A Journal for Daddy

My husband had to go away on business for week and we wanted to show him what we did while he was gone so we decided to make a picture journal.

We started by gathering supplies: Construction paper, our craft projects, a hole puncher, yarn, glue stick, scissors and markers. We then printed some image/photos on 3-hole paper (we had bought it by mistake) although you can print on plain 85. x 11 and use a hole puncher. We then placed the papers in chronological order and flipped them over.

We then cut three pieces of yarn, approximately 8 inches long. One by one, we looped them through each hole and tied them into a little bow. Dad was touched by our little story book.

Do you remember making books like these when you were little?

More photos are shown here the Whrrl Story 'A Welcome Home Book'

Anthropologie in my Kitchen

I. Love. Anthropologie. I have been doing my best to resist them for a long time but staring at their amazing window displays in NYC this weekend make me squeal out loud. This kitchen inspired photo made me spend some time on that section of their site so I am going to share some items I have craving.

The Apron. I need to be wearing this while little hands are covered in flour.

I received this mug as a hostess gift last year and I use it everyday.

I have such a hard time choosing between the colors of the Latte Bowls that I have not purchased yet. I think I need to start with some white.

A lovely way to open your bottles of wine

For recording recipes the old fashioned way.

These little bird shakers remind me of the ones my Grandma used every day.

I love every single dishtowel being offered right now, especially of the ones with birds and nature but I thought this is a great one to bring out each December.

The Holiday Pak - Great Gifts & Products

Products Featured: Build-a-Bear Workshop, BOZ, Temple Touch Thermometer, California Olive Ranch Oil, and PlayMobil. Courtesy of MomSelect.

Make Daddy Do It - Ham, Lettuce, Red Onion & Pickle Sandwich

Another tip: Have the 'fun' parent do it! Being the chief mess hall officer and cook can set you up for rebellion. Period. I had brought home some oranges and lettuce as requested. Naturally, the youngest had to complain and so daddy innocently walked over with his sandwich and it was in demand.

Therefore, if you want the kiddos (or yourself) to try something, have someone, or the 'coolest' parent make it and place some new items in there. The youngsters usually do not appreciate a raw stronger red onion flavor but maybe it was the salt of the pickles that made this so appealing and tasty. I may utilize spinach next time since they went for this combo.

Nominate a 'Champion Against Child Hunger'

Do these words sound like you or someone you know? Caring. Compassionate. Inspired. Then consider nominating yourself or them in the 'Champions Against Child Hunger Contest' as a way to recognize your/their efforts in helping those in need by entering (Submit a short essay and photo ) at the Champions Against Child Hunger Web site, http://www.championsagainstchildhunger.org/, through Jan. 22.

Who is supporting this contest?
ConAgra Foods Foundation and Sandra Lee, of Sandra Lee Semi-Homemade, in partnership with Share Our Strength®, are launching the Champions Against Child Hunger contest to recognize those who are doing great work to help end child hunger in communities across the country.

How is money raised for Share Our Strength?
For each submission, ConAgra Foods Foundation will donate $10 to Share Our Strength. Then, you’ll have a chance to vote on finalists to raise even more funds. And, the finalists and winner both receive grants for their hunger relief organization of choice.
o Each of the top five finalists will receive a cash prize of $500 as a reward for their advocacy and passion for ending child hunger, and a matching donation of $500 to Share Our Strength or their hunger relief organization of choice.
o The grand prize winner will receive a trip to New York City, a tour of The Food Network studios, and a cash prize of $1,500, as well as a donation of $5,000 to Share Our Strength or their hunger relief organization of choice.

How can I vote for the finalists and When will the winner be announced?
Five finalists will be selected from the pool of submissions and featured on http://www.championsagainstchildhunger.org/ beginning Feb. 22, 2010 where consumers can vote and select the grand prize winner. Voting will be open through March 19, 2010 and the grand prize winner will be announced on March 25, 2010.

Cutting a Pomegranate - A Science Experiment

As I have told you before, we love our pomegrante juice so when the kids asked me how the juice is made/comes from, I realized that I had not actually brought the actual fruit into the house. Gosh, amazing that all these years have passed without eating the seeds from the actual fruit.

