I'm dreamin' of a Green Christmas...

By Dana D

Wow! I can’t believe the holidays are here already. I have been making my list and checking it twice….so here are my suggestions for 2009 in making your gift giving a little more green this year. Remember finding ways to reuse and recycle items as gifts are a great way to reduce our footprints and a great way to survive the holidays during today’s economy. Go check out Sleepy Poet Antique Mall for some fun, unique and rare finds. They are located on South Blvd. Fun place with a little café in the back. It is worth a looksy!

Now if you are going to spend some green, here are some fabulous gift ideas that will make you feel good about how you have spent your money.

For that special someone:

Let’s start with Heather Moore Jewelry
Go to Nesting to view and order your new Heather Moore piece. They are FAB!!!! Definitely on my wish list. I LOVE that they are made from recycled metals. You may have read my past blog about how awful the conditions of mining are for the workers and the environment. So if you are buying jewelry this Christmas, buy from those designers who are using recycled metals and are using stones that can be traced back to the company who uses responsible mining practices.

You will be in great hands with Laura, the owner, and Susie! I am telling you that these pieces are even more spectacular in person. While in Nesting, check out some baby gifts for the new mom. I adore The Laundress dryer sheets that they carry. I have been against dryer sheets in the past but these are biodegradable and use safe nontoxic ingredients. So I use one every once in a while. A couple of moms in NYC teamed up to create these and they are a great gift.

Breathe Organic Massage
Who doesn’t need a little pampering around the holidays? The holidays are great but often bring on a little chaos and stress. Let Jonathon take care of you! This is a great gift for yourself or anyone for that matter.

Organica Deluxe
These local gals have quite the following! Even Entourage cast members are commenting on their packaging. If you need a gift, that make s a statement then this is where you go. There is a range of organic products to choose from ranging from cookies to home goods. All packaged in a beautiful turquoise box.

Paddywax soy candles
Yummy candles and the company plants a tree for every candle sold. I think everyone would welcome one of these as a gift.

Dogeared jewelry roll
For the frequent traveler or those who just like to travel in style. Keep your new Heather Moore Jewelry in this organic carrier when on the road. But keep your eye on it. Don’t want to lose that piece!

Kindle
For the avid reader, this is the perfect gift. Read your books on this gadget and you will be saving millions of trees. This is so easy to take on vacation or just around town.

For the greenie:

Baggu by Emily Sugihara
This young entrepeneur has a reusable bag that is chic and affordable. Always a great gift. I feel a little more hip carrying these than my Trader Joe’s bags :)

Ikea Sunnan solar cell powered work lamp - $20
Perfect for that someone who landed the office or the cube by the window….

For the Martha Stewart in your family:

Bamboo utensils – head to Earth Fare or Crate and Barrel. Again, these are now widely available so you can find them at many places. If shopping online is your thing then try www.nestorganics.com. This store in Asheville is filled with goodies for everyone!

Eco friendly cookware- choose cast iron. Yes, Teflon is bad for you especially at high heat cooking. Stainless steel and good ole cast iron are much better choices.

Organic towels and linens- you can find these almost anywhere these days at affordable prices. Check out Pottery Barn, Gaiam and even Target. Remember that cotton is the worst offender of pesticide use.

Green crafter book
One project a week for the whole year to make use of what you have lying around the house. This is a wonderful gift for the Martha Stewart in your family.


For kids and the young at heart:

Solar flashlight - $19.95
Charge lasts up to 8 hours, waterproof and choose your colors. My boys love running around the house and yard with flashlights. Now they can have their own minus the batteries! Yeah! This is great now that it gets dark early in the evening now. Perfect for camping as well.

Plan Toys Green Dollhouse
Okay, this is super cool! This dollhouse comes with solar panels, wind energy generators and recycling bins. There are several other green accessories you can buy as well. I am tempted to buy this for my boys:)

Recycle Kyle Green Doll
Great doll sending a perfect message to your kiddos. Made of organic materials. Fantastic alternative to the toxic dolls of the past.

Sprig Toys
You can find these awesome toys at Pottery Barn Kids and even Toys R Us. These are a sure hit. They are eco-friendly toys, kid operated (no batteries- whoohoo!) and paint free! They have the Adventure series, the Sprig Hollow, Eco Trucks and the Story Builders.

Kettler Go Green Trike
Made from recycled steel and plastic. For ages 18 months and older. Love this idea and it’s much less expensive than the other Kettler trikes.

Green Toys dump truck and tea set for ages 3 and up
Green Toys is a great company that has a limited but fab line of products. Go check it out. Your kids will enjoy it and you can feel good that the toys are made from recycled milk jugs and are BPA/phthalate free. If you get plastic toys this is the way to go!

Green Toys Jump Rope
Get the kids jumping with this cool rope.


Jayden Earth Doll
This is a spectacular heirloom quality rag doll. Its hair is made from cotton, skin made from hemp and stuffing made from recycled plastic containers. Each doll comes with a backpack and inside is a Hope Tree (Douglas Fir) to be planted by child. Now that is one awesome doll!

Plan City by Plan Toys for age 3-8.
This is a very cool set up that the kids are sure to enjoy. High quality, nontoxic wood pieces dyed with soy inks. There are road, garages, you name it….exactly what you would find in a city. Remember, any toy from Plan Toys is a hit in my book. I haven’t found one I didn’t like yet. Check out Toys and Co. for a great selection.

Element Blocks
Inspired by the earth’s elements (rainbow, water, stone, fire).
Made in Germany from solid alderwood and colored with natural dyes. This is a fun change from your basic block sets.

Check out Magic Cabin for the following eco friendly items:

E- Racer for ages 2 and up- these are cool cars made from eco friendly materials. My boys have these and they are a hit.

Automoblox – Again, my boys really enjoy these although they do take apart the wheels which drives me crazy since I am always looking for the parts. You can find these at Play and Learn in Southpark Mall.

Terra Cids Camping Lanterns for ages 6 and up. Powered by a built in generator, wind the crank- no batteries. $34.98

Recycled Tire Horse Swing for ages 5 and up – Made of recycled tires with a hemp mane
This will soon be replacing our current swing. Don’t you remember the old tires swings we used to have as kids? Even cooler.

Wooden stencils kit- a fun alternative to their usual day of coloring.

Sea scope for ages 6 and up - can be used as a land scope or underwater with and under water flashlight

Earth Monopoly
A cool board game for the family! For ages 8 to adult. Packaged in recyclable materials.

Playsilks
I love everything on this site and you have probably heard me talk about Palumba before. I especially like the playsilks, capes and skirts. You will find great things to foster creativity and imaginative play.

Stubby Pencil Studio
For all your eco friendly art supplies and much more. Get the Holiday scented Smencils. Cinnamon, Sugar Plum, Candy Cane, Gingerbread and Sugar cookie. Don’t forget to stock up on your crayon rocks and Lyra Beeswax crayons

Barefoot Books
These are beautifully crafted books with fun and important messages. They are all about exploring other cultures, the planet and ourselves.

