New Merchants Added!

Our S.M. Token is now accepted at

Cabello Salon 80 West Circular St

and Bettie's Cupcakes - lower level Downstreet Market Broadway


S.M. Token holders login at http://www.SaratogaMama.com

Remember, your token is widely accepted in Saratoga County and online for all of your holiday shopping, dining, and family fun needs!

12/3 Mama's Night Out In Ballston Spa!

Saratoga Mama Night Out Event at Genevieve's Home + Garden!!
Celebrate the ONE YEAR Anniversary of Saratoga Mama with us!!

When: Thursday December 3rd at 7pm
Where: 55 Front Street Ballston Spa, NY
RSVP: to hello AT saratogamama.com by November 30th

Exclusive discounts at one of the best spots in town for all who attend this mama's night out plus a take home holiday gift! We had such a great time making our tea cups for Mother's Day. Come decorate your own votive courtesy of Christi Tacy and her lovely shop! Enjoy snacks and beverages and get some holiday shopping done!

2 Area Shops Closed This Month

Sadly we have to announce 2 SM Token merchants who have closed.

Haute Mama Maternity on Church St. and Spa City Cupcakes.
WE have heard that Bettie's Cakes will be in the Spa City Cupcakes spot, and we are working on partnering with them!

Please support local merchants as often as you can. It is so sad to see them go. Using your SM Token supports them, supports charity and the gleaming copper on your key chain will remind you to take your money to town instead of shopping big box and online.

There are SO many great shops, restaurants and services in Saratoga County that participate in our token program! Our SM Token makes a GREAT holiday gift and it is affordable at only $20. Plus 10% benefits charity. Free Gift Wrap and card.

get yours at http://www.SaratogaMama.com

Co-Mama Elizabeth Welcomes Baby Eleanor!

Saratoga Mama Co-Founder Elizabeth Russell welcomed Baby Eleanor Marie last Thursday night October 15!

We cannot wait to show her off and we hear she is a great nurser and big brother Andrew is very proud!


Welcome Eleanor!

Events + Special Offers This Month for Our Members!

SPECIAL OFFERS::



Expires November 15th, 2009

Jennifer is a local Saratoga Mama and very talented designer!
She is offering our group a discount of 20% off a custom toy
portrait for a limited time. Custom Toy Portraits are a great way to
keep the memory of your child's favorite toy or lovey alive forever.
Jennifer's work has been featured in galleries and on national
design blogs!

Call (518)542-1897


http://www.customtoyportrait.com



EVENTS::

{Angel Names Memorial
Walk}

Saturday
October 17, 2009 12:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Saratoga Spa
State Park Columbia Pavilio Saratoga Springs, NY

Join us on 10/17 as we walk
in remembrance of babies lost through miscarriage, stillbirth
and infant death. 
All who have been touched by the loss of a baby are invited to
attend.

The day includes children's
activities and light refreshments. There is no fee to
participate; fundraising is optional.
MORE INFO
WWW.ANGELNAMES.ORG





{Wheatfields
Restaurant & Bar Gnocchi Making Class!  440
Broadway}

Sunday October 25th 11am-1pm


Celebrate World Pasta Day with Wheatfields

$24 adults $8 children. Take away a gift of fresh Gnocchi too!

Reserve your spot: 587-0534







{Genevieive's Home + Garden Fall Open House}

Friday Night November 6th, 2009 6pm

Go and see the latest in fall and holiday decor!

Shopping specials all night long, open and free to the public

 

G. Willikers Takes the Token

When you are planning your holiday buys for the kids, and kids you know think G. Willikers! They give Saratoga Mama token holders 10% off of their purchase of full priced merchandise!

We have also had a lot of birthday parties since school started and G. Willikers always has the brands that we love to buy.

get your S.M. Token today! 10% benefits a local charity!

Now Open! Round Lake Library Malta Branch

This past weekend we visited the brand new library at the Malta Community Center. We are so excited to have such a close and brand new option for the rainy and cold days we know are upon us.

They have a great little kids spot, equipped with this truck which my girls loved to sit in and read their little books.

We will post the storytime schedule as soon as we have it but for now, please visit the Malta branch of the Round Lake Library and we hope to see you there among the stacks!