I began to really think about how long it had been since I had opened one and ate the seeds. I think I was 12. As you will see in the video, the kids are excited as this like some sort of science experiment. They are looking forward to seeing what it looks like inside and see what Mom is doing. Try this with your own kids.

By the way, you will see in this video (as with others), my youngest is a bit of a challenge. However, 99% of the time, he gives it a try, but at his own pace. I can respect that.

Garnet Hill Wish List

I figured Santa will be stopping by the mall on his way over and I figured he may pick a little something for me (before he gets to Williams-Sonoma) so I want to give him plenty of options.

They may call this print tea party but it screams coffee cup to me.

A journal to record what I am grateful for


A wrap to keep me warm when walking to the mailbox to send thank you cards

And a hat to compliment any jacket or the above mentioned wrap

Lovely shopping and picnic basket

For the Home:

A lovely pillow to make the couch or bed a bit more festive

To stay warm inside, a colorful throw

Hostess gift times two

For the wee ones:

Love this book

Art Kits

EOS Smooth Sphere

I must share this fabulous product that I have been using since late July. It is called EOS Smooth Sphere. This fabulous little ball of balm was in one of swag bags a Blogher and I waited a few days to try it. Why? Well, let me tell you.

I have always been a 'must wear lipstick out the door' gal. I could have messy hair and no makeup but always had lipstick with me and on my lips. That all changed 2 years ago when I suddenly had this horrible reaction with blistering, itching, oozing, pain and all sorts of nastiness on just some areas near outer rim of my upper lip. No, not herpes people. In fact, I spent a number of months going to Yale to see doctors.

These doctors tested me for just about everything with no answer but threw all kinds of steroidal creams at me. So far this year, I had given up trying any more brands and variations (stains, tinted balms etc) to find I react to all of them. At any rate, besides Vaseline and Eucerin balm, I have not been able to wear anything until EOS smooth sphere. I reluctantly tried it and waited to wake up in the middle of the night to a reaction but did not. I went days with no reaction so began using it and am thrilled. I also love it because of its hard 'shell' that does not get crushed in purse and get all over. I have not yet tried the melon or summer fruit so my experience has only been with the sweet mint.

In addition, it is organic and affordable. My friends will be finding these in their gift bags/stockings. Oh, I see they have a stick version as well. Yes, please!

We also received the shaving cream. Bliss.

HALO SleepSack Swaddle Giveaway

Naturally as new parents, we were overwhelmed with all the products you are told you do need, must have, must buy, do not bother with etc. but so many of my mommy friends swore that I would love and need the SleepSack™ . It an important product to have as it replaces a blanket in the crib and we all know how important that is in relation to SIDS. SIDS is the sudden death of an infant under one year of age which remains unexplained after a thorough case investigation.

When MomSelect asked me if I wanted to give one away I accepted as we believe in the product and Halo is a company that creates products for healthy and safe sleep. Now the sleepsack was an invaluable product for us with the two babies but now it is even better as you have the swaddle option. We loved having our SleepSack as it made it so easy to change the babies and most importantly, we could zip up from the bottom up and never had to worry about pinching their faces and heck, we could even change them while they were drifting off to sleep. I love that the new design gives you the choice of swaddling as my first did not like being swaddled but my second one loved it (and swaddling him was the only thing that helped us to keep our sanity).

In addition, the design is great as the swaddle does not get too close to baby's face. Also the design allows for arms to be in or out, or you can even remove the swaddle feature to use as a regular SleepSack™ wearable blanket.


I am happy to say that we have a Lush Dots Velboa in 'Cream' in the newborn (6-12lbs) to giveaway. Here is what you need to do to qualify (winner choosen via Random.org on Sunday, Nov. 15th):

Watch my Tastemaker video on YouTube, give it 5 stars AND leave a comment on YouTube.

