Mommy FTW

Summer is almost officially over, but there’s still lots of time to fit in some fun Brooklyn adventures!   The post below is mostly a re post of the information I gathered on my first visit to the Prospect Park Zoo back in April – but maybe you missed it!  If you haven’t checked it out yet with your toddler, make some time to go and see it.  It’s not the most impressive zoo on the planet, but it’s a good size for little kids.

The main goal of  this post is to give you an idea of what to expect in terms of getting there, parking, and a little extra information to make your trip as easy as possible while still toting your little one(s).

How to get there and Parking:

My route, parking location, B,Q Station, and Entrance point to the Park and Zoo are marked.

Coming from Fort Greene, I found the easiest way to drive there was straight down Washington Ave – though the Prospect Park Zoo website recommends driving down Flatbush. There is no parking lot – so if you drive you will need to find street parking. I had thought this would be challenging, but going at 3pm on a weekday, I didn’t have any issues. I parked on Washington Ave near where it intersects with Sullivan Place (Pink). It turns out this was a decent spot, as there are actually two entrances to the zoo – one further in the park down Flatbush, and one near the carousel closer to the Flatbush Ave and Empire Blvd intersection (Green). I think in the future, I might give parking on Flatbush a try just to see if I can get a little closer. But my walk was certainly less than 10 minutes from the zoo entrance. This entrance near the Carousel was also the closest to the B,Q,S Prospect Park Station (Purple).

The Entrance point I used, Vending Machine Room, Barn area, Baboons, and Stairs are marked - click to enlarge.

A few other things of note (Food, Stairs, What’s Cool):

There is no real food to speak of sold at the zoo. There is a room with vending machines (Purple) – some sell drinks, some ice cream, and one hot dogs I think – or maybe pretzels? I didn’t really investigate it. Hot dogs from a vending machine? Yikes. Anyways, definitely bring some snacks or even pack a whole lunch. At the Flatbush entrance to the zoo there’s a huge set of stairs to navigate (Red) which isn’t so great if you’re bringing a stroller. There’s none at the other entrance I used. Also, if you are going to check out the sea lion feeding, you might want to stand on the south side of the Sea Lion area (Light Blue). Most of the action faces this direction, and you will get the best view. Sea Lion Feeds are at 11:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m., & 4:00 p.m. The most favorite part for all the kids was the Barn with the domestic animals (Pink) which is basically a petting zoo type thing. I think it was exciting for the kids to see and touch a cow – even hear the cow let out a hearty MOO! In order to get out of the sun for a bit, we went to check out the Baboons (Blue). I think Cameron personally had more fun just exploring the building than looking at the animals – whatever floats your boat!

Posted from New York, New York, United States.

On a recent hot and humid summer day Cameron and I headed to the Brooklyn Children’s Museum (located at 145 Brooklyn Avenue – @ St. Marks Avenue) for the first time.  I had heard it was great fun especially for the kids, so I was excited.

Cameron and I drove over – it’s a pretty quick and easy trip down Atlantic Ave to Brooklyn Ave.  I had been worried about street parking… but it worked out beautifully.  In this neck of the woods street cleaning happens from 8:30-10am.  The Museum opens at 10am.  Perfect!  So, when I got there at a few minutes after 10 there was ample parking directly across the street.

Admission to the Museum is a little steep at $7.50 per person – only children under 1 are free.  They stamp your hand so that you can come and go as many times as you like in one day.  Keep this in mind if you want to head out for lunch.

Cameron was first drawn down the main hallway in the center of the Museum which has a lot of flowing water and mechanical things to observe.  Our first exhibit was Neighborhood Nature.  There’s a pond the kids can look in from below getting a “fish eyes view,” some stuffed ducks which Cameron enjoyed pointing out while yelling “duck!” “duck!”