For the Product Junkies:

A gift certificate from Simply Skin located at 5126 Park Rd. They will be carrying Eminence gift set. This is organic skin care made in Hungary. I love this line. Call to see about scheduling an appointment for a $25 Eminence mini facial on December 2nd. Only a few appointments left!

Jurlique gift set
You cannot go wrong here. One of my all time faves! High quality line of organic skin care.

Organic pajamas
These are the ultimate comfy and good for you pajamas. You can sleep tight knowing you are surrounded in all natural goodness. No pesticides here. They have kids sizes as well.

Organic cottonrobe
Again, what better way to keep yourself warm and fuzzy than in this fabulous robe.

For the Gardeners:
Seracon Flowers and Trees
Every day is Earth Day here at Seracon. They have cool mini trees for stocking stuffers only at $6. There are plenty of other earthy gifts that will not disappoint like soaps, candles, herbs, flowers and reed diffusers.

I hope that helps point you in the right direction! There are so many green options out there these days that you should be able to find something! Remember it’s always a great idea to contribute to a charitable organization during the holidays. Please comment or question and Happy Holidays!!

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Smarty Mom: Teri Pantier

By Ashley H
Holy 'Citizen of the World' Smarty mom Saturday! I have to laugh because I have been wanting to feature my friend and neighbor, Teri Pantier, as Smarty Mom for quite some time now because I know enough about her to realize how deserving she is of this. But then to send someone you think you know a list of carefully crafted questions only to get back answers that blow you away...well, again, I laugh because I didn't even know the half of her Smartiness! Teri is an exceptional mom, friend, wife, athlete, neighbor and woman. She's the real deal "been there, done that" chick. Her son, 3-yr-old Gage, is also my twin's BFF... we have bonded because our children decided it should be so! When I asked Teri where she was originally from she replied "I am a citizen of the world. But if asked where I spent most of my youth: LaCrosse, Wisconsin; Traverse City and Alpena, Michigan". She and husband, Steve, have been married 11 years and moved to Charlotte in 2004. She lives in the Lake Norman area and is a SAHM but was a nurse before motherhood. She just completed her Masters of Science in Nursing with a Nurse Educator Specialty, something we are all very proud of her for. She also served as an alternate speed skater for the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympic Games. Without further adieu, get to know this cool Smarty mom.

You like to walk on the wild side, tell us about your daredevil activities.

I was an adrenalin junkie for most of my life through my 20’s. I never pass up on an adventure, even to this day. I am a graduate of the National Outdoor Leadership School, where I went 31 days in the Cascade Wilderness to learn outdoor/leadership expedition skills and a boatload about life. To this day, I can name everything that was in my backpack. One can survive with two pair of underwear for a month.


I have been known to throw things in a backpack and wake up in the Southern hemisphere the following morning. Once while in Lake Placid, I was given the pleasure to “RIDE” along as the “number two man” on a Bobsled with the Olympic Bobsled team. Yes, the final hairpin turn of the 1 mile run will remove any sinus congestion you may have for at least one week.


I went parachuting from a plane in Hastings, Michigan with some folks from Michigan State University. Bungee jumped ‘Skippers Canyon’ in the Southern Alps of New Zealand, known as the highest commercial bungee in the world. The drive to the remote bridge and the jet boat ride to pull you from your line are all part of the day's nerve rush events. I am so very thankful they served home brew beers and champagne on the river shore at the end of that one! This was by far the most death defying thing I have ever done, I am unsure if I could ever do it again. My son recently saw the video and screamed, “Mommy, I want to do that, let’s do that!”... home brews and champagne only go so far, sport!

With a maiden name like Teri Fleitz (pronounced Flights) it’s only fitting that you became an Olympic speed skater. How did you get into speed skating and what was it like in the friggin O-L-Y-M-P-I-C-S?

From the Midwest it has been said, you come out of the womb, they spank your behind and slap a pair of skates on your feet. Skating and downhill skiing were the activities we did regularly, as a family, while growing up. The following is a story told to me from my parents along with my own accounts of my memory. When I was four, I can remember going to the ice rink, which was a flooded city block, and everyone getting on the ice but me. I had roller skates! So I would skate on the sidewalk that bordered the rink, while everyone was on the ice. One night after skating, my parents took me to K-Mart to get some skates. They grabbed the double runner skates and started going to the checkout. My father said it was the one and only temper tantrums he ever saw me throw. There was no way I would ever put the double runner skates on my feet, I wanted big girl single runner blades and we were not going to leave the store with anything different! My father, my biggest fan, supported my decision and argued with the store clerk that he did not think it would be a waste of money and off we went, with my single runners to the checkout! The following night we went to the rink. I took two steps and fell. My father came over to help me up and I told him, “NO.” I got up and off I went! They hardly saw me the whole night.
I tried speed skating one year at the age of five and did not like it. From there, I played boys hockey until I was ten. I was the one with the pink socks showing from my skates for the feminine touch. My mother gave me “the talk” and explained that, as I got older, I would not be allowed in the team locker room. So, I ventured into figure skating because I had seen the movie ‘Ice Castles.’ I did a cute little ice show dressed as one of Santa’s Elves and promptly signed up for speed skating the following Fall. I was 12-years-old and the first year out, I made the US National team. The traveling began that year: Lake Placid, Colorado Springs, Marquette and Baton Rouge for training. The following year I made the Canadian American Team which included traveling to Canada. At fifteen, I competed in the Junior World Championships, World Cup Tours and the National Tours. This provided an incredible opportunity to see the Scandinavian countries and almost all of Europe. In the Fall of 1987, we trained as a team in Calgary and then back to Milwaukee for Olympic trials in December. I qualified for the 1988 team as an alternate for the 1000m and 1500m events. I did not get to compete for time in the games, just fun. Fantastic time in my life, got some great uniforms, I met some of the greatest people in the world and will cherish it forever.

How did you get through school and earn an education during this skating-dedicated time?

I moved to Milwaukee, Wisconsin to attend a private school 3 miles from the ice rink. My schedule was arranged so that all my necessary courses were taken in the morning so I could run to the rink, with my skates on my back, to train in the afternoons. When I was traveling, my teachers would give me my work ahead of time and send FedEx packages with recordings of other materials while overseas. I made it absolute priority to study 1-2 hours every day, regardless of the many hours of training. Often, I would return home and have multiple exams, one right after the other and in 24 hours fly out somewhere else. It was hard, but I wanted to do well in school.


When you are at that level, nothing is the norm; not a prom, not a haircut, not getting your teeth cleaned. It was harder for me to adjust to normal daily living than to the extreme of the sport.

Are you fostering your love of skating in your son, Gage?

Gage loves EVERYTHING we do as far as activities. We exposed him to skating and down hill skiing around 18-months so he could experience the love of winter sports with us. Also, getting a child on skates early gives them an opportunity to develop coordination that spills over into whatever they desire to do. During the fall and winter months, our family skates on Saturday mornings, just for fun. I will never push him to do anything he does not enjoy. My belief is that a child is a novel already written and we, as parents, need to just lovingly read them.

You’ve just earned your Master’s degree with a specialty in nursing education and are working towards a Doctorate. This defies all logic to me, how do you find the time in between the demands of mommyhood and what made you want to do this?