For TWO additional entries EACH (must do item above to qualify):
*Become a fan of the Savor the Thyme Facebook Page and leave comment on FB

**Follow me on Twitter @savorthethyme and tweet me that you are now a follower.

***Retweet and/or post the following message on Twitter and comment here, linking to your update/post:

GIVEAWAY! @savorthethyme Enter 2 win Halo Sleepsack http://alturl.com/9ek4 PLS RT

By the way, Please consider donating to the Libby's and Feeding America campaign!

Full Disclosure: MomSelect gave me two HALO SleepSack Swaddle's for this review/giveaway. I gifted one as a baby shower gift.

Feeding Babies 'Real Food' : eebee's Mix & Mash Adventures

I am all warm and fuzzy inside. Why? You know I love finding a show, publication or educational material that aids to teach parents and children about the importance of eating real & nutritious foods. So I was thrilled when I was sent a draft of the eebee's Mix & Mash book and DVD. The DVD is fantastic and here are the reasons why:

1. eebee: The little ones can watch eeBee having a blast in the kitchen with the 'mommies'. eeBee is engaging because he makes all kinds of noises and is animated. eeBee also helps to prepare the food and is excited to eat it . eBee does not look like a human baby but kids love puppets, as we all know from watching Sesame Street.

2. These folks are flexible: I personally appreciate it when a recipes suggest substitutions: What if baby does not like tofu? Use bananas instead.

3. The recipes: simple yet full of variety: tofu, curry, fruits and vegetables and they even delve into spices, such as curry.


4. Game Playing: The mommies and eeBee play peek a boo, crush Cheerios, and teach shapes with sweet potatoes. I share one of my 'fun' techniques in this post.

Now onto the real value of the book & DVD and some food for thought from the Every Baby Company:
“The growing awareness that “unhealthy food = kids” is changing attitudes and behaviors about how and what we feed our kids, and how and when we educate them about healthy choices.”

Also (and apply this to children, not just babies): “When you feed your baby you are doing a lot more than providing the nutrition to support her physical growth. You are also nurturing her social, emotional and intellectual growth.”

The websites description of the Mix & Mash Adventure Book & DVD:
*The first-ever cooking with your baby book
*Inspired by the playful idea that if you can mash it, smash it, oosh it, goosh it, shake it, coat it or stir it, your baby can participate in the process of preparing meals
*More than a collection of mealtime ideas
*6 nutritious, simple, hands-on recipes
*Written in playful rhyme
*Tasty, tactile, and interactive “cooking” activities and discoveries with real food
*Deliciously color-coded
*Oversize baby board book
*INCLUDES: “how-to” DVD co-produced with Parents TV!

I can see the baby loving to watch the DVD with mom while they try the recipes and yes, even chewing on the board book.

Full disclosure: The Every Baby Company wrote me asking if I would like a copy. Naturally, I am sure they wanted a review but they did not ask nor have they paid me. I am happy to say that I think this is great enough to share with you.

Dining at Michael Jordan Steak House with Five for Fighting

Exciting title isn't it? Well, it is a bit of false advertising but still a great post. I am going to share with you the meal we had prior to seeing the Five for Fighting concert at the Mohegan Sun Casino. First the yummy meal at Michael Jordan's Steak House.

My meal consisted of the: Roasted Beet Salad. Here is the description from the menu: Smoked Almonds, Herbed Goat Cheese, Frisee, Radicchio & Truffle-Honey Vinaigrette. Now, normally I am not a beet girl. However, this dish turned me around and inspired me to make this beet dish.



Grilled Corn off-the-cob with Smoked Chile Butter. This was a lively salad that contained carmelized Onions and fresh cilantro. I think I moaned at the first bite.



My husband opted for a Scallops Special: seared scallops with radicchio, arugula salad, crispy capicola over yellow heirloom tomatoes with a Parmesan aioli. Heaven.



