the holidays? Check out Chow for Now. Chef Lisa will come to your home and cook healthy, delicious meals allowing more time to spend with your family. Gift certificates are available. 
www.chowfornowchef.com

 

Supermarket Guru is Looking for New Online Consumer Panelists
Tell them what you think!  With more than 100,000 people, the SupermarketGuru.com national Consumer Research Panel represents households across America and wants to include people like you who care about foods and issues that impact our lives. Their surveys become articles, that often creates changes in the food industry. They will never sell any of our consumer panels names or information. To register, visit www.supermarketguru.com/index.cfm/go/sg.con.
www.supermarketguru.com/index.cfm/go/sg.consumerpanel

 

Nails by Galynne
Are you a mani/pedi kind of gal? Start your New Year off looking and feeling great. Galynne has been pampering the West Valley for over 7 years and is now at “Hair in L.A.,” in Tarzana, specializing in meticulous manicure and pedicure services. Mention Jen’s List and receive $10 off your first mani/pedi, or take $5 one service. To book your bliss call (818) 439-2755 or email PDbyG@aol.com for more information.