I will be the first to admit this was challenging. I literally took baby steps and made certain that I never did more classes in a semester than I could handle. Going into graduate school at the time of new mommyhood was kind of by mistake. We decided to start a family and no more did we say, “hey, let’s have a baby” then before we knew it we were pregnant! Sad to say, we lost that pregnancy and decided kids just were not going to be our thing. I took a full time job, got a new car, registered for the graduate exams and….uh, honey….I'M PREGNANT! I sat for the exams while I was 4-months pregnant, finished my application and got accepted. I did not start taking classes until my son was 5-months-old. I took every online course they offered and traveled to campus only when necessary. My husband arranged his travel for work so he would be home when I needed to go. It worked out beautifully because Gage would nap 4-5 hours in a day and sleep 12 hours at night. I would study the syllabus the first day of class and start working on the big assignments right away. I promised myself that Gage would never come second and he would never even know I was in school. It worked well in the long run because it kept me connected to the adult world without having to leave my son. There were some tough moments, my husband will tell you. I would have my outer body experience after my son was in bed, pick up the pieces, get a good night sleep and back at it in the morning. I am in no hurry to jump into finishing the doctorate program. When I do return it will be to specialize in Holistic Nutrition.

With cold & flu season upon us what's one of your favorite holistic medicinal practices?

My passion in medicine is a preventive and integrative approach. From my experiences with working in Oncology, traveling to study ancient Mayan medicine in Central America and the traditional Aztec cultures of Mexico; I grew an avid passion for natural healing. I could write several pages on this topic alone, but I will spare you for now. My research on this is just beginning and will certainly entail my defense of a doctoral dissertation. My favorite practice these days is a simple tea of: honey, cinnamon and citrus peal. After the tea is gone, I eat the orange peal, that’s just me; I am weird in that way. We like to eat our apple cores too.

Where was your favorite place you ever lived and why did you choose to move to Charlotte?

I have lived overseas and all over the US and would have to say that every place has its wonderness to offer. My dream is to go back to a place where the mountains meet the shoreline and there is tons of snow in the winter. Colorado is awesome for the skiing. Arizona, the beautiful red rocks and dessert intrigue. California is enriched with progressive thinking. Chicago has outstanding food and shopping. Michigan the beautiful, crystal clear waters. I love them all for these magnificent features.


Our move to Charlotte was for sanity. We were living the type-A lifestyle of Washington, DC which was not our bag. We needed to be in a location that has an international airport for my husband, so after visiting Charlotte, we decided it was the smallest, big city we could do.

What is the funniest thing Gage has ever said to you?

Around the age of two, as we were driving one day, Gage pointed to a motor home (RV) and said, “Mommy, hippy bus!” We have no idea where that came from.

What is your favorite family activity?

I love quiet time, at home, with family and friends. My favorite is to be out on our new patio, just relaxing. Throw something on the grill, have a fire in the pit, make smores and snuggle up on the furniture over a great glass of wine. Love the Carolina outdoor living!

Favorite kids activity?

Playing outside with neighbor friends. Something so simple and pretty uncommon these days, has brought some of the greatest memories for our son.

Favorite “mommy time” activity?

SLEEP! I am so loving being able to do that these days, but I do also enjoy crafting and creating.

Best money or time saving tip (or both)?

It has seemed since Gage has been born, my whole day was washing, preparing, chopping, cooking, steaming food. I was getting burnt out on it and I love to cook. So we started putting an array of meats on the grill on Sunday night and having our meat ready for us for the week. Then I was introduced to Tupperware and found a product called, fridge smarts. I could wash, chop and have ready all my fruits and veggies for the week and store them in these containers that keep them as fresh as if I just chopped them! I have been reborn. Since the blog came out, on this site, about organic fruit/veggie delivery, I have just signed up to give it a try. Organic is in short supply up here at Lake Norman, so I cannot wait to see how it goes. So as far as meals for the week, I only need to grab a few extras to round out a great, fresh, healthy meal in minutes. Though I still do love my crockpot! PS: I have a great Tupperware lady if you need her! She was a Charlotte Smarty mom too!

Best book you’ve read lately?

I have been so overwhelmed with school reading that often I have not had much of a chance to read for pleasure. However, a friend of mine loaned me a book called, “The Art of Racing in the Rain.” I am a dog lover and could very much relate to the narrator. This is a fun quick read.

Best place to eat out with the whole family?

From the age of 2-3 years-NOT ON YOUR LIFE ARE WE EATING OUT unless someone is starving to death! However, we do love The Egg in Davidson for Sunday brunch. Excellent home cooked meal with a southern hospitality.

Best place to eat for date night?

We have enjoyed 131 Main in Cornelius and Dressler’s at Birkdale.

Favorite weekend escape?

We like to head to the mountains for hiking and some quiet. One spot we particularly liked was Little Switzerland. Nestled on the Blue Ridge Parkway and dog friendly. The wineries in North Carolina/Virginia are also quite fun. We are just now discovering some of them and look forward to a few next season!

Favorite place to shop for kids clothes?

Mini Boden for that something different; Lands End for quality everyday stuff and Gap for the fit in pants.

Best piece of baby/kid gear?

We have a two wheel bike called, the Skuut, that is fabulous for toddlers until they are on a big kid bike. It gives them a chance to develop balance without training wheels, so they go from it, to a big kid, two-wheel bike. You can get them at REI or online. This is a must have!

Favorite park?

We have gone to the Sand Box a few times in Davidson and really enjoy that. It is fenced in so you don’t have to worry about the street and there is any toy you would ever want that is permanent with the park. There is a even Kettler scooter…let go mom, they are for the kids!

Mini-van or SUV?

We have always been SUV people. But because of our enormous dog, it was easier to load him and his crate into the mini van. I have been driving a mini van for over three years now and have loved it. But, I am ready to go back to an SUV, more so, a crossover vehicle. This would be a welcomed change to anything we have had in the past.

Your favorite Charlotte Smarty Pants blog so far?

There is so much that I enjoy about the Smarty site that it is difficult to choose. Both my husband and I got a kick out of the Mr. Mom, Randy P. adventures. Hilarious! My husband was in charge for seven days while I traveled overseas for study. When I returned, he had a new appreciation for what we as moms do in a day. Most importantly, being new to this area, the site has given me some leads as to where to shop, activities to try and places to go. It has been priceless!

I could not live without…

the love of my husband, son and Kobi (our dog). On those days when you feel whatever you do you just cannot get it together… a hug from my son, a giggle, or a wag of a tail keeps me in touch with what life is all about.

Best thing about raising a family in Charlotte?

There is any kind of activity you could ever want to do with your children: art, museums, live children’s theater, ice shows etc…The relaxed pace and southern hospitality of this region is optimal for raising a family.

Best kept secret in Charlotte or Lake Norman?

The Cornelius Art Center, formerly Cornelius Art Project, has creative activities for children and adults to accommodate all interests of imagination. They have special workshops for children any age for the Christmas season that includes such things as sing-alongs and sight/smells of Christmas.

Teri, I thank you my dear friend. And I'll see you around the outdoor fire real soon, I'll bring the wine & graham crackers! Tis the season, Smarties. Send in those mominations today as we wrap up 2009 and look forward to 2010!

