Apps that Parent's Need (and not the food kind!)

Do you have a smart phone, and wish you could take it to its full potential?? Here is your chance.  As a working Mom of two,  I greatly appreciate it when I can find a good, wholesome iphone app that helps make my life easier.  I mean who doesn't? If I am going to have a cell phone attached to my right hand, it might as well be doing something FOR me.  Here is a quick review of a few cool apps that can be found on my iphone!  And by all means, please share your favorites!!

OFFER UP - Cost: FREE

This app is great for the parent who is ready to part with all of those outgrown toys and clothes.  I tried it out myself and found it incredibly EASY! As a newly started company, this app revolutionizes the way you post your junk on Craigslist!  Hold up that adorable dress that your child hardly ever wore, and the app helps you snap a picture, type in a short description and post it on their website where other Offer Up users can check it out.  Then, when someone wants to buy it, they can  make an offer!  To make things even sweeter, it will help you post on Craigslist too - talk about a time saver!

BABY CONNECT - Cost: $4.99

Although not free, if you want an app that will document every drop of pee and minute of sleep your child has, this is for you.  A friend turned me onto this app and I have to say, its been a life-saver! Essentially, this app is a living journal of what your child does all day, from the basics (eat, drink, poop) to milestones, activities, moods and more! 

The best part about this baby log app is that it can be shared across several 'caregivers.'  For me, that's been my nanny, my mother, and my husband!  If your not careful you can get carried away with this one, but for me its been a great way to communicate my newborn's feeding and nap schedule with my nanny throughout the day so that I can run home and breastfeed when able. The app operates by syncing with your  other caregiver's phones and will push notify you when entries you specify are added.   Plus, this app can create graphs, charts and email summaries of the data.  So next time when your doctor asks you how many pee and poo diapers your child has on average, you can actually answer with confidence...oh joy!

BABY MONITOR - Cost: $2.99

This one is sort of a no-brainer.  You are on vacation... you don't have a plug that reaches far enough...or you are at a friends house and just need to lay your little one down in the next room for an unplanned nap.  This app operates like a baby monitor by calling another phone you specify when it detects noise, at a level you specify.  You can actually set this one to play back your own voice recording at the first sign of noise,  although this seemed to me somewhat silly and useless.  The app  has a nice look and feel and it's super user friendly.  The best part, you can turn it on and have it play a song or lullaby (or white noise) from your music library so your wee one can drift peacefully to sleep.  In the past, these apps have made me nervous as I found they didn't always work well or had to constantly be reset when the phone rang, a text message came in, etc.  Although you should always periodically check on your child, and never leave them out of earshot, I found this monitor app worked much better and consistently than previous ones I've tried.

TOCA HAIR SALON - Cost FREE

This is just silly.  You have a toddler and you are trying to get through your conversation with your spouse (let alone your meal) at a restaurant and your 2 or 3 year old is done eating...now what? This app is what! My sister found this little gem and it keeps them busy for way too long.  With a name like Hair X-Mas, you know its going to be good.  This app let's you shave, grow, paint, and blow dry Santa's beard or a nice little Christmas tree.  Lots of tools to play with, lots of action, your toddler will love it.

EPICURIOUS - Cost: FREE

Not sure what to make for dinner? You are not alone. I can often be found standing in the middle of the grocery aisle (likely blocking someones way) staring at this app.  When you are not sure what to make, you can quickly and easily sort and filter through 1000s of recipes with pictures and reviews.  You can even specify particular ingredients or dietary restrictions to narrow down your conquest for the perfect meal. With a click, you can add it to your virtual 'shopping' list so you can cruise through the store with ease and worry about more important things like your child having a grocery store meltdown.  If you pay a little extra, you can buy the full version that syncs with your online account, making sharing among computers and other iPhones a cinch. 

IWRITE WORDS - $2.99 OR FREE (lite version)

If you are worried about the screen time your preschooler is getting on your ipad or iphone, you can actually feel good about this one!  This little program helps preschoolers trace and learn their numbers and letters.  In small steps, this app shows them the direction their finger needs to follow, and when they get it right, little icons drop down to play with.  I was skeptical when I saw my older nephew playing this one with ease, but sure enough, my daughter picked right up and loved the fact that she is writing real letters and numbers.  There is a free version, but if you want to avoid your kiddling trying to click on all the ads and such, spend the 3 bucks and download the full version. 

