No, I am not referring to my friend Greg, but to his restaurant (although Greg IS fabulous!) Bellissimo on Waverly is always a favorite eatery of mine because the service and food is excellent (and last night was no exception!)
I went for an impromptu dinner last night with my hubby, my son and my father-in-law. My father-in-law had a herb-crusted salmon fillet topped with a lemon basil cream sauce, which was served with a mushroom and sun-dried tomato risotto and asparagus. (Yumm!) My husband had one of their specials - which he raved about - beef tenderloin in a blue cheese crust, served with lovely little roasted baby potatoes, asparagus, broccoli, and grilled red pepper. (Just so you know, my husband doesn't eat blue cheese ever, and actually doesn't really like it, but Chef Greg I guess just knows what he is doing, because my hubby said it was EXCELLENT!) I also had a special - lobster ravioli with a drizzle of Alfredo sauce. On top of the perfectly seasoned ravioli, there were garlic prawns and a little nest of sauteed spinach. I also loved the roasted grape tomatoes that adorned the plate...a perfect burst of fresh summer flavor! My son had a ham pizza - which he devoured with pure excitement. I can't say enough about this place - not only do we always have a really enjoyable time there, but the homey, yet upscale atmosphere keeps us coming back for more!
Happy eating!
Jaime
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Friday, August 28, 2009
My baby's not a baby anymore!
Good morning!
I am not sure why all of a sudden this has hit me, but last night I woke up at about 1 30am, suddenly surprised at the thought of my son going to his nursery school orientation next week. Yes, that's right, my little guy is going to be on his own! Well, I suppose I should be perfectly honest - I am a suck...apparently a big suck. Mikhail is only going for 2 mornings a week, so it's not every day or anything. (That's what I had to tell myself last night, in order to relax myself!)
Most moms I have spoken to were thrilled at the prospect of having a few hours to themselves when their kids went to nursery school, and I am sure once I get a taste of it, I'll like it too. But right now, I am not so sure!
Somehow, even though currently I am always wishing for more hours in the day, I am worried I won't know what to do with myself...
I think Mikhail will probably handle this adjustment better than I will!
Jaime
I am not sure why all of a sudden this has hit me, but last night I woke up at about 1 30am, suddenly surprised at the thought of my son going to his nursery school orientation next week. Yes, that's right, my little guy is going to be on his own! Well, I suppose I should be perfectly honest - I am a suck...apparently a big suck. Mikhail is only going for 2 mornings a week, so it's not every day or anything. (That's what I had to tell myself last night, in order to relax myself!)
Most moms I have spoken to were thrilled at the prospect of having a few hours to themselves when their kids went to nursery school, and I am sure once I get a taste of it, I'll like it too. But right now, I am not so sure!
Somehow, even though currently I am always wishing for more hours in the day, I am worried I won't know what to do with myself...
I think Mikhail will probably handle this adjustment better than I will!
Jaime
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
BDI Ice Cream!
I love seeing the sun outside, and this past weekend, I think everybody heaved a collective sigh of relief - finally, we had a wonderful, hot, sunny weekend! It's too bad it is already the end of August, but I digress..
My husband and I took out son out to his family's cabin over the weekend, which was a lot of fun. And on the way back, we hit the BDI for some creamy, luscious ice cream. Every time I go, (which probably only ends up being once per summer) I am reminded of all the times I went there as a kid. Waiting in line, I dream about getting the biggest, stickiest concoction, but I always settle on a soft-serve cone (and sometimes I even get a flavor other than vanilla!) So, after waiting patiently, my son told me he would like a "coco" cone, which in Mikhail-speak, is chocolate. My husband got his strawberry sundae, I got a chocolate/vanilla twist, (and Mikhail of course, got his chocolate cone,) and then we ventured off to gobble them down. We walked across the bridge, and watched the boats go by - some just cruising, some pulling water-skiiers. Even though we haven't had the best summer, (I know, I could say a lot worse...) our visit to the BDI put me right into the summer spirit. Now, if I can keep that going until June....
Jaime
My husband and I took out son out to his family's cabin over the weekend, which was a lot of fun. And on the way back, we hit the BDI for some creamy, luscious ice cream. Every time I go, (which probably only ends up being once per summer) I am reminded of all the times I went there as a kid. Waiting in line, I dream about getting the biggest, stickiest concoction, but I always settle on a soft-serve cone (and sometimes I even get a flavor other than vanilla!) So, after waiting patiently, my son told me he would like a "coco" cone, which in Mikhail-speak, is chocolate. My husband got his strawberry sundae, I got a chocolate/vanilla twist, (and Mikhail of course, got his chocolate cone,) and then we ventured off to gobble them down. We walked across the bridge, and watched the boats go by - some just cruising, some pulling water-skiiers. Even though we haven't had the best summer, (I know, I could say a lot worse...) our visit to the BDI put me right into the summer spirit. Now, if I can keep that going until June....