Malta Branch Hours:

1 Bayberry Drive Malta, NY 12020

Monday-Thursday 9:00am-1:00pm and 4:00pm-8:00pm

Friday 2:00 pm-7:00pm

Saturday 9:00am-2:00pm

Closed Sundays

Lizzie's Fashion During Pregnancy #3

This time around I have a new approach to fashion. There are a few reasons for this. Read about them over at Pregnancy & Newborn Magazine in my column "Straight from the Belly".



-lizzie
co-mama
Saratoga Mama

New Look to Our Website!

Our website has a new look! Come and check it out. Stay tuned for new meet-up information and events and don't forget to sign up for the forum mamas!!

Saratoga Mama Forum- Join Today!

We have started a forum for our Saratoga Mama members.

Please visit, join for free, and introduce yourself! Chat with other area moms, post items you are looking to unload, find out about events, and what shops you can use your token at! Please do not post your business. We offer inexpensive advertising for that.

JOIN

see you there!

New Event: Mama's Green Night Out 9.14.09

Visit Saratoga Mama & RSVP at hello AT SaratogaMama.com

Mama's Night Out This Thursday

Saratoga Mama's-

Join us for a fun evening of shopping and dining on Broadway this Thursday night!

When: 7.23.09
Time: 7:30pm
Where: Violet's Saratoga

The first 15 mama's in the door get a FREE Strapper! The Ultimate Bra Accessory!



We will be meeting at Violet's Saratoga for some shopping and demonstrations on how to use The Strapper as well as how to wear this seasons best accessory, the Cardi Wrap. See what is hot for wearing to the track, and enjoy 20% off of one regular priced item!


After we are all shopped out we will head to Wheatfields around 8:30pm! They have a new menu and lucky Saratoga Mama's will receive a complimentary dessert! Canolis, Flourless Chocolate Cake, the choices are all delicious!

Night Out Event Violet's + Wheatfields

{MAMA'S NIGHT OUT - JULY23rd}




{SHOPPING,
THE STRAPPER + DESSERT}



When: Thursday 7.23.09

Time: 7:30pm

Where: Violet's 482 Broadway + Wheatfields Restaurant- Saratoga Springs, NY

RSVP:

hello AT SaratogaMama




Join us for a fun evening of shopping and dining on Broadway! The first 15 mama's in the door get a FREE Strapper!
The Ultimate Bra Accessory!



We will be meeting at

Violet's Saratoga for some shopping and demonstrations on how to use The Strapper as well as how to wear this seasons best accessory, the Cardi Wrap. See what is hot for wearing to the track, and enjoy 20% off of one regular priced item!







After we are all shopped out we will head to

Wheatfields around 8:30pm! They have a new menu and lucky Saratoga Mama's will receive a complimentary dessert! Canolis, Flourless Chocolate Cake, the choices are all delicious!

Spit and Spat

Every time we go to Congress park (or drive within a half mile radius) Ruby (now 5) asks if we can go see Spit and Spat. You know, the fountain nestled into the back east-side of Congress Park. Spit is on one side, Spat on the other, and we could hang out there all day.

Congress Park may not have swings, or slides, but it does have the Carousel, and it has a lot of room for running and playing. Historical buildings and statues to look at, and of course ducks to quack at. It is free to visit and we are lucky that it's there. When I was Ruby's age I used to sled there on "Devils Backbone".

Here is a shot I got with my Blackberry camera of Elizabeth and Andrew making a wish at Spit and Spat.

-Lizzie

Haute Mama Mocktails Event

Last thursday we had a great event at Haute Mama Maternity on Church st. The mocktails were fabulous and refreshing and the chips and salsa from Cantina have been on our minds ever since!



We had a great discussion lead by California BabeStuff owner Rachelle about cloth diapering!


Please keep an eye on our events and meet ups page for more great Mama's Night Out + park meet ups!


Sarah Otto of Haute Mama 27 Church St. s.m. Token holders get 10% off reg priced merchandise!

Picture Perfect

A couple of weeks ago, we had the fantastic opportunity to get together with Ashley from Ashley Brown Photography for a photo shoot with our children. Not only was Ashley great with the kids, but the images she captured were amazing. I think the photos say it all:






I am so pleased with how amazing these photos are and am struggling to decide which prints to buy - I want them all! I am even happy with how I looked, especially with my ballooning (five months pregnant!) belly. The flattering and super-comfortable navy matte jersey dress from Veronique Maternity definitely made me feel great which shows in the photos. Lizzie looked great, and stylish as usual. Top BCBG at Violets on Broadway, Jeans David Kahn, also at Violet's. Her necklace, "the Mama" from Tali Gillette, was the perfect accessory for that dressy-casual look we were going for at our photo shoot in the park.