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Smarty Christmas Gift Giving Guide - 5 to 7 Year Olds

By Jenny D.

Ok, so here are the Smarty reco's for 5 to 7 year olds.

Electronics:
Nintendo DSi - definitely a good age to invest in this gaming system.

Vsmile motion- it sort of like an educational wii for kids. And it comes in boy and girl colors.

Boys:
Quadrilla marble sets This thing is awesome, check it out.

Legos Legos and more Legos! Tracy's Jake loves the little kits where he can follow the directions and put them together on his own.

StarWars action figures, or anything StarWars for that matter are a hit! Superheroes as well.

Girls:
It's time to get the real deal American Girl doll whether it's
Kitt Kitredge or Chrissa, Girl of the Year. We got the bitty baby a couple of years ago, and Zoe is now ready for the doll. We plan to have some fun with accessories for the American Girl. Check out ebay or etsy for handcrafted things first, usually cheaper and more unique.

We love arts and crafts gift. Consider gifts from Alex such as the sewing machine, knitting scarves, decorate flip flops, etc. Another hit are the mosaic crafts - make your own tiara or fairies.

Both:
Playmobil also had great stuff for both boys and girls – there are tons of themes including pirates.

Bean Bag – PotterybarnKids has them. This is a great gift when kids get too big for the floor chair. The Company Store has themed ones as well and you can get them personalized with his or her name on it at both places.

Puzzles – the 100 or even 200 piece are good.

Educational toys are also hit for both. Check out our previous article for some fun games. Also consider Pears in Pairs:

Board games are also great. You can start a new family tradition with game night and play games such as Sorry!, Blokus, Go Fish, memory game, and Zingo.

Another fun game is Bull’s-eye Ball SUPER fun game – kind of like miniature skee-ball.

Oh – and this is really cool too – a live Butterfly Garden. You get the kit and then there is a certificate enclosed to send away for your live caterpillars (so you can plan for when you’ll be home to witness the full cycle). When they arrive, you feed them and watch them get fat, then they for their cocoons and emerge as butterflies!! WAY cool for the whole family! Tracy S. got this for Jake and they actually let a couple of the butterflies out so they could fly around Jake’s room.

High Five magazine subscription - its the younger version of Highlights - GREAT magazine for this age! Short stories, fun little activities, some education things, Hidden Picture page!! LOVE it! And it's totally geared toward the younger crew.

My First Weather Station – Rachael from TSP, keeps this in her son’s room and when he wakes up in the mornings he not only sees the outside and inside temperature, but there is a picture to show him how he should dress! In the winter the little boy has on a scarf and hat and on hot days he will just be wearing his swimtrunks. It is so fun for her son and also helpful to mom when you are getting your children dressed in the mornings!

Hens and Chicks – This was called Mikado, but it has changed its name. This is a simple, fun family game. Rachael just played it the other night with her fam, and somehow her 6 year old beat everyone! It is similar to the game “Perfection” we played when we were younger.

And don't forget activity gift cards, great for stocking stuffers or from the grandparents: YMCA gymnastics or Jami Masters School of Dance, Tae Kwon Do or Charlotte Gymnastics Academy.

Whew, that's enough to wear this elf out, but I am sure you smarties have other thoughts so please share!

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Smarty Holiday Gift Ideas: Ages 2-4 years

By Ashley H
This is such a F-U-N age to buy for, little people with an insatiable curiosity about the world around them. Jenny & Jen have both covered this age group in years past and have suggested gifts that you can add to over the years to come. I incorporated some of those ideas along with some top gift ideas for this year and others that work well in our own girl/boy twin home. I hope you find these helpful. Please weigh in with your own recommendations, we pull those into these lists so we have comprehensive resource each year. TIA! Keep in mind with any of these gift ideas, it's best to look around for the best price. I find my best buys on Smart E-Place, Craigslist, eBay, Amazon and buy from friends.


Girls
Dollhouses- A Smarty girlie gift favorite each year! Some top picks include Pottery Barn Kids WestPort House, the PBK Townhouse, PBK School and others. Jen loves Ryan's Room, Home Again, Home Again A-Frame for around $100 and the Melissa & Doug Deluxe Dollhouse for $80-ish or a smaller version (Melissa & Doug Deluxe Wooden Fold & Go for $50-ish). Melissa & Doug also sells cool rooms and dolls separately. Be sure to search eBay and other sources, you can often find nearly identical items for a fraction of the price. Also consider asking family members to buy room pieces for the houses and those can also be found on eBay for less.

Dress-up clothes are always a hit for girls. Target usually has a hat box set that is filled with shoes, tutus and all kinds of clothes to build the perfect dress up outfit. Toys & Co has beautiful gowns and Disney princess versions.

Bitty Babies from American Girl are great for girls 3-5. Other relatives can buy clothes or accessories. A great idea is matching nightgowns for your daughter/doll.

Groovy Girls- mermaids are new to the collection this year and splashy sassy! You can buy outfits for these dolls, a horse, beds, etc. Jen's girls LOVE these!
Stable and Pasture Pals- we love both of these from Melissa & Doug and this is perfect for the horsey gal (like myself)!

Both
*I don’t have a girly-girl daughter so we have more luck in our family with many of the toys listed under “both” since these are more of the toys my girl/boy twins both enjoy.

Books, books and more books- you can never have enough of these for any child. See Tracy's post from earlier this year for ideas on Smarty book pics from her and you Smarties on some great titles for your little ones!


Sippy cups Smarty style - you can't ever have enough personalized sippies and check this super cute MudPie sippy/snack holder combo all wrapped up with a presh mono, available at our Smarty fave, Alphabet Soup in Morrocroft.


Fropper- a new gift for 2009 and looks so super Smarty! Kids bounce with foot power or simply glide along. Caster wheels make for easy steering and 2-level seat means it grows with your child. Folds to fraction of size and great for inside or out!

Melissa & Doug Standing Easel Melissa & Doug's easel is great because it is very sturdy, made of durable wood construction, folds up easily for storage and adjustable height for your growing child. A beautiful gift for your budding artist!

Battery Powered ATVs A favorite in our twin household, we own one each for my daughter & son and they have nearly ridden the wheels off! Attracts kids from all over the neighborhood for a ride, so you can’t go wrong with this gift! The John Deere Tractor is great for your down home boy or girl (Smarty tip: Check out Wal-Mart, they offer site-to-store with free shipping if they don't have in stock which is sanity during the holiday madness).

Legos- A steadfast classic that most every child loves. A great way to foster creative manipulation skills in your child. I like the bigger legos for small children, no choking hazards and less mess.


Play kitchens - Got a lil Top Chef in training?! Play kitchens are perfect for little helpers that love to cook, brew tea, stack dishes and wash plates. I just bought a great used play kitchen set for my twins this Christmas and can’t wait to unleash their culinary curiosity this holiday! Consider a presh kids apron to accompany this gift idea.

CD Players- perfect for the little Smarty groover! Consider one with microphones so your child can live the rockstar in themselves. Now Santa can stuff their stockings with CD's and they are living the dream! Jen's Santa makes a special cd mix customized just for her kids – a huge hit each year!