Jaime
Monday, August 24, 2009
How do colors impact your little one?
I was doing some reading recently, and came across an article on Buzzle.com that I found interesting. I have always liked learning about how colors affect us - our moods, appetites, sleep. In my conversations with other parents, sometimes they have chosen nursery colors not based on what necessarily is their favorite color, but based on color research - which colors increase developmental growth, induce a state of calm -- that kind of thing. So here is a little breakdown for you, if this is something you are interested in too!
1. Yellow - a calming color, that has the ability to create a warm and sunny feeling. Apparently, yellow is known to stimulate muscle activity. (Note to self - do not choose yellow for the new baby's room - this kid is already kicking up a storm and keeping me up all night!)
2. White - white represents purity, and also symbolizes peace and joy. Because white reflects back most of the light (rather than absorbing it) this will make any room feel larger and brighter. Personally, I think you have to be careful with white, because your baby's room might feel a little too clinical, unless you have some lovely colored accents and bedding to warm things up.
3. Blue - blue produces a calming effect and gets the body ready for sleep. I say girls can have blue rooms too - it's all about how you accessorize! With blue's ability to promote peace, wisdom and confidence, it's a great color for a nursery or kids room.
4. Green - who doesn't love the look of a lush green park in summertime? Green refreshes the spirit and is thought to reinforce self-esteem and give hope. ( I love sage green!) Green might a be a good one if you are looking to redo a teen's room - who didn't have periods of self-doubt during those formative years??!!
5. Red - some might say that red is a no-no because it will over-stimulate your babe. This article says that reds increase desire, excitability and passion (ok, so maybe not for your teen's room..stick with green!) The article goes on to say that red can be used as an accent color...I think this is a nice compromise - let's keep the excitability in check, but maybe red can be a vibrant and fun accent in your little bundle's room.
6. Purple - darker shades of purple typically represent royalty, power and luxury. However, these dark tones can also evoke feelings of sadness, and frustration (too much navy can have this effect as well.) Lighter shades are better - they can create a more peaceful and nostalgic room. (I would like to say, that I have seen some beautiful girls rooms done up in a light lavender, with a chocolate accent...really super!)
7. Earth Tones - grey, brown, beige. This article says that these are excellent choices for hyperactive children, because these colors represent warmth, comfort and relaxation. (Again, in my personal option, accent colors are super important here. It's no fun being beige.)
So there you have it. Some insider information on color and how these choices can affect your child. But don't take it too seriously. I think it's more important to have some fun planning the room. I would say that whatever color you choose, do a patch in a few coats. (The final color after it has dried might look a lot different in one coat versus two.) Keep the walls on the lighter side of the color and that way you have many more options with your bedding, flooring and accessories.
I can't stress enough the patch test though...I once picked a gold color off a paint chip, and started madly painting without testing it, and after I furiously painted a whole room, I hated the color. It literally made me not want to go into the room. (Guess who went back to the paint store that same day to get some more paint samples????)
Have fun picking your colors, and if you really can't decide, do what I did, and build your color scheme off a fabulous crib bedding set...
Jaime
1. Yellow - a calming color, that has the ability to create a warm and sunny feeling. Apparently, yellow is known to stimulate muscle activity. (Note to self - do not choose yellow for the new baby's room - this kid is already kicking up a storm and keeping me up all night!)
2. White - white represents purity, and also symbolizes peace and joy. Because white reflects back most of the light (rather than absorbing it) this will make any room feel larger and brighter. Personally, I think you have to be careful with white, because your baby's room might feel a little too clinical, unless you have some lovely colored accents and bedding to warm things up.
3. Blue - blue produces a calming effect and gets the body ready for sleep. I say girls can have blue rooms too - it's all about how you accessorize! With blue's ability to promote peace, wisdom and confidence, it's a great color for a nursery or kids room.
4. Green - who doesn't love the look of a lush green park in summertime? Green refreshes the spirit and is thought to reinforce self-esteem and give hope. ( I love sage green!) Green might a be a good one if you are looking to redo a teen's room - who didn't have periods of self-doubt during those formative years??!!
5. Red - some might say that red is a no-no because it will over-stimulate your babe. This article says that reds increase desire, excitability and passion (ok, so maybe not for your teen's room..stick with green!) The article goes on to say that red can be used as an accent color...I think this is a nice compromise - let's keep the excitability in check, but maybe red can be a vibrant and fun accent in your little bundle's room.
6. Purple - darker shades of purple typically represent royalty, power and luxury. However, these dark tones can also evoke feelings of sadness, and frustration (too much navy can have this effect as well.) Lighter shades are better - they can create a more peaceful and nostalgic room. (I would like to say, that I have seen some beautiful girls rooms done up in a light lavender, with a chocolate accent...really super!)
7. Earth Tones - grey, brown, beige. This article says that these are excellent choices for hyperactive children, because these colors represent warmth, comfort and relaxation. (Again, in my personal option, accent colors are super important here. It's no fun being beige.)