There’s a Community Garden where the kids can dig and play in the dirt (which is really just ground up cork – don’t worry they can’t get dirty at all!)  There were supposed to be watering cans and shovels the kids could play with, but there didn’t seem to be any around.  I thought there was supposed to be a place to touch horseshoe crabs and starfish – although I saw some sort of water area, there wasn’t any staff there, and I didn’t see anything larger than a gulf shrimp in them.

From here we made our way to the Science Inquiry Center.  Cameron loved the bird, chameleon,  and snake that live in here.  There was some sort of shell display with knobs Cameron slid back and fourth for a solid five minutes.  I think it was supposed to do something – but it looks like it was broken.  There were coloring pencils and paper around the kids could draw with.  There was also a light table with shapes for the kids to play with.  We unfortunately had to leave this area before Cam was done because there was a Birthday Party on the way.

Next we checked out the World of Brooklyn exhibit.  Cameron played the steel drums, got dressed up in a Carnival outfit, and touched everything in the West African Import Store.  He also really loves sitting on the Vespa.  We evacuated this area as two camp groups swooped in.

We turned our attention to the upstairs area, where we found the 30,000 object collection (which we had to flee as there were some toy cars which Cameron got upset about because they were behind glass).  Then we went to the Children of Hangzhou exhibit.  Cameron really loved the big water buffalo, but unfortunately you weren’t supposed to put the kids on it for a ride.  He found some buttons which controlled a video that he could push relentlessly, which he really enjoyed.

It was getting close to lunch time so we headed over to the Cafe.  I was pretty disappointed – the salads and sandwiches looked old and sad, and the hot food options – mini pizzas and chicken tenders – looked pretty unappetizing.  I decided to skip the food and feed Cameron at home.  I would recommend packing a lunch, or checking out the local neighborhood for something to eat.  The Museum website lists a few suggestions.

On our way towards the exit I finally spotted Totally Tots.  I had heard about this section from other moms, and probably should have headed here first.  As the name implies, this area is designed for toddlers.  Everything is at their level, and there’s lot of fun toys.  There is also a water are for the kids to splash around in.  Smocks are provided so the kids stay dry.  Cameron had a lot of fun, but it was getting on to nap time, and Cam was hungry, so we headed home.

Overall, Cam had a great time, and it was a nice way to spend a hot summer morning.  I was a little disappointed – most of the exhibits seemed pretty warn, with a lot of things broken or missing.  But I guess it doesn’t really matter since Cameron didn’t know or care.  I think for older kids they might find it a little annoying.  I would certainly consider going back, but perhaps on a free day. Free hours this summer are the second and fourth weekend of each month from 2-5pm.

For more information check out the Brooklyn Childrens Museum website at BrooklynKids.org You can also find them on Facebook and on Twitter.  For a list of all the current exhibits, check out this page of the Children’s Museum website.

Posted from New York, New York, United States.

The fact that there is a Target in Brooklyn certainly isn’t news to anyone, but I often forget to check it out when it comes to Cameron. I went recently and was happy with all of the great stuff I found.

Bubbles, sidewalk chalk, and more!

On the second floor in the toy area, there is practically an entire aisle of bubbles. The ones I ended up are a real hit at the playground – children follow me around like the pied piper, and parents ask me where I got them. You can also pick up sidewalk chalk (50 pieces for $3.99!)

I was also able to find some great sandals and summer shoes for around 10$ each. Cameron loves them so much he refuses to wear any other shoes – so I bought him a pair in the next size up as well. The toddler / baby shoes are on the first floor with the rest of the shoes. There is a “boy” and “girl” isle – I didn’t realize this at first, and I kept wondering why there were only girls shoes!  It was a blond moment!

Currently in the kids department there are also swimming trunks, sun hats, and protective sun shirts (rash guards).  I got Cameron his swimming gear for our upcoming vacation at a great price.

So if you are in need of summer supplies, drop into Target and pick up a few things.

Posted from New York, New York, United States.

I am all about cutting Cameron’s hair myself – it’s free, and after all… when else in his life can I give him a really bad hair cut, and he won’t mind? But, after over a year of at home cuts Cameron’s hair was getting pretty out of control. I’ve never been really able to get a good cut around the ears or in the back. So I decided it was time to bite the bullet and call on the professionals.

