Whitney Garner wins December's survey!

Whitney Garner was randomly selected as our $25 Gift Certificate Winner to Monograms for All Occasions!

Whitney and many others submitted her answer to: What's the best gift you've ever given or received? Here are some of the fun responses:


"I wrote my husband a poem years ago when we were dating. Little did I know he still carries it with him in his wallet. He made a copy and framed it and put pictures of our kids on the top and bottom of the poem. He wrote me a loving note about how special the poem still is to him, how much he loves me, said look how blessed our lives are in reference to our special kiddies. It is the most special thing he has ever given me!"


"Hands down, the BEST gift was a healthy baby Emma and even healthier (and BIGGER) baby Joseph... who are now 6 and 4.5, respectively!"

"Thanks Kate for an awesome website for Mommies!! The greatest gift I have ever received would have to be my husband! He is my best friend and has provided me with the best two babies any Mom could ever want. He is my anchor and I don't think I could live without him! I have several friends AND family members that have gone through horrible relationships, divorce, and even domestic violence so everyday I count my blessings and he is first on my list!"

"I'm sure I should put the birth of my children or world peace, but I'm going to be completely honest...for my 30th birthday (I was pregnant with my 2nd child), my husband surprised me with a trip to New York to see a Broadway Play, eat a wonderful dinner and go and see Katie Couric's last day on the Today Show (I was a big fan). Then he threw in a trip to the diamond district and surprised me with trading in my old diamond for a bright and shiny new one! I felt like a princess that weekend!"

"I got marred at 20 and my husband Wayne and I had a little son during that first year. Roger was born several months early and having complications he died. I soon got pregnant again, but too soon and I miscarried. March 1975 I got pregnant again and you can only imagine I was so very nervous. God was there with us and our son, Scott was born December 18th 1975. Thirty-three years ago today. Scott is my most precious gift and I brought him home on my twenty-second birthday. "

"I am a collector of holiday snow globes and one year my middle child-Jack made a snow globe in his pre-k class. It was the most amazing gift and was so cleaver....the inside of the globe had a tiny picture of him cut out like an ornament & was hanging on a white painted twig. I cried Xmas morning! I love it!"

"I have been blessed with so many gift in life, but the greatest by far is my daughter. No material gift has ever matched the joy she has given me."

"The best gift I've ever received would have to be ... A violin ... my (then) boyfriend, now husband, totally surprised me by fulfilling a childhood dream of mine of learning to play the violin. He chose a beautiful hand-crafted violin that far exceeded my expectations! He even arranged for lessons and everything! His unexpected gift left me speechless and knowing without a doubt that he was the one!"

"We have had a tragic loss, our daughter Annabelle died on May 4th, 2005. I then had trouble getting pregnant for about a year and went through all kinds of fertility. After five months of failed IUI's, we took a break from it all. We conceived on our own and found out about the pregnancy on sweet Annabelle's birthday (10-13)! Brady (now 18 mos.) was my gift from her, I am sure of it! Often I thank her for sending him to me, I can tell she hand picked him just for us!Love, Meredyth Bryant"

"The best gift I ever received was a bigger home! We moved from a little 1500 sq.ft. house in an iffy neighborhood in south FL to a beautiful 2600 sq. ft. home on over an acre in the woods in western Chesterfield county. The change in myself and my family is priceless! It was all possible because my husband knew how much I wanted to leave FL. so he went to his boss and asked for a transfer because he wanted to make me happy. I love that man!"

"For Mother's day one year my youngest daughter Rachel saved all her candy she got for her "being good all week" gift on Fridays. (she was in 3rd grade, she is now 12) the thing is, she has heard me say for year and year how much i love red skittles, so my bag I received that year was her saving of about 5 weeks worth of candy, ALL RED, red skittles, red m&m's, red gum, all red candy in a lil bag with a red bow. It was the best gift I ever got."

"The greatest gift I ever received was the Christmas of 2005. I had just left my very abusive ex husband and me and my kids had to leave almost everything behind. So, I know Christmas would be very tight because all the months leading till XMAS I missed alot of work running back and forth to court trying to keep us safe from him and getting full custody of my kid. Well by the time Christmas rolled around i was having a hard enough time putting groceries in the house let alone even think about . . .(end of message not received)"

"The greatest GIFTS I ever received are my 2 precious daughters from China. You see, in order for me to become a Mom, 2 other Moms had to make the ultimate sacrifice: give their baby daughters to the great unknown; allowing them a chance at a better life. Those gifts enabled me to receive the greatest gift of all: the gift of motherhood. I think of them & thank them every day for this incredible gift of life and for allowing me to experience what they can never know: these 2 beautiful daughters!"

"My 8 year daughter gave me a blanket she made herself. That was the best gift ever.
The best gift I have received was twofold today. 1st, my brother e-mailed me to tell me his cancer has NOT returned and 2nd, my son, injured at work tells me his bad days are getting much less in number and his good days are getting to be more. Life is good.
The greatest gift I even got was a cedar chest that my husband bought (and surprised me with) to hold all of my memories. Inside the chest was a Mork and Mindy game that he managed to find on e-bay. We played that silly game on the very first night we met. It was a gift of memories past and memories yet to be had."

Stacy Hawkins Adams NEW BOOK!

You're Invited!

Please join Stacy Hawkins Adams at the

Book Release Party

for

The Someday List

the first book in her new fiction series

(Book Price: $12.99)


Friday, Jan. 9
6:30 to 9 p.m.
Barnes & Noble - Libbie Place
5501 West Broad Street
Richmond, Virginia
(804) 282-0781

Bring your book club members, women's ministry participants or best girlfriends and get your autographed copy of the new novel.
Stacy and her special guests will share from their "someday lists" and offer tips on how to create your own.