If you are looking for amazing custom portraits of your children, we highly recommend Ashley Brown Photography. With Ashley, you get so much more than you might at a chain store studio. Your kids will be at ease in a comfortable, familiar environment. Ashley does a great job creating a unique and customized experience for each client and her work is truly a reflection of her talent. As she says:
"My sessions are simply playdates with the intention of capturing your child as they are. No expectations, no rules, no formalities. Don’t be surprised when you find me lying on the floor, playing with trains and talking about Dora. If fabulous family portraiture is what you are after, I’ll probably suggest grabbing an ice cream cone, going for a nature walk or letting me accompany you to get your Christmas tree. All I ask is that when you book your session, you throw all preconceived notions of a “traditional portrait session” out the window." ~from Ashley Brown Photography

Stay tuned for details about our upcoming event with Ashley Brown Photography and a chance to have your own complimentary mini-session in the park!


girls dresses:
on Ruby
on Elkë

So Fortunately Convenient

Recently, after a particularly grueling 45 minutes of stroller aerobics on a rainy morning, a friend and I were craving some time to catch up, a nice late-morning beverage and a snack for our sons. We considered going downtown but were strapped for time (aerobics ends around 11, naps just after lunchtime, plus travel time... you get the picture) and worried about finding parking. So, we decided to check out The Fortunate Cup Coffee Cafe at 120 West Ave, just up the road from the Saratoga YMCA branch. I was skeptical, as I usually am - I find my favorites and definitely become a "regular" most places I go, but was so pleasantly surprised!

First of all, there was tons of parking behind the building.
It is one level down from the Cafe. We left our strollers in the cars and took the stairs, but there was an elevator for customers too. I was completely surprised at the ambiance in the cafe - for a coffee shop inside an office building, I didn't expect a whole lot. But the space was extremely inviting complete with a fireplace and couches as well as tables and chairs. I was even a little envious of the folks who work in the building and get to hang out in there on their breaks! It was pretty busy at 11:15 a.m. with a mix of what seemed to be students along with professional folks. Basically, your standard coffee shop crowd. There was plenty of space, though, and we opted for a table in the back so the boys wouldn't disturb anyone working or studying (there is free internet access too). We found the highchair stash and scored 2. I headed to the counter to place our order, where I was greeted with a display case full of tempting treats. I stuck with my plan, though, and ordered a smoothie (customized, of course, which was no problem for the F.C. folks) and bacon-egg-and-cheese panini for the baby. My friend had a coffee and turkey panini. Now, I think its normally an order and wait sort of establishment where you take your own food to the table and bus your plates to the trash when you are done, but the woman who took my order kindly offered to bring the food back to us since we had the kids in tow. This was awesome because I didn't to worry about the little guy throwing a fit when I left the table again!

Our food & drinks arrived in just a few minutes and everything was fantastic. Next time I will definitely be ordering my own breakfast panini - they are served on a Belgian waffle and the couple of bites I stole from the baby were delicious! Along with custom roasted coffee and hot & iced beverages, The Fortunate Cup also serves locally made gelato, grilled breakfast & lunch panini, wraps, salads, soups and tons of baked goods - something to please every palate.
All in all, a convenient and delightful experience. Next time you are looking for a place to meet friends for a coffee or lunch - with or without the kids - check out The Fortunate Cup on West Ave!

the Seaons Must-Haves at Violet's

Violet's is a great boutique. Right on Broadway, across from the post office. Owner Laura Farrar has impeccable taste and she can dress anybody on any budget. Saratoga Mama's who have the s.m. Token save 10% on every purchase at Violets!

We will be having an event there in July and we are so excited as she will be showing us some great ways to dress up or down for track season.

For now we wanted to share with you our must-haves and must-gets from a recent visit to the store:

The Cardi-Wrap is a very flattering way to cover up when it is a bit chilly. You just never know these days how the weather will start off and we love wearing these with anything from jeans to shorts. Laura tries her best to keep a good selection in stock, but they FLY so head to the shop and get yours today.




Another great look for Spring/Summer is an industrial belt over a feminine dress. The pairing is perfect for the effortless downtown look. We put the "Cancer" necklace on the mannequin for this photo as the medallion necklace is a great gift for your Cancer sign girlfriends this July. Of course Laura has all of the other astrological signs in stock as well.