PANDORA - FREE

So this one is a given. Not only do we use it to stream music in the cafe, but I dock it in my kitchen when my daughter and I need to do a little dance while cooking dinner.  You choose your favorite song or a genre, and it will continue to play music that is similar to it! Great for music lovers who don't want to manage itunes accounts.  Best part? It's FREE! At least if you don't mind listening to a few Ads.  Or, pay around $10 for the year to get endless ad-free play. Here's our

Twirl Favorite Pandora Stations:

Adele (wind-down)
80's Disco Party (or, toddler dance party)
Christmas Classics (get festive)
Pink Martini (cocktail parties, or maybe you just want to feel suave)
Indigo Swing (cooking in the kitchen)
Caspar Babypants (kids need a sing along)
Jack Johnson (chillin with da kids)
Ocean Waves Radio (nearing nap time, kids are high strung, your nerves are high)
Today's Hits (feeling out of touch)

RUNNER'S UP:

Walk Score: App that tells you businesses within walking distance of your location, great for traveling!

Still Tasty: Find out how long those leftovers are good for (both in the fridge and freezer), then have it alert you when its time to toss!

Amazon Fresh: Now you can order your groceries for next day delivery, virtually anywhere?!

TELL US YOUR FAVORITE APPS!

Now Enrolling! Winter Mommy Matters Series!

Twirl Cafe is excited to host another weekly series of Mommy Matters, a dynamic workshop for moms of toddlers/preschoolers ranging in age from 18 months to 3.5 years old.

This engaging 8-week workshop is for moms who want to enjoy their lives while parenting a toddler and/or preschooler.  Mommy Matters addresses the whole mom and in-depth tools for handling discipline.

We want to make sure you understand that Mommy Matters is not individual or group therapy. This group is not for individuals in need of greater services than a 12 hour psycho-education workshop can provide. We are happy to provide you with referrals for more intensive services if that is appropriate.

Registration Required. Go to www.mommymattersseattle.com to learn more.

Workshop Location/Details

Dates: Wednesdays, January 25 – March 21, 10:00 – 11:30 am
Location: Twirl Cafe, 2111 Queen Anne Ave North, Seattle, WA 98119. 206-283-4552.


Childcare: Available on a pre-paid or a drop-in basis. Information is available upon request!
Please Note: Babies up to 6 months are allowed in the workshop. Older babies and toddlers need outside care.

Creating Family Traditions

At first glance, it's like something out of a J.Crew catalog...except these are real families and traditions! This winter, we are excited to bring our Twirl families the chance to preserve their special holiday memories.  My family and I sat down with Sarah and in 20 minutes, created a unique snapshot of what our winter holidays are often about, Scrabble, hot chocolate, and cozy family time. In my opinion, 20 minutes was the perfect amount of time to try and wrangle a 3 year old and a 2 month old for a photo session.  But that is the thing, it really didn't feel like the traditional "smile at the camera" sitting. We had a blast spending a few minutes together on the couch having a laugh and getting silly.    

I am happy to extend this experience to others as we open up our space to create a unique photography experience that will be a fun, timeless gift for you and your family that gathers the essence of what 'family' means to you. It's a chance to create and preserve tradition with your family.

How it works

Bring in something that signifies your family’s holiday traditions to show off in your mini session with Seattle’s premier child and family photographer, Sarah Vasquez of Hope and Memory Photography. 

For 20 minutes you’ll get Sarah’s undivided attention while she captures you and your family in the holiday spirit at Twirl Cafe.  Afterward, you’ll receive 5-8 proofs in an online gallery.  Should you choose to purchase photos, you will have the option of picking them up at Twirl on a designated day or having them mailed to you… all in time for Christmas! 

To Schedule Your Appointment:

Hope and Memory Photography, Sarah Vasquez

sarah@hopeandmemoryphotography.com

Live Mural Painting at Twirl Cafe with Ryan Henry Ward!

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE



Seattle Muralist Ryan ‘Henry’ Ward to Paint LIVE at Twirl Cafe

Come Watch a Seattle Artist in Action!


Date: May 26th , 2011

Twirl Cafe (2111 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle) is excited to announce that Seattle’s famed public muralist, Ryan Henry Ward, will paint LIVE at Twirl Cafe on Monday June 6th between 12PM and 5PM. Ryan Henry Ward’s whimsical and animal-themed art murals can be seen throughout the city in popular neighborhoods like Wallingford, Ballard, Capitol Hill, and SODO.