A portion of the proceeds from the sales of Stacy's books will be donated to ART 180, a Richmond nonprofit that provides underprivileged children with opportunities to express themselves through various forms of art.
Start your New Year off right and be there

Eat too much yesterday? Yeah, us, too. That's why we're doin the Monument 10K as a team!

We're gonna set this goal. I'm not a runner, never have been, but I'd love for you try this with myself and some RichmondMom.com friends!

You don't need to be a mom. We'll donate $10 to the Massey Cancer Center for anyone who joins!

Please register at: https://www.raceit.com/register/?event=284 We registered in "Wave VC" 76-90 minutes (although we hope to be faster!)We'll be training with a combined

RichmondMom.com-Stroller Strides team, and will send information on training for any of you wishing to join us!

New Lyrics: "If I were a boy"

Thought this was just great: http://www.mommytrackd.com/beyonce-boy

"I love your site. I was reading the Richmondmom.com blog spot for funny/silly moments and thought I would share this one:

My daughter saw the Peter Pan movie on DVD and was fascinated with the scene where all the fairies are saved from fading away. Later that day, I walked past her room while she was in "quiet time" and heard her saying over and over "I do, I do, I do believe in fairies"!!

And just in case you might think she is an angel: Leslie was 2 and standing in line with her daddy at the store. He held up one of the strawberry candles he was buying and asked her what it smelled like. She said at the top of her lungs "it smells like poop"!!! Everybody in line started laughing. I still burn this candle and it does not smell like poop! However the cat box does, which is why I burn the candles;)"---Christina, Henrico

Got a funny one from your big kid or little one? Share 'em: kate@richmondmom.com

Amy Strite: December's Richmondmom.com Rock Star

Why do we like Amy Strite so much? Simply put, she helps kids all over Richmond reach their potential with an amazing organization called CHIP of Greater Richmond: Children's Health Involving Parents.

Amy works extensively with those in the private and public sector in collaborative effort to assess current and changing need, evaluate the effectiveness of service delivery, and plan for appropriate responses to community need. With her passionate team, Amy ensures that CHIP serves hundreds of families in the Richmond area, maximizing their potential through increased medical care for children and family support services. A full list of outcomes is available on the CHIP site.

A part from her professional positions, Amy has served the community in a variety of ways including sitting on the boards of The NAMES Project Central Virginia, Virginia Supportive Housing, and The National Association of Social Workers-Virginia Chapter. WOW. That's giving.

Know a Rockstar? Tell us about her! She may be our next feature.

Christmas present for mom! A girls' weekend getaway!

My husband and I spent a night at the Jefferson in honor of our 10th wedding anniversary (six months after the fact, but that's another story)--it rocked! While there, we saw two ladies on a "Girls' Weekend Out" and asked them about it: They replied with one word "Heavenly!"

The Jefferson has these ideas and some other cool ones at:
http://www.jeffersonhotel.com/packages.aspx

Check out the Jefferson's Holiday Newsletter:
http://www.jeffersonhotel.com/Holiday/index.aspx, in the shopping section of the newsletter you'll find the e-boutique, The Salon at The Jefferson, Blooms at The Jefferson and Gator's Gifts - all really great places for you to pamper yourselves with a holiday treat or find a really special gift.

The 12 Days of Unemployment at Christmas

For all of my fellow laid-off, hard working Americans, and your families, a much-needed chuckle for the holidays! All the best!

On the first day of Unemployment at Christmas, my (former) manager gave to me:

A severance letter personalized for me.

Two minutes of sheer panic, and a severance letter personalized for me.

Three letters about Cobra, two minutes of sheer panic, and a severance letter personalized for me.

Four calling recruiters, three letters about Cobra, two minutes of sheer panic, and a severance letter personalized for me.

Five turn-your-gold-into-cash emails (under consideration), four calling recruiters, three letters about Cobra, two minutes of sheer panic, and a severance letter personalized for me.

Six sympathetic glances, five turn-your-gold-into-cash emails (under consideration), four calling recruiters, three letters about Cobra, two minutes of sheer panic, and a severance letter personalized for me.

Seven jobs on Monster, six sympathetic glances, five turn-your-gold-into-cash emails (under consideration), four calling recruiters, three letters about Cobra, two minutes of sheer panic, and a severance letter personalized for me.

Eight references requested, seven jobs on Monster, six sympathetic glances, five turn-your-gold-into-cash emails (under consideration), four calling recruiters, three letters about Cobra, two minutes of sheer panic, and a severance letter personalized for me.

Nine (confusing) unemployment letters sendin’, eight references requested, seven jobs on Monster, six sympathetic glances, five turn-your-gold-into-cash emails (under consideration), four calling recruiters, three letters about Cobra, two minutes of sheer panic, and a severance letter personalized for me.

Ten bills a-heaping, nine (confusing) unemployment letters sendin’, eight references requested, seven jobs on Monster, six sympathetic glances, five turn-your-gold-into-cash emails (under consideration), four calling recruiters, three letters about Cobra, two minutes of sheer panic, and a severance letter personalized for me.

Eleven sketchy work-at-home offers (also under consideration), ten bills a-heaping, nine (confusing) unemployment letters sendin’, eight references requested, seven jobs on Monster, six sympathetic glances, five turn-your-gold-into-cash emails (under consideration), four calling recruiters, three letters about Cobra, two minutes of sheer panic, and a severance letter personalized for me.

Twelve resume versions, eleven sketchy work-at-home offers (also under consideration), ten bills a-heaping, nine (confusing) unemployment letters sendin’, eight references requested, seven jobs on Monster, six sympathetic glances, five turn-your-gold-into-cash emails (under consideration), four calling recruiters, three letters about Cobra, two minutes of sheer panic, and a severance letter personalized for me.

Cool Tabitha Geary stuff for the holidays!

SPECIAL PRICES FOR RICHMONDMOM.COM READERS BELOW!