And to end the meal, a surprise from the restaurant to celebrate our 8th Wedding Anniversary: The 23 Layer Chocolate Cake




Now onto the concert: When the One to One Network asked me if I wanted to go to the concert, I think my mouth dropped open. I love Five for Fighting. Better yet, this would be great for a hubby-wife date night. In order to have a healthy marriage, you need to make time for yourselves and as parents, couple time is often put aside isn't it? I admit that I am guilty as well and took this opportunity to remind myself (and my hubby) how important the couple time is and how much fun we have together. We are now back to our weekly date nights. That may mean something as simple as some popcorn and a TV movie but it is our time.

Now, onto the concert: The concert began with "What Kind of World Do You Want" followed by "The Riddle". I felt as if John Ondrasiks' voice was caressing my insides with his soulful voice and music. Next came "Chances" which I had seen performed on the Today Show the week before so I was looking forward to hearing it live. I do not think I have ever heard a singer's voice as authentic live as on the album.

He then performed 'Slice' (The title song from this, his fifth album) which is a nostalgic tune and pays homage to Don McLean’s oldie but goodie, “American Pie" and past times. It is funny as he mentioned 'James Taylor' as that is exactly who I had thought of during this concert. I was reminded of the conversations, if you will, that go on between each song. You learn about he singers thoughts and life during the time the song was conceived.

Next came "Freedom never cries", "Tuesday", which is an ode to 9/11, then the touching "I Just Love You". After those songs I dried my eyes and continued to smile.

Happy people during the intermission of a fantastic concert. To quote my husband "I have a new favorite singer"

He is sending out a dedication to me. Ok, not really but he spotted me a minute later and I am sure he was wishing he was not married. Just go along with me, will you?

If you can get to a Five for Fighting Concert, do so and bring someone you care about. I will share the final song "Hope" for you below-Fantastic!!!

Full Disclosure: The tickets were supplied for the concert.

Wordless Wednesday - Mr. Potato Head needs a Dentist

Wordless Wednesday - A Pile of Leaves

Homepathy an Option for Family Health? Boiron says 'Yes'

We know it is coming, yes the Flu and Common Cold season. We also know that there are many warnings about treating young children with the current FDA approved decongestants, antihistamines and cough suppressants so what do we do when they are sick? What do we give them to help them feel more comfortable?

While I was at the TypeA Mom Conference last month, I was talking with many of the companies there and one of the companies was Boiron. Since then, I have been looking over the products that we were all given and have been researching them more and thought I would share some information and questions.


The samples I received

So who is Boiron? Boiron is a world leader in homeopathy so that tells me that they are not some duo making this stuff in their basement. They are best known for the top-selling flu medicine, Oscillococcinum, and its Arnicare line of pain relievers. They state that they "maintain the highest standards in manufacturing, complying with U.S. Food and Drug Administration regulations, the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States and drug Good Manufacturing Practices."

What is Homeopathy? "Homeopathy is a therapeutic method used to help the body rebalance and heal itself. It uses natural substances in micro-doses. Homeopathic medicines are used to treat many conditions, such as allergies, flu-like symptoms, cough and cold, pre-menstrual syndrome, arthritic pain, etc."

The samples we all received included: Children’s Oscillococcinum to nip flu-like symptoms in the bud and Children’s Coldcalm Pellets, a multi-symptom cold reliever. Interestingly, they told me that adults can use these products as well but I am not sure at what doses and frequency. I am actually most interested in the allergy medicine for my husband so I may need to pick some up. And since the products are available at most natural food stores and major retail drug chains such as CVS, Rite Aid, and Walgreens, I should be able to find it. If you are interested in trying some, you can get a $1 coupon.

I am a bit apprehensive about trying them on my children before myself and that is only because I am always a bit nervous when I give my children any medicine for the first time and I usually start with half the recommended dose to watch for reaction. But I am a worry-wart. I guess I better go get the Allergy medication for my husband first and take it from there.

Have you tried any of the products? What are your thoughts on homeopathy?

Full Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post however, I did receive some product samples at the conference as did all the attendees. Luckily, I have yet to use them as we have not been ill (thank goodness!)

A Day A Made Better for Many

Many of you know that I have been a part of the 'Day Made Better' Campaign and am lucky enough to be an "OfficeMax Mom". Well, today I was fortunate to be able to surprise the hometown winner with a large box full of supplies.