In my neck of the woods, LuLu’s Cuts (48 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, (718) 832-3732)‎ is pretty much the place to go. I was able to get Cam a same day appointment. Unfortunately, although we showed up on time, they were running about 15 minutes behind schedule. I was stressing because we had to get home for Fresh Direct, but Cam was having a great time playing with the huge train set that is in the front of the store.

Once it was our turn, they put Cameron in a firetruck chair, which he thought was pretty cool – especially the bell on the front.  They gave me some options for videos to put on (Sesame Street, Dora the Explorer, etc) that show on a little TV in front of the chair.  Cameron was having a grand ole time until the cutting began, and then he freaked out.  But, the stylist kept on going without batting an eyelash.  She was done in 10 minutes.  I did my best to keep Cameron calm, but it didn’t really help.  Once he got his balloon at the end, everything was honky dory again… and his hair looked great!  They also gave me an adorable little certificate with a lock of his hair commemorating the experience.

So, was it worth the $22 for a child’s cut?  I say yes.  Would I do it every time Cam needs a trim?  Most likely no – I think alternating between home hair cuts and professional would be just fine for now.

During our little heat wave a few moms and myself took our toddlers to the Prospect Park Zoo.  While not exactly the most impressive zoo on the planet – it’s a good size for little kids.    Hopefully this post is to give you an idea of what to expect in terms of getting there, parking, and a little extra information to make your trip as easy as possible while still toting your little one(s).

How to get there and Parking:

My route, parking location, B,Q Station, and Entrance point to the Park and Zoo are marked.

Coming from Fort Greene, I found the easiest way to drive there was straight down Washington Ave – though the Prospect Park Zoo website recommends driving down Flatbush.  There is no parking lot – so if you drive you will need to find street parking.  I had thought this would be challenging, but going at 3pm on a weekday, I didn’t have any issues.  I parked on Washington Ave near where it intersects with Sullivan Place (Pink).  It turns out this was a decent spot, as there are actually two entrances to the zoo – one further in the park down Flatbush, and one near the carousel closer to the Flatbush Ave and Empire Blvd intersection (Green).  I think in the future, I might give parking on Flatbush a try just to see if I can get a little closer.  But my walk was certainly less than 10 minutes from the zoo entrance.  This entrance near the Carousel was also the closest to the B,Q,S Prospect Park Station (Purple).

The Entrance point I used, Vending Machine Room, Barn area, Baboons, and Stairs are marked - click to enlarge.

A few other things of note (Food, Stairs, What’s Cool):

There is no real food to speak of sold at the zoo.  There is a room with vending machines (Purple) – some sell drinks, some ice cream, and one hot dogs I think – or maybe pretzels?  I didn’t really investigate it.  Hot dogs from a vending machine?  Yikes.  Anyways, definitely bring some snacks or even pack a whole lunch.  At the Flatbush entrance to the zoo there’s a huge set of stairs to navigate (Red) which isn’t so great if you’re bringing a stroller.  There’s none at the other entrance I used.  Also, if you are going to check out the sea lion feeding, you might want to stand on the south side of the Sea Lion area (Light Blue).  Most of the action faces this direction, and you will get the best view.  Sea Lion Feeds are at 11:30 a.m., 2:00 p.m., & 4:00 p.m.  The most favorite part for all the kids was the Barn with the domestic animals (Pink)  which is basically a petting zoo type thing.  I think it was exciting for the kids to see and touch a cow – even hear the cow let out a hearty MOO!  In order to get out of the sun for a bit, we went to check out the Baboons (Blue).  I think Cameron personally had more fun just exploring the building than looking at the animals – whatever floats your boat!

I was at Trader Joe’s last week and as I entered the Court Street store an employee asked me if she could park my stroller for me.  “Oh my God – you guys do that?!” was my reaction.  I took my valuables, threw Cameron in a cart, and sent her off with my stroller.