All orders must be in by 12/15 to receive in time for Christmas and all customers must mention this ad on Richmondmom.com in order to receive the special pricing: http://www.tabithageary.com/

Can you believe this: Free gift wrapping on Thursday nights from 6-8 at the showroom. Not just Tabitha Geary gifts--all your stuff!

*Bag Tags and Christmas Ornaments-- 1 for $20 or 3 for $50
*16 x 16 Canvas (1 image)-- $85
*24 pg (12pgs front/back; max 50 images) softbook -- $50
*Dry Erase board (1 image and text)-- $35
*52 week/52 picture Dayplanner-- $60/ $50 for additional copies

MONOGRAMS FOR ALL OCCASIONS: The ultimate gift for moms, teachers, friends & kids!

Save 10% on GIFTS at Monograms For All Occasions, Inc.
Only through 12/8/08!*

*Richmondmom.com in REMARKS section.

$5.95 shipping-on EVERYTHING.

Richmondmom.com readers looove to shop so we’ve got a maven for you to meet: Jennifer Mosley loves all things perky, preppy, and personalized. So much so that she launched a business so that others can share in the fun.

Monograms For All Occasions, Inc. is THE place to shop this holiday. A look at the company’s website will only show you a portion of the hundreds of great gift ideas just in time for the holidays.

To see all that this creative Richmond mom and her company have to offer, stop by the store located at 5324 Twin Hickory Road, Suite 102 in Hickory Corner, off Nuckols Road in Glen Allen. Store hours vary, but Jennifer can usually meet for appointments within 1-2 hours of your call. Call Jennifer at (804) 314-4269 for all of your monogramming, embroidering and personalization needs and gift ideas.

A few of Richmondmom.com’s fave picks from Jennifer’s stash:

for the woman who has just-about-everything: embroidered bath wraps (just $34.00) with matching slippers (only $19.95), makeup bags and timeless, elegant monogrammed silverware
· monogrammed car magnets, mouse pads, and mailbox covers
· lunch bags & backpacks personalized with your kids' names
· bright & fun personalized mouse pads and personalized stationery
· totes as low as $14.95 which includes personalization and your choice of ribbon
· stamps & embossers with your girlfriend's name or the whole family's name
· personalized wine glasses for those holiday get togethers and the very popular Tervis Tumblers monogrammed with your initials!
· pillowcases for the kid who loves to see their name in print
· the most popular monogrammed estate flags (on sale now for just $34.00) and garden flags (also on sale for only $12.90) with your family’s last name initial, with the trendiest flag stands on display at the store
· for the golfer in your life: personalized embroidered golf towels available in pink, green, blue and black for only $17.95!
· for the posh baby: monogrammed booties (just $19.95!) and diaper covers (just $13.95!)
· design your own personalized stickers for gift labels (30 for $18.95), personalized double-sided placemats for adults and children (only $18.00)
· new to the store: personalized and embroidered memo boards (pick from our fabrics or bring your own!)
· monogrammed hair bands & hair bows, all this and more at the store!

Monograms For All Occasions, Inc. located in Twin Hickory, near the Short Pump Town Center boasts a bountiful buffet of monogrammed, personalized and embroidered gifts for women and children plus a host of other kitschy décor that says “I took the time to find you a truly personal gift!”
This fabulous biz offers just about anything you can think of, with initials to boot! Plus, if you want to personalize something you already own, Jennifer will also embroider most customers’ previously purchased items (Christmas stockings, backpacks, aprons etc.) for usually no more than $10.00, but she has so much to offer that there’s little need to shop elsewhere. But, don’t just take our word for it. The reviews from nationwide customers prove that this Richmond mom is the person Santa is counting on to fill his sleigh.
.
*Place Richmondmom.com in the “remarks” section of your online order for 10% off. 10% off in-store, too! Just mention Richmondmom.com.

What to do with the fam this month in Richmond, VA

• With more than 500,000 lights, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden's GardenFest of Lights offers a magical experience through Jan. 12.


• Kick off the holiday season in Henrico Dec. 2 at Richmond International Raceway's 5th Annual Community Tree Lighting.


• Shop till you drop at the Bizarre Bazaar's 33rd Christmas Collection with more than 500 exhibitors at the Richmond Raceway Complex Dec. 4-7.


• Join Santa Claus downtown at the James Center to kick off the holidays with live music, a carousel and holiday lights Dec. 5 at the Grand Illumination.

Richmond parents desperately seeking baby to make their life complete!

Richmond, VA native Lauren Hall has been through every fertility treatment available, and after exhausting her options, is seeking to adopt an infant with her loving husband. They are seeking a private adoption through people like you!

If you know of someone who is expecting who is considering adoption, PLEASE contact Lauren directly at: laurenhall@comcast.net. Help make their dream of parenthood come true!

Kids Layne: The Road to Upscale Resale of Children's Items!

What: Kids Layne is an upscale children's consignment and overstock sale featuring ONLY top of the line labels from exclusive boutiques.

Our next sale is February 6-8, 2009

What’s New in 2009:
· Kids Layne will be selling overstocks from some favorite labels.
· We are offering year round clothing so that you can have access to even more clothing and are able to buy ahead for future seasons.
· We are branching out into new product arenas and will be accepting both overstocks and consigned high end strollers, Kettler tricycles, bedding and whole room decor (example: room sets that include bedding and artwork).
· For Extra Busy Moms: We are offering a new service where we will pick up your items, enter them on an inventory sheet, and prepare them for the sale

· We offer several options to make shoppers eligible to attend the presale on Friday Feb 6:
a.) Consign with us. Go to http://www.kidslayne.com/ to find out how to consign.
b.) Forward our flyer-to friends, your PTA or preschool. Contact us at kidslaynebiz@comcast.net to find out what to do.
c.) Post our flyer. Again, contact us at kidslaynebiz@comcast.net

Brands include: Chez Ami, Daisies and Doodlebugs, Florence Eiseman, Gymboree, Lily Pulitzer, Ragsland, Silly Goose, Sweet Potatoes, Vive La Fete, and Zutano just to name a few

Where: Flexible Solutions Office Building 1518 Willow Lawn Drive Richmond, VA 23233

When: February 6-8, 2009

Why: We stock only the finest labels in children's clothing and other items so that you do not have to dig through mounds of clothes like at other consignment sales looking for the best items. Because we stock only the best labels, the hard work has already been done. For parents looking to recoup some of their investment on those special pieces that their child has outgrown, then there is no better place to consign than at Kids Layne consignment sale.