Vtech Digital Camera- Just right for small hands, a kid-smart digital camera with fun movies and games, 1.8" color screen, double viewer or LCD screen. Includes connector cables for TV or PC connections to a personal computer with printer and TV for photo and video playback. SD card slot for memory (16MB internal memory).

Leapster is another gift that Jen mentioned in years past, and everyone can pitch in to buy a game. Comes in pink for girls and there is green for boys.

Leap Frog Tag is a great gift for kids learning to read. Children read aloud by dragging a pen over words. Additional books are sold separately which make nice gifts from others.

Fisher Price Smart Cycle -No matter what the weather outside your child can still exercise inside while having fun. The Fisher Price Smart Cycle combines the fun indoor activity of video game playing with the physical activity the great outdoors will give you. Designed for kids ages three to six, the Smart Cycle "physical learning arcade system" is an all-in-one stationary bike, video game console, and educational tool.

Games and puzzles- Candy Land, Memory, Perfection, Sorry Jr., Rush Hour, Boggle, Zingo, Hiss, kids Cranium, Hullabaloo and Pre-school Uno are some Smarty favs. We love Melissa and Doug puzzles for kids this age.

Hasbro Playskool Busy Ball Popper - An award winning top toy recommendation for 2009. Drop balls on track and watch them pop out of top, roll down and pop out again. Air-mazing action is accompanied by silly sound effects and groovy eight tunes. Encourages repetitive play and stimulated motor development skills.

Trikes- My family rolls with the Kettler Trikes (with pushbar). I saved by purchasing a used Kettler, just be sure that you get a push bar with purchase, for toddlers just learning to peddle it’s a must for neighborhood walks! The Kettler Kettrike Air-Navigator Tricycle includes a parental control steering system that locks handlebars for more control when using the optional pushbar. The auto-freewheel component on this trike allows your child a place to rest feet when you steer with pushbar.

Some other great options here include John Deere tricycle (extra Smarty cool cause you can get a cart to go with it), the Radio Flyer Classic Tricycle (and oldie but goodie, siblings love to ride on the back ledge), and Tracy loves the Radio Flyer Twist Trike (it serves as a tricycle when younger and then you can turn the handle bars & front wheel around and this converts to a big wheel when a little older).

Lastly, my all-time-fav in this category is the Skuut (pronounced "scoot"). My girlfriend's child, Teri (who is our Smarty mom Saturday so stay tuned for more), child owns this and let me tell you, it's the b-o-m-b. It's a two-wheeled wooden balance bike where children ages 2-5 learn balance, steering & coordination while straddling the Skuut and without training wheels! It's makes for a faster transition to a regular bike than using one with training wheels. Teri found hers at REI.

Scooters- Three-year-olds are also ready for their first 3-wheeler scooter. You can find a bunch of them on Amazon. For girls, there is a cheap princess one or you can order a Kettler version in primary colors. 4-year-olds can get their first Razor scooter with helmet and elbow/knee pads. And 3-year-olds may be ready for their first 10" bike and 4-year-olds would need a 16" bike.

Penguin Race- This is a retro toy that Rachel with TSP had when she was little and is a great recommendation from her for this age group. Rachel’s 3 & 5-yr-old kids absolutely loved this sweet little toy, as well as many of their friends who came over to play.

Moon In My Room- Another great Rachel (from TSP) recommendation! Her family loves this. It serves as a night light as kids fall asleep, but they also learn the phases of the moon. It has a remote, too, so kids can change the moon phases themselves.

Charlotte Activity Memberships- an individual or family membership to Discovery Place, Little Otters Swim School, Rolly Pollies, Charlotte Swim Academy or Charlotte Jr Gym (just to name a Smarty few) is a great way for grandparents and out-of-town family members to send a gift that gives all year long!

Boys
Trains- As a mom of a son that is train obsessed (Thomas particularly) this is high on our list this Christmas. Thomas or Brio wooden trains are great. Melissa and Doug also make wooden track that you can buy for $1-$3 a piece and build your own track. Train tables are great and keep boys occupied for hours on end. Another Smarty recommendation is GeoTrax, they are easy for kids to assemble, offer endless layouts and a great gift idea for grandparents to add on to! Check out your mom's club or Craigslist for used train tables, it's such a waste to buy this new.

Stomp Rockets- Kids can get rid of some excess energy with this air-powered outdoor rocket toy. No battery or fuel is needed to get the rockets airborne--just some old-fashioned stomping power. Set up the simple launch stand in a clear outdoor area, connect the 38-inch-long vinyl air hose and blast pad, load one of the 9-inch yellow foam rockets--and watch out.

Playskool Tonka Bounce Back Racer - A wireless controller sends this car forward or backward. Soft, squishy body and oversized rubber tires on this car means no damage to walls & floors. Car flips over obstacles to reveal different colored racer underneath!


Automoblox- a great green gift for your boy! It comes with a stylish wooden body and allows for kids to add wheels, windows and unique customizing details.

Bruder Trucks- so unique and S-m-a-r-t-y! Check out Marshalls, Jen has seen these here for half of regular price but of course it's hit or miss.

Whew, that was a doozy! Share your Smarty faves!

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Smarty Scoop on Weekend Activities: 11/20-11/22

By Courtenay W

Hello there Smarties. It is shaping up to be a super Smarty weekend if the rain will just go away. There are a couple of cool events leading up to the weekend that you and all your Mom friends should check out at Monkee’s of Morrocroft and at Nesting. The SouthPark Tree Lighting kicks off the weekend Friday. I love a good tree lighting and this year we won’t miss out because of travel plans. ImaginOn and Discovery Place are rolling with Smarty events but don’t take my word for it – see for yourself. Make sure you check out all the events below and get out and enjoy!

Mother’s Morning Out
Monkee’s of Morrocroft
November 19, 8:00am-11:00am
Every mom deserves a little pampering! Drop the kids off at school, and come by Monkee’s early to check out fabulous fall fashion and meet other moms! A discount of 25% off your entire purchase will be given. Coffee and a light breakfast will be served.

Heather Moore Trunk Show
Nesting, 6401 Morrison Blvd., Charlotte
November 19, 10:00am
Stop by Nesting for a holiday trunk show with Heather Moore! Get a first look at all of the newly released designs, and have a one-on-one with the designer herself. You'll be sure to find something for everyone on your holiday lists. CSP Deal? 15% off if you order on the day of the show.

“Advanced Fertility Treatment”
November 18, noon
Morehead Medical Plaza, 5th Floor Classroom 5
Carolinas Medical Center Women’s Institute
Dr. Rebecca Usadi leads this seminar that is open to the public. Refreshments are provided.

SouthPark Lighting of the Great Tree
SouthPark Mall
November 20, 5:00pm-7:00pm, preshow festivities; 7:00pm-7:30pm, tree lighting; 7:30pm "Elf."
Before the tree lighting, enjoy children's activities, food and family entertainment. After the lighting, watch "Elf" in Symphony Park. Santa will make a special appearance to help light the tree! Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs and blankets.