Waiting for me at the check out!

They park them at the end of the check out line, right before the lane of cash registers.  After we did our shopping, we waited in line, and pick up our stroller on the way out.  It was awesome!  Cameron is much more entertained when he gets to ride in a grocery cart – so it made my shopping experience much easier.  Next time you head over to Trader Joe’s – ask them if you can park your stroller!

I am excited to say that in May we’re going on vacation somewhere warm – and not in the US!  So, we needed to get Cameron his passport.  Since the Pratt Post Office is closed, I had to find somewhere else to submit his application.  I searched online at the usps website and found that the Adelphi Station was the place I should check out.  The website said that I needed an appointment – so I got on the phone and called.  And called.  And called.  No one ever answered.  I moved on to another post office – the Cadman Plaza Branch.

Again, the usps website said that I needed an appointment.  So I called – the phone was answered by an automate service saying if I was on a touch tone phone to press 1, and then I was routed through a few menus finally ending up at the passport application people.  The phone rang.  And rang.  And rang.  No answer.  I tried over and over again – with no success.  Finally, I called and when asked if I was on a touch tone phone I said that I wasn’t – and I got a real live person right away!  So, if you are trying to reach someone at Cadman Plaza – I suggest you take this route.  Although, when we got there it didn’t seem to matter that I had an appointment. Good thing I put all that effort into it!  I would just recommend that you show up a few minutes before the passport window opens so you can be first in line.  The whole thing took about 10 minutes.

Cam strikes a pose

Anyways, there’s a few necessary things for getting your baby a passport:

1) A passport photo – we got ours at the local Walgreens.  It was easy – they had him stand on a crate and snapped the pic with a digital camera.  1 hour later – voila!  Passport Photo.

2) Fill out the passport form – it’s called DS-11 (you can do this online, and print it out and bring it with you).  Be sure not to sign the form until you are in the presence of the passport agent.

3)Your baby’s official birth certificate with both parents name on it.

4)Your baby’s Social Security Card.

5)IDs for both parents – Drivers License or Passport will work.

6)Copies of the IDs that can be sent in with the passport application.

7)Both parents must show up when applying for the passport.

Check the official government page to read all about the documents required to get a passport for a minor, and to fill out the passport form online.

Recently I was contacted by Tres Belles Spa (105 Bond Street, Boerum Hill) and asked to write a review of their services as well as help them reach out to other moms.  I went in for a facial, to check out the location, and to talk to Allison Tray, the owner.  It was a tough job, but someone had to do it!

Petite, but perfect for moms in need of TLC!

Allison opened Tres Belle Petite Medi-Spa spa 6 years ago, although they just moved to their current location in December 09.  When she moved in, she totally renovated the space – and though it is quite small, it manages to be serene, and certainly has enough room to do the job!  I treated myself to a basic facial.  It was very gentle and relaxing; I left feeling refreshed, and my skin was looking great.  I’ve had a lot of facials where afterwords I look like I’ve been attacked by the esthetician, but this was not the case.  She managed to do my extractions and leave my skin toned, polished, and glowing – but not red.  To me, this is a big deal!  I noticed when I was there that the owner and staff seem to know everyone who walks in the door.  I am sure that this closeness with the clientele would lead to increasingly better service – after all, the better someone knows your skin, the better they can help take care of it.  So, I am sure the more times I go back, the better the facials will be for me, and the more tailored they would be to my specific skin issues.

Get your facial + relaxation here - you know you deserve it!

I talked with Alison a little to find out more about her business and the services they offer.  It turns out that Tres Belle is a family business, run by Alison and her Dad (aww!)  She says, “My family had always had family businesses so it was a natural progression that my Dad and I ended up working together. We have always been close and my Dad has a really great sense for business and I love helping people feel confident.”