For more information: Go to http://www.kidslayne.com/ or call Jennifer Kaufman at 804.986.4255

RichmondMom.com readers are thankful for. . .

Tell us and earn a chance to WIN a $25 gift certificate to one of our partners:

http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e2efvdnjfni994iw/start

(Note: all comments are anonymous)

Here's what other Richmonders have told us:

• "My Daughter will not walk until she is four. My daughter can not talk and will not for years. My daughter has so many appointments every week that are so draining (for her). My daughter can not go many places without it being very hard (on her). My daughter has Cerebral Palsy and I am SO THANKFUL to have her, she is the best thing in my life."

• "I'm thankful for the health of my family and unemployment benefits."

• "I am thankful that I have legs that are strong enough to get me through my third marathon. I also am so thankful for the wonderful friends I have made during marathon training. Their tremendous support and encouragement keep me going even when my legs tell me to stop. Training for a marathon is such an awarding and unique experience, and I am so thankful that I have had this amazing experience and have had the opportunity to meet so many fantastic people."

• "My wonderful son. Having a home and being able to provide for my family."

• "I am thankful for my parents and my siblings who are always there for me. I am thankful for my health and strength. I am thankful for my healthy and sharp grandmother who is still able to cheer on her great-granddaughter at a 3 hour soccer tournament! I am thankful to have a job I enjoy. I am thankful for my friends and family who support me no matter what. Most of all, I'm thankful for my daughter who inspires and amazes me everyday!"
  

The Children’s Home Society of Virginia is offering a free orientation on Dec. 16 for people interested in learning more about adopting children from foster care. The event will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Richmond office of Children’s Home Society, 4200 Fitzhugh Ave.

Participants will learn about the steps to adopt and can review photos of children awaiting a permanent home. For details, call (804) 353-0191 or visit http://www.chsva.org/.

There are nearly 1,600 children waiting to be adopted in Virginia. Most are living with foster families and attend public schools. All have risky futures without a permanent family.

Founded in 1900, Children’s Home Society of Virginia is a non-profit, licensed adoption agency that has placed more than 12,500 children in new homes. The agency’s mission is to find permanent, loving homes for all children and to provide counseling to birth and adoptive families.

Good Health Seminar-win Pilates lessons! 11/20

Progress Physical Therapy Staff Present: Good Nutrition for Women, from Childhood to Adulthood!

11/20/08, 10:00am

Progress Physical Therapy

5300 Hickory Park Drive

RSVP: 804.270-7754

http://www.progressphysicaltherapy.com/

Dr. Christa Galvin-Cox

Enter for a chance to win 4 Pilates classes!

Richmond Moms are thankful for. . .

What are you thankful for?

All we hear about is falling stocks, lost jobs, tight times. Surely there is more to life! Tell us. One respondent will be chosen at random for a $25 gift certificate to one of Richmondmom.com's partners. You may also answer anonymously if you wish: http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e2efvdnjfni994iw/start

Here's what readers are telling us:

"I am thankful I have my health, 2 healthy kids, a healthy husband, 2 healthy cats a wonderful new Beagle!! I am also thankful that I still have a job right now. It may not be a great job, but it's still a job!"


"My Daughter will not walk until she is four. My daughter can not talk and will not for years. My daughter has so many appointments every week that are so draining (for her). My daughter can not go many places without it being very hard (on her). My daughter has Cerebral Palsey and I am SO THANKFUL to have her, she is the best thing in my life."


"I am thankful for my parents and my siblings who are always there for me. I am thankful for my health and strength. I am thankful for my healthy and sharp grandmother who is still able to cheer on her great-granddaughter at a 3 hour soccer tournament! I am thankful to have a job I enjoy. I am thankful for my friends and family who support me no matter what. Most of all, I'm thankful for my daughter who inspires and amazes me everyday!"


"I'm thankful for washing machines, dishwashers, microwaves, hairdryers, indoor plumbing, and all the other "machines" that make my life as a mom easier! Seriously, I am WAY thankful for my family. Period."


"I am thankful for that little voice that ask me to snuggle with her one more time before I start my crazy day."


"Of course I a thankful for my wonderful husband,my beautiful two boys, family and friends...But I am also truly thankful for other mom's who relate to the frustrations of being a mom and appreciate getting away from my beautiful boys to have a little "ME" time.:)"

Adoption: A grafted tree. Celebrate National Adoption Month!

Author: Nicole Unice (Richmond mom-of-three, dreamer, doer.)