In fact, it was so heavy that I had to remove all the paper products and wheel them in on my kids wagon.



The principal was very helpful, the other teachers were so excited and the local paper was there to photograph the fun.



Apparently the visit as timely as the principal told me that he wanted to order some supplies today but was not sure where he would get the money for the notebooks.



By the way, if you want to see my TV interview about this event on ABC6 Providence, you can see it here.

Michael Buble - Crazy Love

Yesterday was our 8th year Anniversary and I was so excited as I saw the FedEx man drive off. What could he have brought? Could it be a surprise from my husband? Well, I am happy to say that it was a gift for both of us: The newest album from Michael Buble titled Crazy Love. When One2One Network asked if I wanted to take part in reviewing this album, I jumped at the chance because I love to entertain and great music is key. In addition, my husband and I are fans and we were not disappointed.



Look at those eyes.....oh, sorry. The first thing that popped into my mind when I heard ‘Cry me a River’ was ‘passion’. I honestly felt a little ‘James Bond’ girl listening to it. I think that is a good thing on your Anniversary. Although this album is made up of mostly renditions, his voice and the instrumentals somehow are so fresh. We loved the album and the kids had a blast watching us dance around the house together. I will deifnetly be playing this during dinner parties.

Crazy Love is available online and in stores today (October 9th)!

The tracks on this CD include:
Cry Me A River
All Of Me
Georgia On My Mind
Crazy Love
Haven't Met You Yet*
All I Do Is Dream Of You
Hold On*
Heartache Tonight
You're Nobody Till Somebody Loves You
Baby (You've Got What It Takes)
At This Moment
Stardust
Whatever It Takes (bonus track)*co-written by Michael Bublé

Did you know that Michael Buble has a Facebook Fan Page? Guess what? So do I so join in.

Wordless Wednesday - Smelling the Peppers (grown in our garden)

Organic Duvet & Shams

We are in the midst of trying to de-clutter and simplify our house on a rather small budget. One of the main rooms that needs some TLC is the master bedroom. I decided to purchase a pin-tuck duvet in natural and will use some plain white sheets. This is also a great way to go as I have some paisley sheers from Target on the windows.

I have wanted the crowned cane set from Anthropologie for a long time but this Pin-Tuck version from West Elm is much cheaper (sans button work) and made of organic cotton. Score!

Also, to add some color/texture to the bed, I purchased this romantic pillow from Pier1 today that will be a great compliment to 2 pillows that I will use from the family room. I am loving some of the new pillows from Pier 1.

Camping under the stars and an Owl

For three weeks we have been anticipating a multi-family cookout and overnight camping soiree. We all know how hard it can be to get together with friends as much as we would like so this was a great opportunity to spend some quality time with kids and 'grown-ups'.



The children's ages ranges from 7 months to 5 years old with plenty of grown-ups to join in the fun. It was great to sit back, relax and enjoy the summer weather.



The Food: We started with some bruscetta with sauteed zucchini, olives and a lively tomato mixture. We then had BBQ'd ribs, burgers, hot dogs, vegetarian burgers, quinoa salad, chickpea salad, potato salad and a vegetable platter.

Trucks and cars make every party a hit!

Fresh air-popped popcorn at near midnight. A katydid joined and entertained us.

Smores for dessert! A lovely night with lovely people.

Oh, the owl you ask? The owl was in the tree just above our tent. Imagine our thrill when this creature decided to 'talk' at us at 5:15 am.

Kids Eating Healthy - The Crunch Game

I have many tricks up my sleeve when it comes to getting my youngest to try/eat healthy foods. Being three, he likes to 'act 3' when it comes to everything, eating included. We have found that one way to get him to eat something is to mention not including him.

Who wants to feel left out of a game? No one! So we take advantage of that by playing little games with our food sometimes. One of the kids favorites are 'Who can crunch the loudest?' sometimes titled 'Who can crunch like a horse?' See my example below. At first you think I am letting him simply skip trying the fresh cucumber from our garden but keep watching.



Maybe you can try this with your kids. Best of luck.