Twirl Cafe invites the media, elementary schools and preschools to watch him paint LIVE here in the cafe. Although the general public can drop by anytime, we are scheduling visits in 15-30 minute blocks for group visits. If you are interested, please contact Rebecca at info@twirlcafe.com to schedule an appointment.

Our play area will be closed during this time, but the cafe will remain open for coffee and lunch as usual.

Who is Ryan Henry Ward?

Ryan graduated with a degree in Art, Writing and Storytelling for Children from Fairhaven College in Western Washington. It was at Fairhaven that he began to focus on his writing, theatre crafts and painting. He has written and illustrated several books for loved ones, as well as illustrated children’s books authored and published by others.

Since June of 2008, Ryan has completed over 110 murals, and it is this body of work that he has become most famous for. Previous to becoming a public muralist, he had painted dozens of murals in private residences around the Pacific Northwest. He has created works in India and Thailand, as well as four murals in the Dominican Republic. Selling over 400 original canvases in Seattle over the past couple of years, Ryan's vision of creating primitive images with a dream like surreal quality has come to fruition... He wants the natural rawness of the painting process to show through his balanced, bright, and whimsical work.

* * *

For more information, please contact Rebecca Pelletier via email at info@twirlcafe.com

Mom and Me Night Out THIS Sunday! Get Your TIX!

For Immediate Release
Date: May 9th, 2011


FEATURING: MOM AND ME NIGHT OUT!

A night out for Moms and Tots!

In the spirit of Mother’s Day, Twirl Cafe is hosting an event just for Mom’s and their little ones (ages 0-7). This will be the ultimate evening play date! A great chance to celebrate MOM and build community.

The event will take place on Sunday, May 15th from 4-7PM at Twirl Cafe (2111 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle).

THE FINER DETAILS:

Tickets are for $28+ tax for Mom and Child. Individual tickets available.
Tickets and Event Website: http://www.twirlcafe.com/Mom_%26_Me_Night_Out_2011.html

Tickets Include:
Dinner and Drinks
Beer, Wine, and Champagne available for purchase
Lots of Milk and Goodies from Smith Brothers Farms
Glow in the dark Baby Disco, Parachute Play + Face Painting
Monitored Play Area Support by College Nannies & Tutors
Chair Massages with Laurie Swanson
Jewelry Display from Stella + Dot for your shopping pleasure!
Sweet Raffle Prizes, like 2 tickets to the Seattle Mom Prom, FREE play cards, and MORE!
Storytime with Tegan from Queen Anne Books!
Swag Bag, with discounts, including gems from Queen Anne’s newest Charley + May, City Mommy and Seattle Kids Dentistry

For more information, contact info@twirlcafe.com

Top 10 Reasons to Come to Twirl Happy Hour!

1. You don’t want to make dinner (we don’t blame you).



2. Your little one is doing laps around the house, why not bring the party here?


3. Your too tired to “constrain and entertain” your child at a restaurant table


4. You’re overdue for a catch up with your spouse or friends, even those without kids


5. You want to wear out your child before bedtime


6. We always have delicious Mac n Cheese that even YOU will go GA-GA for.


7. Your spouse is out of town and you need a break (and maybe a glass of wine!)


8. Your babysitter is on duty and the kids need to eat!


9. Because you can’t remember the last time you were able to go to “Happy Hour” with friends?


10. Because our menu contains Organic, Local, Gluten Free, Vegan, and All-Natural choices!

Join us for Happy Hour!
Thursday through Saturday
5-8pm
 
FREE Open Play
Beer and Wine Selections
HOT Weekly Dinner Specials
FREE Parking in our Garage. It's that easy!
http://www.twirlcafe.com/
 

Mom and Me Water Exercise Class at QA Pool!

I recently attended the Mom & Me exercise class at the Queen Anne Pool. I had a blast, and was compelled to write about my experience to let other Moms know about this fun class!  Armed with a heavy toddler in a wet life jacket, noodles, and balls, we began a great workout around the pool.  We lifted up the kids, swished them around the water and got in some lunges and abs too.  It was a great arm workout, and a fun bonding time with my 2.5 year old. Her last pool experience was overwhelming and  included a busy pool with lots of splashing, so this was a great way to get her back in the water.  After a few nervous minutes, she was laughing and kicking.   Being 20 weeks pregnant,  I always jump at a chance to get into the pool to feel weightless for just a few moments, so this was a great excuse!  If your looking for a fun afternoon water activity, this 30 minute class is for you! Roust the kiddo after nap, and come jump and splash with other Moms and tots. Laura and I will be there for sure!