I asked her why she was reaching out to moms specifically, and she smartly answered, “Moms often forget that it’s important to take a break even if it’s once a month. Many clients and friends are Moms and when they come to Tres Belle it’s like they can have a bit of their sense of self back. Moms give on a constant basis and it feels great to be able to provide them with much needed attention, not to mention adult conversation!”  So true – and that is one of the main reasons I wanted to write about this on Mommy FTW – I know I don’t give myself enough time to relax, and do things just for me.  So I hope that I can encourage some of you to spend some time on yourselves!  If I have to bribe you with discounts, then so be it!

Tres Belle is apparently well known for its laser hair removal – something I’ve always been curious about, but admittedly know nothing of.  “We were honored to have been voted Best Laser Hair Removal in NYC on Citysearch for 2009 [ we also won in 2006, 2007, and 2008]!”  Allison bragged – and rightly so.  That is quite an honor!  “Our most popular package is definitely our Bikini Package. Moms never know when a day at the beach or pool is going to sneak up on them. With all the things you need to do to just get out the door, your bikini area should be a non-issue. Most clients require 10 visits to get to a permanent reduction of up to 85-90% but see results and skin improvement with just a few sessions.”  Personally, I think I might be sold on this one.  I am not a fan of the bikini wax, and not having to plan ahead for time at the pool would be fantastic.

So, for those moms who need to be pampered a little (which I am assuming is ALL of you!!) I encourage you to check out Tres Belles Petite Medi-Spa – it’s just on the other side of Flatbush pretty close to the Dekalb Ave train station.  FYI – if you are looking for some more opinions before you book, then check out their reviews on City Search – they are positively glowing!

Allison has kindly offered Mommy FTW readers some discounts : $25 off any facial plus every facial will include a free add-on of hand massage, and 10% off all laser packages.  Just mention “Cameron” when you book your service.  Pampering at a discount?  Who can resist that!?  Give them a call and book yourself an appointment – You deserve it, and you won’t be disappointed!

Tres Belle Petite Medi-Spa
105 Bond Street
Brooklyn, NY 11217
Phone: (718) 797-0033
Online at tresbellespa.com
Become a Fan of Tres Belle on Facebook

Usually when Cameron and I go out for lunch we end up at 67 Burger.  I can’t deny that we both LOVE their food!  Plus the staff is always so friendly.  But mom and baby can not live on sweet potato fries and burgers alone, so I was in search of somewhere new.  Celia, mom to Claire and fellow Brooklyn blogger (check out her site, Chic Squirt) recommended that I try Il Porto (37 Washington Ave Brooklyn, NY).  I admit my husband and I order pizza delivery from there all the time, but I had never actually been to the restaurant.

Under the BQE and to Il Porto we go!

So, Cameron and I ventured over there one afternoon to check out the scene.  They had plenty of room for my stroller, and also had a few high chairs.  The wait staff was very friendly and made Cameron and I feel welcome.  I ordered the gnocchi right away (per Celia’s recommendation).  I also got some bread for Cameron to snack on.  The pasta came quickly – and it was SO good!  Cameron was suspicious at first (as always) but once he saw me enjoying it, he gave it a try.  Success!

Cameron waits for his gnocchi. Also pictured Skip Hop Plate

So Fort Greene and Clinton Hill mommies (and daddies) if you are looking for something yummy for lunch, try Il Porto – and try the gnocchi – it’s perfect finger food for baby, and mighty tasty for you!

Want more info on Il Porto?  Check out this Lunchtime with Tillie review from Clinton Hill Blog.

Cameron and I had such a great time in DC over Christmas that we are going back down today.  We’re taking the train together – so I will be sure to report on how that goes once we return!

I’ll try to post while I’m gone, but in case I don’t – have a great week everyone!

Check out some great posts you might have missed to keep yourself busy:

Free Infant CPR at the Brooklyn Hospital

Reading for Babies at the Clinton Hill Library – a great winter activity

My Pediatrician’s remedy for pesky Diaper Rash

My sleep training bible – Healthy Sleep Habits Happy Baby

Dealing with a leaky diaper?  Maybe it’s time to go up a size

And check out my posts about What Cameron is Eating