So there you have a little taste of what Violet's has to offer. Be sure to stop in and say hi to Laura and use your token soon! 482 Broadway

The Flowers Are Going In

Summer is really here in Saratoga. The city is working hard and putting in the lovely flowers that they always do to bring Saratoga Springs to life for the season!

I remember when we lived downtown when I was growing up and our house on Union Ave.
#56 Union Ave to be exact. It was a Queen Anne to Condo conversion project that my mother did with her realty firm that she worked with, and it makes me proud to think of her as a working mom. Anyway we would drive west on Union Ave to take the right onto Circular and the sign that was replanted each day with that day's date in flowers that said SARATOGA always gave me a smile.

I took a quick shot this morning with my blackberry phone when I was on Broadway of the beds around each tree that line the street. At first when I was driving and late for my appointment I was frustrated at the trucks lined up with all of the flowers in them because I couldn't find a parking spot. But Now I am over it. The delay was well worth it for the beauty.
{Lizzie}

I just cant get enough!

Lately, I just can't seem to get enough of Spa Cascada. It all started at the mama's night out last month, when I fell in love with the ambiance at the spa and had one of the best-I've-ever-had eyebrow waxes with Amy. Then, a few weeks ago, I treated myself to an amazing facial with Amy as a Mother's Day gift to myself. It was a fantastic way to spend a relaxing and refreshing Saturday afternoon. My skin needed it too - I am about 20 weeks pregnant and this pregnancy has not been kind to my skin. Hair and nails are great, but I have had some awful breakouts and rosacea flare ups compliments to my English and Irish genes and some dreadful pregnancy hormones. Amy recommended the Vital C line from Image Skincare, and I indulged. Usually, I am a 'whats on sale at the drugstore' kind of girl when it comes to facial cleanser and moisturizers. This line has changed my mind! After sampling and subsequently purchasing the cleanser, I returned to the spa to check out the moisturizer. Amy and Katherine let me check out samples of the rest of the line, including a day serum, nighttime moisturizer, sunscreen, masque and even a hand cream! I love it all and my face does too - the breakouts are all gone and the rosacea is finally clearing up. Usually this time of year I've had a couple burns from gardening in the spring sun but not yet, thanks to the awesome sunscreen. It smells great and I know its not full of pore-clogging chemicals.

Then, last Thursday I had a minor emergency. We were on our way to NYC for the weekend to attend a swanky wedding in Tribeca and I realized that I hadn't had an eyebrow wax since the mama's night out! As usual, the ladies over at Spa Cascada were super accommodating and fit me in first thing in the morning. I had another fantastic wax, this time with Mary. I just couldn't resist on my way out and grabbed a new tubs of mascara. It was a complete afterthought but I was so glad for my impulse. The spa carries Blinc Mascara which is an interesting concept in mascara - it coats the eyelashes with "tubes" of the product rather than 'painting' the lashes. The package claimed it was water, tear and sweat proof and would roll off the lashes gently with a bit of water and gently pressure. I was skeptical at first but very pleasantly surprised! Not only did it hold up ALL day walking around the city and through the evening at the wedding, but it did truly roll right off in little tubes when I washed my face before bed. No running, no crusty eyelashes, no racoon eyes. I think I may start using the stuff every day - and if you know me at all this is monumental, I hardly ever wear any makeup!

Don't forget to check out the Image Skincare line and Blinc Mascara at Spa Cascada, or treat yourself to a eyebrow wax for a quick pick-me-up or even a relaxing spa facial! I recommend them all with flying colors. AND - don't forget your S.M. token for 10% off on all Spa services!

Spa Cascada :: 487 Broadway, 2nd floor

10% of your Shopping Token Purchase Goes To Angel Names

Now when you purchase an s.m. Token, 10% of the proceeds benefit Angel Names, a local organization.

We are excited about this association as we believe as mothers that their cause is very important, and one of our own Saratoga Mama members is very active. It is important for us to support each other and raise awareness about a lot of opportunities in the community such as great places to shop, play, dine, and of course organizations that we feel our members would like to know about.