My parents had always talked about adopting. Their desire sprung from their belief in the call to love all of God’s children, especially the forgotten. We were already a big family: with an 8, 6, and 5 year old my parents certainly didn’t need more activity! But the dream of adopting persisted. Even though they pursued international adoption, obstacles blocked their way for years, both financial and logistical. Just as they were about to give up, a strange twist of events: my parents received an unexpected inheritance check that covered the cost of international adoption and a call from an orphanage in Korea—they had just picked up an abandoned toddler and we were a match for placement. On that day, our family was “expecting”; instead of an ultrasound we had a grainy photo from a Korean orphanage.
His delivery took place in the JFK airport one spring evening in April. I shivered with excitement at the airport gate, surrounded by the sights and sounds of people and change. My little brother and I pressed our toes, our bellies, our palms and our noses against the cold glass window, peering out into the night sky, straining to be the first to herald the appearance of the plane that carried our new baby brother.
At long last, the plane lights, and then the mechanical stork appeared. We squealed with joy, and waited those last agonizing moments for the hanger door to open and the babies to be paraded in; we were not the only family adding to our number that night. In they came, held in the arms of Korean women caretakers that hardly seemed bigger than the children themselves. As babies transformed from orphans to sons and daughters, tears and laughter and gut-level joy filled the air. On April 24, 1984, our family tree grafted on a new branch, in the form of a round-faced, brown-eyed Korean baby boy named Stevie.
The next few days were not unlike a newborn baby coming home from the hospital. He ate, he slept, and he clung to our mom. But some things were different. He spoke words in Korean…Oma, Apba. He looked shocked. Like a frightened and wounded animal, he would sometimes fold over on himself and even bite. He was terrified of water.
Becoming an adoptive family changed our family tree. Gardeners graft trees together, particularly fruit trees, to create new fruit and to strengthen the roots of the existing tree. The roots of one tree nourish the bud of another, creating something new in the process. To be an adoptive family is to be the roots for a tender bud. But the original tree must be cut in order to allow the new bud to join. Adding to our family wasn’t easy. Money was tight. Dynamics changed and created strain. Faith was tested. But like only family can, we came together, learning to practice grace with one another in the midst of hardship.
More than twenty years later, after a good meal with family, Stevie gets up from his seat and makes a silent pilgrimage around the table. Stopping in front of each place, he reaches down for a bear hug. Maybe that comes from deep within, from the places in him that remember being cold, and hungry, and alone. I don’t think of my family as an adoptive family. I think of my family as one tree. Two very different branches grafted together, creating something entirely unique, beautiful in its own way--scars, roots and all.

Since 1993, the number of international adoptions in the U.S. has jumped 300 percent, from just over 7,000 to 21,616 in 2003. For more information on adoption, please visit www.adoption.com.

Tabitha Geary rocks because. . .

Everyone is talking about her. This is no scrap-booking, photo-taping, ordinary gal. Her products are memorable and will stick with you for a lifetime (some literally!)

Tabitha Geary is an entrepreneur, a mother-of-five, and her work has been featured by Entrepreneur Magazine, Lifetime Television, Mom Talk Radio, Work Magazine and other national and local outlets.

And, if that just wasn't enough, she's going to Air on Martha Stewart this month. As my mom would say, "For Pete's Sake, that's amazing!"

We think she's fab. And it just so happens there's an open house where you cannot buy a thing but you can view her work:

Sunday, November 16th, 2-4pm

Tabitha Geary Showroom, 506 Libbie Avenue

rsvp Jillslemon@hotmail.com or 804.317.4399

www.tabithageary.com

Great Ladies' and Kids' Stuff-Saturday, 11/15/08

Bargain Boutique
ONE DAY SALE!
Where moms and kids will be
Well Dressed for Less!

Saturday, November 15th
9 AM until 4 PM
Mechanicsville Hampton Inn
7433 Bell Creek Road
Mechanicsville, VA 23111

New and like new women's and kid's clothes, shoes & accessories.

Boys and Girls - Infant to Pre-teen (including Slim, Plus & Husky)
Talbot’s Kids – POLO – Tommy Hilfiger – Ltd Too – The Place – Hartstrings – Nautica - Gymboree – GAP – Old Navy
– L.L. Bean –Lands End…and more!

Women’s Clothing - Misses, Petites, Plus size and Maternity (size 0 to 3X)
Talbot’s – Ann Taylor – LOFT – J. Crew - American Eagle – CHICO’S - Aeropostale - Polo Ralph Lauren – Eddie Bauer –
J. Crew - The Gap – Old Navy – L.L. Bean – Banana Republic – Lands End – J. Jill – Coldwater Creek – Lane Bryant…and more!
MATERNITY (x-small to 3X): Motherhood – Mimi - Duo –The Gap - Old Navy – In Due Time – Oh Baby! – Liz Lange

shoes…purses…jewelry…tights…socks…scarves…hair bows…hats…gloves

For more information contact:
Nicole Fore at 804-310-0678 or http://mail.richmondmom.com/cgi-bin/compose.exe?id=01d887fec54c02034f0db6c3881247978118&new=&xsl=compose.xsl&to=bargain_boutique@comcast.net
Christy Hassell at 804-240-1542 or Sarah Webster at 804-290-0283

Rock Star Momma in town-11/19/08

Skye Hoppus, wife of Mark Hoppus from blink 182, will be coming to It’s Hip to be Round, the clothing and supplies store for mommas-to-be, for a meet and greet, book signing, and sharing her clothing line.

There will also be yummy drinks and catering by local Carytown restaurants as well as prizes and give-aways at the event!


Who: Skye Hoppus - Owner of Childish Clothing and author of Rock Star Momma

What: Meet and greet, Book signing, and Hip items from the Childish Clothing collection

Where: It’s Hip to be Round, 3463 West Cary Street, Richmond, VA

When: November 19th
5:00-8:00pm

Special Events at HalfPints

Special Events! Mark you calendars...

November 22nd, Our fabulous Santa will be with us for pictures by our favorite photographer, Missy Bane...Call for your appointment 364-4202

Silhouettes by Blane Cope November 28th and 29th Call for appointment 364-4202

You voted. . .Michelle Obama will be the mama in the White House

No matter how you voted (53% of you said Obama will win), you had something to say:

"Next Leader will be McCain! Obama has gone too Hollywood"

"At this point...I'm just ready for November 4th!!!"

"Wonderful! An African American and women!"

"Visit http://ivotevalues.com/ to see the differences"

"I think Sarah Palin is just fabulous"

Please get out there and vote and CONGRATS to Kelly McAdams who won a 5807 Gift Certificate!