Play Spanish Storytime
ImaginOn
November 20, 10:00am
Children of all ages invited to join in hour of stories, games and art and crafts.

Boogie Woogie Books
ImaginOn
November 20, 11:00am
Kids can really get their groove on with this program.

Mr. Nigel's Music & Friends Story Time
Joseph-Beth Booksellers & Bistro
November 20, 11:15am
Have fun with Mr. Nigel as he sings, plays instruments and reads books. Children will have fun while learning!

American Girl Fashion Show
CenterStage@NoDa, 2315 N. Davidson St.
November 21, 10:00am, 2:00pm, 6:00pm
Celebrate being a girl, whether yesterday or today, through a colorful presentation of historical and contemporary fashions. Fundraiser benefits Project Bloom. For girls 6 and older. Cost is $40 and up. Scholarships available.

28th Annual Seagrove Pottery Festival
Seagrove School, 528 Old Plank Road, Seagrove, N.C.
November 21-22, 9:00am-6:00pm
This is the only time of the year that most of the Seagrove area potters sell their wares at one location. The festival emphasizes hand-made pottery and traditional crafts. Cost is $6.

Civil War Lantern Tour
Charlotte Museum of History
November 21, 6:00pm-9:00pm
Interact with foot soldiers, officers, doctors and civilians as they face the trials of the years between 1861 and 1865. See the campfires, smell the cooking, and listen to the stories, providing an in-depth look at the conditions of the time. Events re-enacted on the tour are based on letters, diaries and other records collected from the Civil War. Tours are conducted by the NC 43rd and Lanthams Light Artillery, a Charlotte-based Civil War reenactment unit. Reservations required. Cost is $8 adults, $6 students.

Mouse Tails
ImaginOn, Wachovia Playhouse
November 21-22, Sat. 1:00pm, Sun. 2:00pm
Tarradiddle Players explore the furry, sometimes magical world of mice in a show that emphasizes story-telling and audience participation. When a mysterious stranger tries to steal poor Myron Mouse’s favorite song, he begins a rollicksome chase in and out of favorite stories. For ages 3-5. Cost is $10-$12.

Turkey Talk
Charlotte Nature Museum
November 21, 10:00am
Get up close to wild turkeys and learn all about the bird of the season. Creature Features, supported by The Guild of Discovery Place and Charlotte Nature Museum, are monthly special events and include animal encounters, crafts, puppet shows, storytelling and refreshments. From Pet Pals to Spooky Spiders, each month brings a new theme and all activities are free with Museum admission.

Lowe's Build and Grow Clinics: Snowman
Area Lowe’s stores
November 21, 10:00am-11:00am
There may be no snow, but kids can still build their own snowman. The first 50 kids to register and be present get a kit, aprons and goggles. Recommended for kids in first-fifth grades.

Lights Before Christmas
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
November 21-January 3, 6:00pm-9:00pm Closed Nov. 26, Dec. 24, 25 and 31.
Explore the Zoo illuminated by nearly 1 million twinkling lights and more than 350 handcrafted images. Take your photo with Santa, roast marshmallows at the Jingle Bell Bonfire and be sure to wear your hat - it snows nightly! Cost is $8 adults, $6 kids 3-12.

Physics Fun Day
Discovery Place
November 21, 10:00am
Explore the forces of fun. Lift, push, and move your way through interactive fun physics activities.

Piedmont Heritage Day
The Schiele Museum
November 21, 10:00am-4:00pm
Experience on-the-hour guided tours and presentations by visiting Catawba Indian speakers and artisans and traditional cooking to celebrate the successful harvests and the seasonal bounty, See open fire cooking and hearth skills with baking, roasting and boiling. Visit with re-enactors telling the story of Backcountry bonding - the gift of time earned from a busy harvest season for fellowship with family and friends!

Holiday Craft and Bake Sale
Weddington United Methodist Church
November 21, 8:30-12:30
Unique Vendors and Baked Goods. Door Prizes every 20 Minutes.

Nutcracker Tea
SouthPark Mall
November 22, 10:00am-noon
Pottery Barn Kids and Charlotte City Ballet present their second annual Nutcracker Tea, benefiting St. Jude's Children's Hospital. Reservations required and seating is limited. $3 minimum donation per child. Call 704-366-8550.

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Will you zhu zhu?

By Jen P.

Ugghh! This is bringing back old memories, or shall I say nightmares, of my very first job out of college, a retail manager for Toys 'R Us. Yes, Smarties, back in 1994, my fine education at the University of Florida landed me an 80-hour work week in retail! I recall all too vividly the I-N-S-A-N-I-T-Y of parents who would do anything to get their child that coveted toy under the Christmas tree, even if it meant breaking limbs to do it, I'm totally serious here! Back then it was the Power Rangers White Tigerzoid. You can bet my nephew was the coolest kid on the playground because a) his aunt had connections with Santa and b) yup, she hooked him up with a White Tigerzoid. So here we are, a zillion years later and the hottest toy this 2009 holiday season is the Zhu Zhu faux hamster and all the accessories that go with it. And I'm just not sure I buy into the madness.

For those of you not familiar, Zhu Zhu Pets are interactive, plush, and artificially intelligent hamsters that talk and move around in their own playsets. Zhu Zhu Pets include two play modes: nurturing mode where the hamsters coo and purr, and adventure mode where the hamsters explore their habitat with intelligent audio and mechanical responses to various habitat stimuli. Over a dozen add-ons can be purchased to build an ever-evolving hamsterworld for your hamsters to play in and explore. As I'm typing this I'm thinking, yeah, this totally beats cleaning up a hamster cage, but am I willing to duke it out with all of the crazies on Black Friday, probably not.

So where can you find a Zhu Zhu pet? The answer is nowhere right now unless you're willing to pay $55 bucks on Amazon or for $687.88 you can get the entire hammy-city on eBay (now do you see the level of insanity here?!). These things should retail for $8 and the accessories can go up to $50 or $60. From what I've read, it sounds like the retailers (Toys R Us, Target and Amazon) are holding their stash so their Black Friday advertisements aren't bogus. So get your boxing gloves on, Smarties, and set your clocks for 2am Thanksgiving night!

This is what I think we at Smarty Land should do. Let's keep an ongoing Smarty Alert system if you are ever successful at landing your Zhu Zhu get-up. I have heard of random success this week here in the Queen City at Wal-Mart & Target. But trust me, they are few and far between. So email us here when you have a successful sighting & purchase. We'll alert the rest of the Smarties in hopes that we help each other out this holiday season. Until then, you may want to consider getting your kid the real deal:-)

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Smarty Gift Ideas: 0-2 Years

By Tracy S

Holy Cow! Where has this year gone?? Thanksgiving is less than 2 weeks away, and here at CSP, we are attempting to get a Smarty head-start to all our holiday shopping. So whether you’ve been naughty or nice this year, be sure to check out our blogs all week long for toy suggestions broken out by age … and maybe even a great deal thrown if for good measure!