The class series just began, but you can still join!

What: Mom & Me Exercise Class
Where: Queen Anne Pool, Seattle Parks and Rec
When: Mondays 2:30-3:00pm
Who: You and your little one!
How Much: $6.00 drop in or series pricing available
BONUS: Walk around the corner to Twirl afterward and get a $1 Off Open Play! Just mention QA Pool.

CD Release Party: Polly-Glots !

Check out the CD Release Party happening for our friends at Polly-Glots! Information about the event below:

DATE: March 24, 2011

WHEN: 10:30-11:00 French / 11:00-11:30 Spanish

WHERE: Starbucks 1600 East Olive Way, Seattle, WA 98102

WHY: It's a free event for you and the kids!

Foreign Language makes this an event that's fun and GOOD for you!

WHO: Parents, Educators, kids alike!

RSVP: This Starbucks is big but space is limited. Please RSVP to kim@polly-glots.com

Red Tricycle Play Dates at Twirl Cafe

Twirl Cafe is excited to continue our Community Play Date series with Red Tricycle!!  You've been asking - so here it is! We are excited about the next series of play dates.  It's only as fun as you make it - so let your neighbors know and bring the kiddos for a fun time! 

 1/2 price Admission with matching zip codes so bring ID or Mail!

RSVP here  and get entered into a drawing for a free punch card!  Let us know you are coming, and see who else might be there!

Red Tricycle Play Date Schedule

Magnolia / Queen Anne 98199, 98119, 98109   2/3 3-5pm

Greenlake Area 98117, 98103   2/3 10-12pm

Madrona Area 98144, 98108, 98118   2/10 10-12pm

Ballard 98107    2/10 3-5pm

University / Ravenna 98115, 98105   2/17 3-5pm

Bellevue / Kirkland *NEW All Zipcodes   2/17 10-12pm

Capitol Hill / Eastlake 98102, 98122   2/24 10-12pm


Downtown Corridor 98101,98121, 98104   2/24 3-5pm


Mercer Island *NEW 98040   3/3 10-12pm


Madison Park 98112   3/3 3-5pm

 

West Seattle  98116, 98126, 98136, 98106   3/10 3-5pm

North Seattle *NEW 98177, 98133, 98125, 98155

Think we missed your zipcode? Or want your neighborhood to have a play date? Let us know! We are continuing to grow our coverage area, based on demand.  info@twirlcafe.com

Photo courtesy Rachel Caprio www.rachelcaprio.com

This SUNDAY! Come Play with a Purpose & Support Street Youth!

Twirl Cafe  and

Street Youth Legal Advocates of Washington (SYLAW) presents:

Play with a Purpose!

Join us at Twirl Cafe
Sunday, January 30th
10am-1pm


Admission fee: $10 / Child (donation)

* 3 hours of play at Twirl Cafe
* Art Station for the kiddos
* Raffle Prizes, 2 for $5
* Food and Beverage
   Beer and Wine available for Purchase


We are opening our doors Sunday for a special charity event.  What better way to support homeless youth in our community AND enjoy your sunday morning! 

SYLAW is a non-profit organization that provides civil legal representation, information and education to homeless and at-risk youth. Primarily, SYLAW seeks to help youth with housing, education, employment, family law, consumer law, and public entitlements.



Twirl Cafe
2111 Queen Anne Ave North
Seattle, WA 98109
206-283-4552

Meet Trainer Jill! Sign up for MamaTone Fitness!

Our MamaTone Fitness Series is beginning Next Thursday, January 20th at 10AM.  We still have spots left, so MOMS sign up for this awesome workout class, and get your New Years Resolutions on track!  This group work out is for all skill levels.  You won't be disappointed. Email info@twirlcafe.com to register for MamaTone.  5-Week Series, $70.

Introducing Jill!

Jill Bruyere is one of the leading health and wellness experts in the area. She is a certified health professional by the American College of Sports Medicine. Jill holds a BS in Exercise Physiology and a Masters in Sports Leadership from the University of Washington.


Jill has been training and teaching bootcamp fitness at the Washington Athletic Club for the past 10 years. She also trains and leads her own bootcamp business in West Seattle.

Bottom line - Jill teaches a motivating and challenging class that gets her clients the results they desire. If you are serious about losing weight, tightening and toning your body, MamaTone fitness is for you!

Learn more about Jill here: http://www.runwithjillbootcamp.com/about.html