Gotta get rid of kids' stuff? need some stuff?

The Clothesline
Children’s Consignment
Holiday Sale

Friday and Saturday November 21-22, 2008

Woodmont Recreation Center
2334 Traymore Road
Richmond 23235

For the Holiday Sale we will accept gently used toys, games, books, videos/DVDs, ride-on toys, outdoor toys (sandboxes, slides, etc.), furniture, large equipment (strollers, backpacks, etc.) holiday wear (any brand), and boutique fall/winter clothing (please see list of accepted brands).

More info? http://www.theclothesline.biz/

Are you a desperate mom! You could be on TV!

Hannah Keeley's new PBS show was just picked up to go national in the spring!

Check out her casting call for desperate moms THIS week!!!!!!!!! You could work with Hannah who is right here in Richmond! Hannah's a really fun and amazing mom we've featured on Richmondmom.com in the past--check her out!

Here's the link:
http://www.hannahkeeley.com/

Madagascar 2 live at the Science Museum Imax, 11/7!

EXPERIENCE THE GREATEST ESCAPE IN IMAX!

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa: The IMAX Experience to open on Friday, Nov. 7,
at the Science Museum of Virginia’s Ethyl IMAX®DOME

Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa opens at the Science Museum of Virginia’s Ethyl IMAX®DOME on November 7th.

For information on tickets and showtimes, please call 804-864-1400 or 800-659-1727 or visit the website at http://www.smv.org/. Tickets to see Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa: The IMAX Experience are $10. Advance tickets are available at the guest services desk, by calling 804-864-1400 or 800-659-1727 or online at http://www.smv.org/. VISA and MasterCard are accepted.

Thisbe's Promise: A Book to honor memory of two children

Laurian Scott, sister-in-law of Richmond mom Lacey Sinnot, will be in town Wednesday, November 5th and Thursday, November 6th signing her children's picture book, Thisbe's Promise.

If you haven't heard about it, and would like to come, you can read all about the book at http://www.etspublishing.com/. A portion of the proceeds from the book goes to aid the mission of The Olive Branch Fund: A Thisbe and Noah Scott Legacy .

To learn more about this fund and their fight to find a cure for motor neuron diseases, check out http://www.theolivebranchfund.org/.

The book is a beautiful tribute to the unbreakable bond between a mother and her child and will be a great interactive read with your children. It would also make a great gift. The following are the address and times for the signings:

The Sinnott’s
6406 Roselawn Rd - 23226
(804) 288-2218
Wed, November 5th: 5:00-7:00 p.m., wine and cheese – no children please
Thurs, November 6th: 9:30-11:30 a.m. – no children please

Should you not be able to drop by at one of these times, please let Lacey Sinnot know in advance by calling the number above, and she will be happy to set aside one of these special books for you. The books are $17.00 each.

Sales Associate / Customer Service
Massage Envy – Short Pump

Duties include:

• Providing excellent service to members/guests by answering phone calls, setting appointments, greeting members/ guests upon arrival

• Offering and Selling memberships for our great massage Wellness Program
  • Assists in maintaining professional front desk and reception area.

• Assists in administrative tasks including filing, member folder maintenance, and data entry of client records and surveys.
• Assists in maintaining cleanliness of therapy rooms, common areas and store room, & various duties as assigned by Clinic Management.

Experience:

• Customer service and sales experience preferred.

• Ability to effectively communicate with members/ guests on membership benefits, and clinic policies and procedures.

• Ability to work cohesively with others in a fun and fast paced environment. • Must be customer service oriented and able to communicate effectively with clients, clinic management and sales staff.

• Able to work flexible days and hours

Benefits:

• Hourly wage plus commission and bonuses.

• Employee massages at reduced cost.

• Employment growth opportunities.

For additional information email resume or questions to Chris Hughes at chughes@massageenvy.com

Your votes are rollin in. . . it's neck and neck on 10/24/08

Obama is in the lead with 52%, McCain close behind at 48%:

"If something happened to McCain or Obama would you want Palin as President or Biden?"

"I cannot imagine what it would be like if something were to happen to McCain, and being run by Sarah Palin. This isn't the PTA."

"McCain doesn't impress me as being a great leader. And I wonder if "Joe Six-Pack/Hockey Mom" Palin slipped into Saks during her visit here {in Richmond}?"

"The next president may replace 2 Supreme Court justices. I'm a proponent of choice and civil rights - would hate to see an ultraconservative court."

send us YOUR comments: http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e2dlx1tufm3h5lnv/start

Cool moms making big bucks with web businesses

A blogger, a dressmaker, and more. . .cool ladies earn livings online http://lohud.com/article/20081020/LIFESTYLE01/810200314/-1/SPORTS

Flight Night-Aviation Museum-Halloween Night!

*Take a hayride pulled by a vehicle designed to tow planes.

*Climb into a yellow Piper Cub and take the controls for a pretend flight.

*Make and fly a paper bat. Create your own UFO. Go on a scavenger hunt.

*Come in costume and get your picture taken in front of a Vietnam-era A-4 Skyhawk light attack bomber.

*Decorate a candy bag to take home all your treats.

It’s all at Flight Night at the Virginia Aviation Museum on Friday, Oct. 31, 6-8 p.m.

“If you’re looking for a safe, family friendly event, have we got a party for you,” says Virginia Aviation Museum Director Mike Boehme. “Our Flight Night is filled with fun things aimed at the kids. We have a few scary activities, but you’ll notice our name is Flight Night, not Fright Night. A good time will be had by all.”

Visit the Kids Ready Room and ride the pedal planes. Get fake tattoos. Make a scary necklace. Were those brains you just felt? Nope, it was just squishy spaghetti in a seasonal game. If you think you have what it takes to be a pilot, test your skills at one of the flight simulators.