About Angel Names::


Angel Names Association (ANA) was founded in May of 2001 by Michelle and George Mosca, six months after the stillbirth of their firstborn son, Nicholas. For the Moscas, Nicholas' death underscored the need for financial resources and supportive programs for bereaved families. ANA's programs are designed to ease the financial burden imposed by stillbirth, provide supportive programs and services for families enduring the trauma of stillbirth, and raise money for stillbirth research.

Although ANA's primary focus is on stillbirth, several of its programs are designed for families who endure miscarriage, stillbirth and infant death.


Click here to buy a token for only $20. It looks fabulous on your key chain and they are the talk of the town. Use yours to get exclusive discounts at your favorite Saratoga and Ballston Spa shops and dining hot spots as well as spas and children's activities! http://www.saratogamama.com/smcard.html

Some of the local spots that take the token::
Circus Cafe
Wheatfield's
Dawgdom
Haute Mama Maternity
Scallions
Paperdolls
Spa Cascada
Village Sweet Shoppe
Ben + Jerry's
+ MORE!

New Token Spots!

We are so excited to announce some brand new merchants that now accept the s.m. Token! If you don't have one please get one at our website so that you can partake in the fun around town! 10% of the token sales benefit Saratoga Center for Family!


Compliments to the Chef - Broadway
Virgil's House - Henry street
Tiny Tots Tea Room - Clifton Park

online: Pineapple Grove Gifts

s.m. Token holders visit the shopping page to find out each merchants generous offer!

Mother's Day Mama's Night Out - Thank You!

Thank you to everyone who attended last week's Mama's Night Out at Genevieve's! And a big thanks to Christi of Genevieve's for hosting us, providing us with some tasty lemonade and cookies, and for the fantastic project. All who attended got to get out their green thumb and make an adorable teacup-flowerpot complete with a whimsical paper butterfly. I gave mine to my own mother on Mother's Day and she loved it - especially the butterfly! Here are a few photos of our crafty Saratoga Mamas:







Check out our website for info on our upcoming events - and mark your calendars for another great night out at Paperdolls of Saratoga & Scallions Restaurant on June 4th!

YUM! Pizza

You know it. You have seen it. But have you tasted it? Did you know that at lunch time it's packed with moms and dads meeting downtown for lunch with strollers in tow?

D'Andrea's Pizza has been at 33 Caroline street for as long as I can remember. The outside decor is iconic and the menu is filled with delights from "Grubs" (hot grinder subs) to gourmet pizzas. I grew up in the area so I remember hitting D'Andrea's at 3am (they are open till 4am on Fri+Sat) with my friends after a night of partying or after one of my husbands gigs. I don't get to stay up that late now but if I did I would be right back there!

Stop in next time you are downtown. Rory and his crew would love to serve you and your kids and your s.m. Token gets you 10% off! The discount is good on delivery too- so just let them know that you have it when you call up and then show it at your door.

{lizzie}

Where can you use your s.m. Token? Lots of Places!

Here are the spots where your s.m. Token is accepted in Saratoga County- More will be added very soon! Most Recently- Saratoga Saddlery at 460 Broadway! The s.m. Token is only $20 and will pay for itself in just a few visits to your favorite shops, spas and restaurants. 10% of each token purchase goes to charity. The local charity will be announced within a few days here on our blog! The token is a great gift for your out of town friends too who like to visit. They can continue to use it online all year round and when when are in town they can show it around Saratoga County. The token NEVER expires.

saratoga county shops, restaurants, spas
Aggie's :: 454 Broadway upper level
Ben + Jerry's :: 34 Phila St
Circus Cafe :: 392 Broadway
D'Andrea's Pizza :: 33 Caroline St
DAWGDOM :: 441A Broadway
Genevieve's :: 55 Front st Ballston Spa
Haute Mama Maternity :: 27 Church St
Just Plain Good :: 490 Broadway
Living Well Center + Spa :: 18 Low St Ballston Spa
Malta Wine + Liquor :: Kendall Way Malta (RT 67+9)
PaperDolls of Saratoga :: 80 Henry St
Saratoga Beads :: 80 Henry St
Scallions Restaurant + Gallery :: 44 Lake Ave
Silpada with rep Kara Rosettie
Spa Cascada :: 487 Broadway
Spa City Cupcakes :: 454 Broadway lower level
Village Sweet Shoppe :: 24 Low st. Ballston Spa
Violets :: 482 Broadway
Wheatfields Restaurant :: 440 Broadway

MORE COMING SOON!
ONLINE SHOPS OWNED BY SARATOGA AREA MOMS
Aurora Bella Designs
What Every Baby Needs


When you have your token in hand you can get your discounts at these area retailers. As a token holder you also receive a secret password that shows you the discounts at all of these stores plus lets you shop with secret discounts at these online stores!