So there you have it. Some insider information on color and how these choices can affect your child. But don't take it too seriously. I think it's more important to have some fun planning the room. I would say that whatever color you choose, do a patch in a few coats. (The final color after it has dried might look a lot different in one coat versus two.) Keep the walls on the lighter side of the color and that way you have many more options with your bedding, flooring and accessories.
I can't stress enough the patch test though...I once picked a gold color off a paint chip, and started madly painting without testing it, and after I furiously painted a whole room, I hated the color. It literally made me not want to go into the room. (Guess who went back to the paint store that same day to get some more paint samples????)
Have fun picking your colors, and if you really can't decide, do what I did, and build your color scheme off a fabulous crib bedding set...
Jaime
Friday, August 21, 2009
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Consumer Trends in Baby Products
Good morning! With the excessive rain we have been having lately, I have been doing some reading...I thought I would share some info with you regarding consumer trends in baby products. These are from ConsumerReports.org.
1. More Functional Designs - products have to be durable and user friendly. This is why I decided, after much thought, to make my bumper pads in 4 pieces, rather than one long pad. It is much easier to remove one side to clean, rather than having to remove one big, long piece. (And really, who likes having to undo and reposition the bumper pad ties!)
2. More Stylish Choices - "manufacturers have upped the style ante." You can say that again. Take a look around at all the cool looking baby gear out there! This article mentions strollers that are accented with cool colors, like periwinkle or cognac (mine is trimmed with celery green - very nice!)
I think this is what I longed for originally when I was looking for bedding for my son. Since nothing jumped out at me, Lavish Lamb was born!
3. What kind of statement do you want to make? The article goes into aesthetics, and is "the statement" important to you? What look do you want?
4. Greater attention to safety - specifically with products that are designed to protect your baby from germs - shopping cart protectors, disposable placemats etc. I guess the thing to consider here, is where do you draw the line? You have to decide what is right for your baby and your family. I know that I didn't use any shopping cart protectors - I don't think I could stomach hauling any more baby gear around with me!
With respect to bedding, a hot topic is bumper pads - to use or not use, that is the question! I used them, and I removed them as soon as my son started rolling around in his crib. There are people that are totally against them, and the government actually recommends that manufacturers attach a tag to them, warning consumers that they should be removed once your child can sit up unaided. Kids are too darn smart, and very quickly figure out that bumper pads make great launching pads, right out of the crib! Again, I guess it comes down to what is right for you and your baby.
According to ConsumerReports.org, it is really important that whatever bedding you use in your crib, that the mattress is firm, the fitted crib sheets is snug and not loose, and your blanket should be kept waist-height (tucked in on either side under the mattress.)
So much to consider! It's kind of scary to think about what our parents did with us as infants - one of my friends was actually driven around in, not a car seat (they weren't around then) but in a banana box in the back of the car! (She turned out ok, though!)
I'd love to hear what you think about safety issues. What is important to you?
Jaime
1. More Functional Designs - products have to be durable and user friendly. This is why I decided, after much thought, to make my bumper pads in 4 pieces, rather than one long pad. It is much easier to remove one side to clean, rather than having to remove one big, long piece. (And really, who likes having to undo and reposition the bumper pad ties!)
2. More Stylish Choices - "manufacturers have upped the style ante." You can say that again. Take a look around at all the cool looking baby gear out there! This article mentions strollers that are accented with cool colors, like periwinkle or cognac (mine is trimmed with celery green - very nice!)
I think this is what I longed for originally when I was looking for bedding for my son. Since nothing jumped out at me, Lavish Lamb was born!
3. What kind of statement do you want to make? The article goes into aesthetics, and is "the statement" important to you? What look do you want?
4. Greater attention to safety - specifically with products that are designed to protect your baby from germs - shopping cart protectors, disposable placemats etc. I guess the thing to consider here, is where do you draw the line? You have to decide what is right for your baby and your family. I know that I didn't use any shopping cart protectors - I don't think I could stomach hauling any more baby gear around with me!
With respect to bedding, a hot topic is bumper pads - to use or not use, that is the question! I used them, and I removed them as soon as my son started rolling around in his crib. There are people that are totally against them, and the government actually recommends that manufacturers attach a tag to them, warning consumers that they should be removed once your child can sit up unaided. Kids are too darn smart, and very quickly figure out that bumper pads make great launching pads, right out of the crib! Again, I guess it comes down to what is right for you and your baby.
According to ConsumerReports.org, it is really important that whatever bedding you use in your crib, that the mattress is firm, the fitted crib sheets is snug and not loose, and your blanket should be kept waist-height (tucked in on either side under the mattress.)
So much to consider! It's kind of scary to think about what our parents did with us as infants - one of my friends was actually driven around in, not a car seat (they weren't around then) but in a banana box in the back of the car! (She turned out ok, though!)
I'd love to hear what you think about safety issues. What is important to you?
Jaime
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