Before I launch into our picks for the wee-ones, I thought I’d share a super Smarty tip that has helped me get ahead of the game each year and take some of the stress out of holiday shopping. For the past few years, my husband and I pick a day (usually a Friday) in early November and both play hooky from work while the kids are in school. We compile a detailed list of who we need to buy for, a budget for each person, and some initial ideas. Then we map out our route and hit the stores! Being that it’s a weekday in early November, we always have a great selection of toys, and not nearly the crowds you tend to find in December. Of course if you shop online, you can avoid the crowds as well, but I’m a browse-the-aisles, touch-and-feel kind of gal, so this works great for us! AND … you get most of your shopping done EARLY so you can relax and enjoy the hustle bustle of the holidays. It’s an exhausting day, but feel so great to check all that off your list :)

Now for our Smarty Favs for Toddlers (0-2 years)

Some Basics:
Books - by the age of one, I think all toddlers love books. Ryanne has her 2 or 3 favorites that we read over and over and over … Small board books are the best because they are really hard on them at this age. We also really like books with flaps, but if it’s one you don’t want to get ripped, you might want to keep it out of reach when you’re not enjoying it with your child! (yes, I’ve learned from experience!)

Simple stacking rings

Anything with lights and sounds

Shape sorting toys

Fisher-Price Little People Toys - many an hour has been spent enjoying the pirate ship, the farm complete with tractor and animals, and the garage with little cars. Fisher Price even has a Little People Nativity Scene which is GREAT for little ones who want to touch, play and learn about the origin of Christmas. We were lucky to receive one a few years ago and its one of our favorite things to pull out every year!

Baby dolls

Character stuffed animals (Elmo, Big Bird, Mickey Mouse Barney, Snoopy … all HUGE hits when Jake was this age!)

Blocks - Rachel from Triad Smarty Pants loves the HappyVille Blocks – “My son got these as a gift when he was born and six years later they still come in handy! These blocks are so colorful and cute. My daughter loves to build houses for her dolls. We always pull these blocks out for younger kids when they come to visit. They are also great to teach sorting and matching!”

Simple wooden puzzles - Melissa & Doug make some great ones or check out this cool puzzle chest

Leap Frog Fridge Farm

Playskool Busy Ball Popper

Leap Frog Learn & Groove music table


Trains:
Now is an excellent time to start building your child’s train collection. We got our first set of GeoTrax when Jake was 18 months and that quickly became a favorite gift idea going forward such that now we have a set that can stretch all the way around our house! These are easy to put together and provides hours of creative fun for both child and parent.

Another favorite are the Thomas trains, wooden only


Push or Ride Toys:
This are MUST HAVES! Toddlers love to push & ride things. Here’s a sampling of some of our favorites:
Radio Flyer Pathfinder Wagon - I can’t believe we have a 5-year old and still don’t have one of this in our garage! I’m thinking there might definitely be one under the tree this year.
Jen and Ashley both love the Radio Flyer push wagon. Jen’s almost 4-year old boys still play with theirs - so definitely worth the investment.

Radio Flyer Classic Trike

Kettler tricycle

Step2 Push Buggy - but get ready to log some serious miles on this thing! I don’t know a single toddler who doesn’t love it. In fact, Ryanne tried to hijack one outside of California Pizza Kitchen a couple weeks ago … which then led to one of our very first little girl temper tantrums! Smarty tip - Check out the Whisper Ride - it’s about $20 more, but may be worth it (the XL Silent Ride Tires have quieted the travel in this ride).

Little Tikes Cozy Coupe - many versions and styles to choose from!


Doll strollers for girls

Supermarket Shopping Cart is on our list this year. We grew up with one as kids & I think literally ran the wheels off of it.

And Ashley reminds us of an oldie but goodie … the classic Corn Popper. “Mine love it and something we all remember growing up with so we know it's a proven well loved classic! Great gift for $12!”


Extra Special Gifts:

Table & Chairs set - Little toddlers are so anxious to start acting like "big people" and what better way than to belly up to your own tike-size table? Pottery Barn has a great set that will last forever! Or check out Ikea's version for a less expensive option.

Foam Floor Chair - Wonderful gift for little ones that love to climb on & off for fun, to read, watch cartoons, etc. We prefer the monogrammed Pottery Barn Anywhere Chair (currently on sale too!), but other less expensive versions are available such as the Jr Club Chair at Toys R Us.

Wooden Growth Chart - One of my favorite things is tracking my children's growth over the years and its fun to start now! My Bambino has super cute wooden growth charts that you can personalize with name and select from tons of cute hand-painted designs.

Personalized Step Stool - My Bambino also offers some cute options for stools as well or for those adorable name puzzle stools, check out mystepstool.com

And for the little girls - Bow Holders. This is awesome for little 1-2 year olds as their hair starts getting long enough to sport those cute little hairbows - Every girl needs one! And get this Smarties ... Alphabet Soup in Morrocroft, is offering a 10% discount to CSP readers for all orders placed on this item prior to Dec 1.

Whew! That's a lot of great ideas!! But we know there are many more ... share your top picks and best finds for kids 0-2. And be sure to check out Ashley's list tomorrow for kids 2-4. Happy Shopping!

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Smarty Event: Celeb Jewelry Designer, Heather Moore at Nesting on Thursday!

By Jen P.

The first time I laid eyes on a Heather Moore necklace, I absolutely fell in love. It is by far the most sentimental piece of jewelry I own, especially since I designed it myself, documenting each event in my life. Whether it's the birth of a new baby, a wedding, an anniversary or any of life's precious moments, you can celebrate them all with a Heather Moore piece.

Heather Moore is a unique collection of handmade necklaces, bracelets and fine jewelry. Each date, name, or monogram is hand-pressed with vintage, turn-of-the-century tools and everything is made of 100% recycled metals.

Our very own, Nesting, is the exclusive retailer of the Heather Moore line in North and South Carolina. The coolest part is that Heather Moore herself is coming to the Queen City on Thursday to host a trunk show. That's right, Smarties, Heather Moore, who has been featured in Cookie, Town & Country and People magazines, will be here at Nesting this week!

Here's the scoop:
When? Thursday, November 19th from 10am-8pm
Why go? To meet celeb, Heather Moore herself and to view the entire collection. Refreshments will be served.
CSP Deal? 15% off if you order on the day of the show

Nesting
Specialty Shops on the Park
6401 Morrison Boulevard, Suite 16A
Charlotte, NC 28201
Phone: 704.36.NESTS (704.366.3787)
www.imnesting.com

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Smarty Dad - Boris Bunich

By Jenny D.


I am happy to introduce you to this week's Smarty Dad, Boris Bunich. And the timing couldn't be more perfect. Today, Charlotte Smarty Pants celebrates its second anniversary. And we wouldn't be here today, without Boris' wife and co-founding smarty, Jennifer Bunich. We are saddened by the lost of this wonderful mother, wife, friend and daughter, but her legacy lives on in Charlotte Smarty Pants, her gorgeous daughter Claire and wonderful husband Boris. We hope that you enjoy getting to know this special and oh so Smarty Dad, Boris.


Being a single parent, how do you do it all?

