SF Parks and Recreation

Living in a world class City I sometimes forget about the small wonderful things at my disposal.  I'm great at taking the little guy for walks in the City, outings at the Cal Academy and De Young, lunches and even shopping downtown. Then there's the social stuff, mommy and me classes at Day One and play dates.  But recently walking by Moscone Park I saw a flyer for free play. After looking into it I realized that our SF Parks and Recreation department offers a wide variety of classes from pottery to kayaking for all ages; tots to seniors.  After checking out the 2011 fall activity guide , I'm impressed. Class prices range across the board and all very affordable. They even offer scholarships, how fabulous is that!

Edward enjoying his first swing.

Then I read SPUR's September issue that addresses the dramatic financial challenges our parks are facing and I quickly got depressed. The possibility of all these great programs, playgrounds and parks being neglected and even closed is so sad. The timing for me couldn't be any worse. It's so cliche but you don't miss it until it's gone and although no park is closing its doors tomorrow SPUR's report is gloomy. Even before entering mommyhood the sounds of children's laughter walking past a park is priceless. Experiencing my own moment of when Edward went on a swing the first time was exciting. I want him and all other kids to enjoy that feeling forever. I don't have a plan to save the parks but I did want to share with you SPUR's findings so that we all can appreciate what we have while it's still at our disposal. So sign up for a class or two. I think that's the best way we can all support the parks.

Love Lots,
Mommy SF

Birth and Baby Fair Roundup

I was hoping to blog live from the San Francisco Birth and Baby Fair but there were to many technical difficulties. I was however able to update via twitter.

But in case you weren't able to make it and are interested here's my brief roundup:

My first time to the fair was last year while we were expecting. I was overwhelmed by the "pop-up" type vendors who were of course friendly but trying to lear me to their booth. Of course that's the purpose of the fair, to sell you goods.  But I tend to get turned-off by that approach and usually go to booths where I'm greeted by a friendly face allowed to peer around and then the inquiring begins.

This year I didn't feel as taunted, maybe since there was no belly? Although the usuals were there; blood cord donation, life insurance and some of the local staples Giggle, Day One, there were several notables worth mentioning:

Pee Wee Patch Kids - This neat mom has 3 kids under the age of 4 and is running this successful business. The clothes are adorable and functional.  Patches are added to the knees of the pants to cushion while your little one explores.  
Senn & Sons - Looking to decorate your little one's room? Look no more, really. Kimberly has such creative pieces of art work that will grow with your child.
Eazz Baby Wraps - Finding affordable, decorative organic patterns was a challenge for me 7 months ago. And now thanks to this cute couple, you mamas don't have to do much searching. Just pick what you like.
Story Teller - The first year is tough. Finding time to put together an album isn't a top priority, so leaving it up to these folks is great. Makes life simpler.
Kerrie LaRosa - Kerrie's really friendly and knows what she's talking about. It was good chatting with her about my guy. She's a parent coach, we all need one.
Animal Instincts Apparel - It's not only for babies but us too! Jamal has these ultra hip urban SF wear that should be a must in your wardrobe!
Citrus Lane - These ladies came up with a cool idea, a gift box for every month of your child's life. They choose the goodies, which are age appropriate and you get to use them, takes the research out of the complicated world of to many options.
Onya Baby - It's another carrier with a cool twist.
SF Yoga - Mama's pre and postnatal classes in SF almost all the time.

Love Lots,
Mommy SF