Flight Night is $6 per person. For museum information call (804) 236-3622 or visit http://www.vam.smv.org/. The Virginia Aviation Museum is open Monday-Saturday, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., and Sunday, noon-5 p.m. The Virginia Aviation Museum is at 5701 Huntsman Road, Richmond International Airport.

More comments from Richmond moms on the election!

"Although I believe each has their faults, I have to vote my conscience. McCain shares my same moral beliefs."

"I am voting for Obama because I feel like his platforms as they relates to education,war,and the national debt. He is able to UNITE the USA."

"I would never vote for a socialist. or for anyone lacking enough experience to be pres."

"I loath most Republican ways. I don't see McCain giving the USA the guidance we need. Obama/Biden are the most reasonable choice to me. OBAMA-BIDEN 08'"

"We will be voting for the Obama/Biden ticket, I cannot imagine what a gallon of gas or milk would cost in the next 4yrs if McCain/Palin succeed!"

"McCain has more experience. I have a son In the Navy and hate to think what would happen if Obama was to be elected.

"I feel like I am a John McCcain girl in a Barack Obama world!"

"Always been a Democrat and Obama supporter, but now I am floored by the way that McCain and Palin are running their campaign. Disgusting!"

VOTE NOW & GET A CHANCE TO WIN A $25 GIFT CERTIFICATE FROM OUR PARTNERS!
http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e2dlx1tufm3h5lnv/start

Richmond moms are voting. . .

OK ladies--the votes are rolling in.& we're nothin' like the national polls . .as of today our stats are:

McCain-62%

Obama-38%

here's what you're sayin':

• 
  Obama is the only candidate focusing on ISSUES, not personality assaults-McCain distracts everyone with character attacks,&not answering questions!
  Anonymous


• McCain has the experience, I'm alittle surprised at his Vice President choice, however I think she adds alot to his campaign


• If anyone can convince me that a vote for Obama doesn't represent a vote for dismantling our free-market system, convince me that his shady "friends"


• Obama seems to be ready to handle issues with finesse not force


• I don't think Obama has any experience for this job & I feel he is more a pop star that a political candidate. And, I love McCain's running mate Palin


• Although I believe each has their faults, I have to vote my conscience. McCain shares my same moral beliefs.


• I am voting for Obama because I feel like his platforms as they relates to education,war,and the national debt. He is able to UNITE the USA.


• I would never vote for a socialist. or for anyone lacking enough experience to be pres.


• I'll vote for McCain even though I am not impressed with Sara Palin. He is the safer of the two choices.

Keep voting and get a chance to win a $25 gift certificate from one of our partners! http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e2dlx1tufm3h5lnv/start

Carseat Safety

Poor safety ratings for 13 booster seatsReview finds several products that don't position kids to fit their seat belts

The Associated Pressupdated 9:01 a.m. ET, Wed., Oct. 1, 2008WASHINGTON - Several car booster seats do a poor job of positioning children to fit in their seat belts, according to a review by the insurance industry and researchers.

-The Virginia-based Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute found Wednesday that 13 booster seats don't put children in the best position to be protected in a crash.

-The Institute, which conducts crash tests of new vehicles, did not recommend: Compass B505, Compass B510, Cosco/Dorel Traveler, Evenflo Big Kid Confidence, Safety Angel Ride Ryte, Cosco/Dorel Alpha Omega, Cosco/Dorel (Eddie Bauer) Summit, Cosco Highback Booster, Dorel/Safety 1st (Eddie Bauer) Prospect, Evenflo Chase Comfort Touch, Evenflo Generations, Graco CarGo Zephyr, and Safety 1st/Dorel Intera.IIHS President Adrian Lund said the 13 boosters "may increase restraint use by making children more comfortable, but they don't position belts for optimal protection."Child seat manufacturers said their products meet and exceed federal regulations. Dorel Juvenile Group said it "welcomes the opportunity to review the evaluation conducted by the IIHS."Graco Children's Products said in a statement that "safety is always a top priority and nothing is more important than the well-being of the children who use our products."

It was the first time the Institute issued evaluations for booster seats. Lund said they chose not to review crash protection because the seats simply elevate children so lap and shoulder belts are well-positioned to restrain them.Booster seats are typically used by children between the ages of 4 and 8. The seat belt is meant to be routed across a child's lower hips and mid-shoulders instead of the abdomen because the liver and spleen are more vulnerable to injuries.Russ Rader, an IIHS spokesman, said two of the seats not recommended by the Institute, the Costco Highback Booster and the Safety 1st/Dorel Intera, had been discontinued. The IIHS evaluated 41 seats that represented a majority of the market when the evaluations were conducted in the summer of 2007. Evaluations for all the seats are available on their Web site.

Institute also names 'best bets'
-The IIHS called 10 seats "best bets," meaning they were most likely to correctly position seat belts. They include: Combi Kobuk, Fisher-Price Safe Voyage (with plastic clip), Graco TurboBooster, Britax Monarch, Britax Parkway, Fisher-Price Safe Voyage (highback), LaRoche Bros. Teddy Bear, Recaro Young Style, Volvo booster cushion and Safeguard Go when it's used as a backless booster.

-Five seats were named "good bets" to provide acceptable belt fit. They include: highbacks Combi Kobuk, Graco TurboBooster and Safety Angel Ride Ryte, and combinations Recaro Young Sport and Safety 1st/Dorel Apex 65, when used as highbacks.Dr. Kristy Arbogast, who researches child passenger safety issues at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, said parents should not interpret the evaluations to mean that poorly rated seats are not effective."The biggest disservice this would do is to encourage people to move out of booster seats because we know they're an effective restraint, we know they reduce the risk of injury and the risk of fatality," Arbogast said.

-Arbogast suggested that parents buying a new booster seat should try it out in their car and see how the seat belt fits on their child.
-The government recommends car seats for children up to 40 pounds and booster seats for children over 40 pounds until they are 8 years old or 4 feet 9 inches tall. All children should ride in the back seat until age 13.

