How to be Your Physical Best in 2008

As the year begins, many of us are focusing on fitness. Fortunately, I was able to get some tips from Laura Miranda MPT, CSCS of NYC Adventure Boot Camp. (Their boot camp is for women of all ages and fitness level. It is a four week outdoor fitness program that includes fitness instruction, nutritional counseling … Read More

The best plans of men and mice often go awry…

“The best plans of men and mice often go awry” – Robert Burns My husband (a new teacher) has vacation this entire week.   So, last week we made plans for every day of our “at-home” vacation in the City.  Monday, we would go to the American Museum of Natural History.  Tuesday, we would celebrate Christmas … Read More

Little Airplane Productions

On Wednesday, my three year old son Michael took part in a focus group for an upcoming show by Little Airplane Productions, the creators of The Wonder Pets, Oobi and more preschool programming.  Beforehand, I told him that his “job” was to listen to the story and then answer the questions that he was asked.  … Read More

Mom in the City’s Holiday Toy Guide 2007: Infants

1. Hasbro Tonka Wheel Drivers Scoot ‘n Scoop 3-in-1 Ride-On: Recommended for children 9 months to 3 years old, this is a great 3-in-1 dump truck.  Both of my little boys love it!  They enjoy playing with the shape-blocks and playing with the steering wheel which makes noises, has lights, and vibrates. APPROX. RETAIL: $ 39.99 2. LeapFrog Fridge Farm Magnetic … Read More

Mom in the City’s Holiday Toy Guide 2007: Toddlers

To my surprise, this was the hardest section for which to choose items. I wonder why… 1. International Playthings Lift-Off Rocket: Recommended for ages 18 months+, this rocket, with a lift off sequence, rocket sounds and light up boosters, has been receiving raves from across the board.  It comes with 2 astronauts, a space dog, alien, … Read More

Mom in the City’s Holiday Toy Guide 2007: Pre-Schoolers

1. Fisher-Price Smart Cycle Physical Learning Arcade System: Recommended for ages 3 to 6 years, this is one of the TOP pre-school holiday toys of the year (so shop early!).  Once the stationary bike is connected to your tv, your child must pedal and steer to keep playing the arcade games that they will be … Read More

The Preschool Game

I was at a birthday party recently where I met a woman with a child a little younger than my 3 year old son.  As is normally the case, the topic turned to preschool.  I was impressed by her candor.  She said, “My husband and I went back and forth regarding whether or not we … Read More

Now, Discover Your Strengths

I read this book back in early August and I’m just getting around to writing about it although I’ve recommended it verbally to several friends. Marcus Buckingham and Donald O. Clifton’s book (http://www.marcusbuckingham.com/books/discover-strengths.php) is great in that they encourage readers to focus on using their strengths rather than the conventional wisdom of focusing on fixing your … Read More

Reflections on September 11th / Oprah Show Update

First of all, no, I didn’t get a car or a gift bag or anything like that at the Oprah taping. What I did get was a reminder of how blessed I am to live in America.  (I was at the 9/11 show taping – “The Children of 9/11”.)  Danny “the singing cop” sang two songs … Read More

Still Stuck on Summer

I guess that I should be planning and focusing on the fall season, but I’m not.  I’m still stuck on summer.  Fall doesn’t begin until September 23rd, so I still have three more weeks to enjoy summer.  I haven’t crossed off all of the things on my personal and family “Summer To Do List”, so … Read More