Even though I am a single parent, I am very lucky to have the help of a lot of family and friends. I am fortunate to have a wonderful relationship with my in-laws and they normally pick Claire up from daycare several times a week which allows me to stay at work a few more hours. On those days, we have dinner together as a family which maintains a lot of traditional experiences for Claire. It also allows her to have a really close relationship with her grandparents which I do not think is always the case when a parent passes away. My own parents also help me out a lot but that happens more on the weekends, which allows me to go out if I need to or get other work-related things done. Additionally, it provides a scheduled opportunity for my mother to continue to remind me about all of the things that I’m doing wrong! I’ve also been dating someone for a while now and she and Claire have developed a close relationship. While I’ve learned in the past year and a half to do so many things with Claire on my own, it is so nice to have someone in my life that can provide me with advice, a second opinion and an “are you really sure that you want to do what you’re about to do” look. Plus, Claire always has a blast with her and that makes me happy.

I know you have an amazing group of friends, tell us how they have become a part of Claire's life.
Both Jennifer and I had our individual large groups of friends when we met, so I am fortunate to be surrounded by a lot of people who are able to make a very positive impact on Claire in many different ways. One of my best friends and Smarty Dad, Himanshu (or Brown Bear as Claire calls him) is a stay at home dad with two boys and he is a great resource for me. Claire adores him and really likes to show off for him when we all go to the park together. We sit on the sideline and she gets on the monkey bars and yells at the top of her voice “Brown Bear, watch this!” That normally gets a lot of parent heads turning as they try to figure out what’s going on. All of Claire’s “Smarty Pants Aunties” are a great resource as well as they are always full of advice and ideas for me and are always willing to teach me how to deal with a little girl… ponytails, clothing, toys and bows. They even had a separate birthday party for Claire last year so that they all would have plenty of opportunity to celebrate with Claire in their own way. This year, Claire and I were invited to a Halloween party at the advertising agency that Jen worked for and even though Claire is too young to remember a lot of the people there, it warmed my heart to see the smiles on her face and on the faces of so many others there as they got to interact with her and see how much she has grown in the past 18 months.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a dad?
I don’t know if I can pick out just one part, so I’ll cheat and say everything. I love going into her room every morning and watching her wake up and enjoying how warm and snuggly she is when she’s still half-asleep. I love it when I go to pick her up from daycare and how she drops everything and runs toward me at full speed screaming “Daddy…Daddy… Daddy” at the top of her voice when she sees me come in. I continue to be amazed at the healing power of a kiss when she gets a “boo-boo” and I love that every time I ask her what she dreamed about when she wakes up, her answer is always “flowers, butterflies, rainbows and daddy”. I laugh when she’s telling me a story and all of a sudden pauses and says “Daddy, I lost my words” and I am astonished at how quickly all the stress and pressure of being completely responsible for her 100% of the time disappears when she sighs, thinks for a moment and says, “Daddy… I love you”.

What is your favorite place to take Claire for some Daughter/Daddy time?

The racetrack! It’s amazing how often she can pick winners from just looking at a list of horses and we’ve made loads of money together!

What is your favorite activity/place to go with your friends and their children?

We love going to the park. When it is a nice day outside, it’s a great experience to hang out with your friends as our kids play together.

You are a hard core Tar Heel fan, has Claire embraced this obsession?

DEFINITELY… Sure, it took a few extra minutes spent in time-outs until she would recite the entire fight song, but I think it was certainly worth it. I’ve also been really good about making sure that she knows that of the three mice that hang around Cinderella, the one in blue (who does not have a name in the story) is actually a rat and his name is Coach K. I don’t think that there is anything wrong with her learning early on which side of the UNC/Duke rivalry she needs to be on. Other than that, I am really good about providing her with plenty of Tar Heel clothing, toys and paraphernalia and when she turns 10, I am going to teach her how to always complain about the officiating… just like her dad!

What is the funniest thing Claire has ever said to you?
One time, when I woke her up, I was singing a song to her that I made up as she was getting dressed. All of a sudden, she pulled away, crossed her arms, looked at me sternly and said… “Daddy, pipe down, you’re giving me a headache”. While I have yet to determine where she learned the phrase, I am hopeful that her “constructive criticism” was aimed more at the volume of my singing rather than the quality of my voice.

Favorite place to take Claire to dinner?
Claire loves Brixx Pizza on Fairview Road. The food is always good and we always seem to run into someone we know. My favorite times are when we run into someone from her daycare there and the kids hug and act as if they haven’t seen each other in weeks when they just spent nine hours in a classroom together thirty minutes before.

Favorite stay-in activity?

This seems to change every couple of months, but right now, it’s definitely doll houses, dress up and pretend-cooking (Claire… not me). While I have no experience with any of these growing up, I have gotten really good at putting 3000 outfits on a Polly Pockets doll in the span of an hour, playing the part of a prince when she’s Cinderella or taking tasty “bites” out of plastic eggs, chicken wings or cookies.

What’s your biggest challenge right now?

The biggest challenge right now is trying to decide on a school and trying to decide whether to enroll Claire in TK or K next year. Since her birthday is in late July, I’m feeling some stress and getting advice on whether to push her a little bit and go for kindergarten to make sure that she will not be bored or give her an “extra year of childhood” and put her in TK so that she’s not one of the youngest kids in her class. I used the calendar on Charlotte Smarty Pants a couple of weeks ago to find out when school open houses are scheduled and I am trying to gather as much information as possible so that I can make an informed decision rather than resorting to the famous decision-making tool that men have used for generations….. the coin flip.

Thank you Boris, you are one Smarty Dad.

If you have a Smarty Mom or Dad that you would like to “mominate” please email us at info@charlottesmartypants.com.

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Snow ... In Charlotte??

By Tracy S

OK - Raise your hand if you think the weather is one of the best things about living in Charlotte. Of course, maybe not so much this week … but give me one of those Carolina Blue Sky Days any time and man! I love Charlotte! I remember one February shortly after I moved here where it was so mild, my fresh-from-Ohio-booty was parked out by the pool, calling all my family still up north claiming bragging rights for who had the best weather. BUT … I must admit, being an Ohio girl, eventually I did start to miss the snow. My gloating was replaced with stories from my sister of my nieces going on all day sledding excursions and memories of childhood snowmen and building some killer sledding ramps.

So imagine my delight when I found out about Snowpark Southpark! Seriously Smarties! Check this out --- Grab your warmest winter coat, gather the kids and make your way to SnowPark USA! SnowPark USA offers many of the same winter activities of the mountains, including snowboarding, sledding, snow play and more … all of this ... right in our own back yard!

Host to Charlotte Symphony in summer and now SnowPark USA in winter, Symphony Park will be transformed into a winter wonderland, covering the slope with a 9" blanket of powdery, man-made snow for all the zip zap zoom you can imagine. How cool is that? And in addition to the ramp and hill for the snow tubing and boarding attractions, SnowPark Charlotte will also include a Snow Play area, located in the covered Amphitheatre.

The park opens two short weeks from today on November 27 but you can get your tickets now and save $5. Check out their website for more info and to order tickets.

By the way - worried about missing out on the beautiful Christmas tree that that traditionally decorates Symphony Park? Don’t! It will still be there and rumor has it … even Saint Nick himself will make an appearance on occasion!!

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