New Feature: RichmondMom.com Rockstars

Soon we'll be featuring women who are truly "rock stars" in the Richmond community. Do you know someone who:

*Is active in the Richmond community?

*Is an advocate for special needs or underprivileged children?

*Is an all-around multi-tasking mama who helps share a rare, free moment on others?

*Is just plain awesome that we need to know about?

Don't keep her to yourself! Tell us about her: http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07e2doi5d4fm98juyi/start

Real Richmond Mom Funny of the Day

Fun mom Melissa Zacharias of Glen Allen VA sent us this one: I am a mother of 4 girls, ages 10, 8, 5, and 2.

The 5 year old came running in a few months ago (still 4 at this point), saying, "Mom, Mom!!! A HUUUGE dog just pooped in our playroom!".

We don't have a dog.

She then proceeds to hand over the said poop. And runs off again as if there's nothing strange at all about the fact that she just found poop in the playroom.
Before you go and start thinking that I have the most unsanitary home in these United States, I should include the information that we had been potty training our 2 year old during this time. We were using the 'ole "tried and true" method of leaving her underwear off with the hopes that she would use the potty sitting in the middle of the room. I assume she "got away" for a bit.

Have a fun story like this one to share? Don't have to use your name if you don't want to own it! Email: kate@richmondmom.com

Pumpkin Palooza

Pumpkin Palooza will be held at the Science Museum of Virginia, 2500 W Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23220

Friday, October 17 – Carving and Preview Party, 6-9 pm – festivities include:
Viewing the carving teams in ACTION
Entertainment, heavy hors d’oeuvres, beer and wine are included
Musical Entertainment — Honkey Tonk Experience — honkeytonkexperience.com.
Advance tickets are required for the preview party, $50 per person
Some sponsorships include reception tickets.

Saturday, October 18 – Family Festival, 11am- 8pm – festivities include:
St. Catherine’s Lower School Chorus — 11:00 AM
Freeman Highschool Cheerleaders — 11:00 AM
St. Christopher’s Lower School Chorus — 11:30 AM
THE SWINGERS — 12:00 PM
St. Andrews Legion Pipes and Drums — 12:30 PM
St. Gertrude High School Ensemble — 1:00 PM
The Florettes — 1:30 PM
Richmond’s International Brotherhood of Magicians Ring 180 — 2:00 PM
Ezibu Muntu Dancers — 2:30 PM
Spidey the University of Richmond Spider — 2:30-4:00 PM
Bonnie the Bunny — 2:30-4:00 PM
Costume Contests — 3:00 PM
Betsy Q — 4:00 PM
Shield Tae Kwon Do — 5:30 PM
Maggie Walker Jazz Ensemble for the Lighting of the Pumpkins — 6:30 PM

http://www.thefaisonschool.org/Pumpkinpalooza.html

Creepy Hollow Hayride: Fun for Bigger Kids

BOO!

The Creepy Hollow Hayride is a unique experience in the dark woods designed to entertain you at every turn. The high quality of the Creepy Hollow Hayride sets it apart from any other event. Filled with spooky scenery, amazing illusions, and scary surprises, the Creepy Hollow Hayride is the finest haunted attraction in Virginia!

Select nights in October. We Sell Tickets from 7pm- 10pm Sunday - Thursday, and from 7pm - Midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Please see our Schedule page!

We are located just off Staples Mill Road, 6 miles west of I-295. You'll see the signs on Staples Mill. Please click on directions above for more detailed directions and a map.

http://www.creepyhollowhayride.com/

Folk Festival this weekend!

http://www.richmondfolkfestival.org/

November is Adoption Month!

Want to support a great Adoption Organization in Richmond?

Our 6th Annual
"Kids Walk for Kids"

All Proceeds Help Support the Services of Coordinators2inc,
Especially Our Services to Children Waiting in Foster Care for a Forever Family
COME WALK WITH US!

Adults and kids of all ages can make a difference in someone else's life. Did you know?…there are over 1700 children in Virginia who are waiting for a forever family. You can help these children by just taking a walk with us.
Who:
We need you and your friends to do the walking; get friends, relatives, neighbors and teachers to sponsor you
When:
November 1, 2008 from 9:00 -11:00 a.m.
How far:
2 miles
Where:
University of Richmond, Robins Center
***INDOORS***
28 Westhampton Way, Richmond, VA 23173
What to do:
Contact Monica Mack at Coordinators2inc (354-1881), a licensed child placing agency, and ask for a Volunteer form. You can also e-mail us at info@c2adopt.org to obtain registration information for the walk. You can either serve as a Team Captain and recruit your friends and family to walk with you as a Team or you can walk as an individual. Then all you do is ask people you know to sponsor you to Walk for a Child Who Waits.
As Team Captain, each team member collects from their own sponsors and turns their money into you and you turn in all the money collected from your whole team by October 27th.
As an individual walker, you collect from your sponsors and turn in your money by October 27th.
-Please be sure that all your sponsors information is on the Registration/Donor form when you collect the money. Sponsors can write a check to Coordinators2inc and for any donation over $25.00, a tax dedcutible letter will be sent after the event.
-All donations from sponsors should be turned in to the office of Coordinators2inc no later than October 27th! Our office is located at: 1617 Monument Avenue, Suite 200, Richmond, VA 23220.
-Then get out your walking shoes and join us on November 1st at the University of Richmond, Robins Center. Walkers should register by 8:45 a.m. It is indoors so weather will not be a factor. There will be prizes awarded and everyone is eligible for gifts.
-DOWNLOAD FORM*
Kids Walk Flyer Signup 2008

*These pages are in Portable Document Format (.pdf) and are viewed/printed with the free Adobe Acrobat Reader plug-in.

Check out: http://www.c2adopt.org/Kids_Walk.htm