Bitty Braille
Catbird Baby
Chic Tots
Circle of Sentiments
Couture Invito
Cute As Buttons
Erin Condren
Gissy Bella
Groovy Paper
Hedvig Bourbon
Julian & Co
Karen Cole Paper
Made By Angie
momAgenda
Mango Ink
Monkey Toes
Myself Belts
Pacifier
Plain Mary
promomcouture
Ribbies Clippies
Simply Silhouettes
Tea Collection
the happy tomato
tj&co
Uncommonly Cute
Wet Happened?


If you are a retailer interested in carrying the s.m. Token contact us at hello AT SaratogaMama.com

Happy Mother's Day

Good morning mama's! We just wanted to say HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!


The Genevieve's Mother's Day Night Out Event was so great and we had a lovely time making our teacups! We hope that you did too and that you will join us at our June night out when we make scrabble pendants and shop for stationery at Paperdolls. Then we will head over to Scallion's for some food +drinks!
Please RSVP at hello AT saratogamama.com if you can come! Checkout the events page.


We have added new mama meet-ups (with kids) for the next few weeks and they are on the new mama+kid meet-ups page. They are also listed to the left. We are going to be rotating parks and we hope that you are as excited about the "Witching Hour" meet-up as we are!

Enjoy your day- do something special for yourself. Even if it is just a walk around the block in peace or a shower and blow dry with no interruptions!

Elizabeth + Lizzie

If You Like Saratoga Mama, You Will Love the DailyStroll!

Saratoga Mama co-founder Lizzie Sorensen has been writing the DailyStroll for going on 5 years. This popular website spans the globe and reaches thousands of moms a day in the DailyStroll newsletter. The newsletter features one designer or piece of merchandise tailored to moms who shop for baby, maternity, women's clothing, home accents, food, and toddler to youth fashion. The goal is to highlight independent mom-owned companies and also work-in classic companies that stand the test of time.

This month if you subscribe to the DailyStroll you will be entered to win a $150 gift certificate from Erin Condren!




Also, it seems that everyone is having babies left and right. If you are looking for the perfect gift for the Expectant Mother or New Mom in your life, or a little something for yourself (you deserve it), take a look at our growing Expectant + New Mom Gift Guide! Exclusive offers are everywhere in the guide and it only runs through July so if you see something that you like- grab it and remember to use your coupon codes listed on the ads.

More Cheese Please!

I love the farmers market for many reasons, and try to go every week. I believe it is important to support local businesses, especially farmers. I also think it is ecologically responsible to eat both locally and seasonally. Plus, super fresh produce (as in picked hours before I buy it) just taste better! Aside from the produce, though, there are a few farmers whose products keep me coming back to the market week after week. One of those is the Argyle Cheese Farmer.



In our house there can never be enough cheese. I love it, and my husband's two favorite foods are cheese and bacon (thank goodness he also likes to run!). As a food chemist with several years experience working in the commercial food industry I have pretty discerning taste when it comes to basically all food, including cheese. The products that Marge & Dave Randles make at their farm are in, my opinion, delicious. My favorites include the cheddar cheese curds, which come plain and in several flavored varieties. Another weekly staple in our house is their yogurt. I love the Vanilla Cream and feel good feeding it to my son because it is made from all natural, hormone free whole milk. I even visited the farm last summer and got to see the cows that make the milk that makes the yogurt! Marge and Dave also whip up lots of other yogurt flavors as well as an awesome Greek yogurt - great for using in recipes or just eating. The "Schmear" is delectable. Kind of like a rich cream cheese and great for spreading on crackers or french bread, or using in a dip. I have even seen cheesecake samples at the market that were made using the plain Schmear. Yum!

This week, I was really excited to see a new product offered the Argyle Cheese Farmer - Smoothies.



There is a little bittersweet history here - last summer, Marge and I had many conversations about me going up to the farm and helping out with developing this product. As many of you moms might relate, it was just really hard for me to find the time, get a sitter and get up to Argyle. Fortunately, they didn't need me! I was proud (and my tastebuds were oh so happy!) to see they did it with out any of the "extra" ingredients you might see in a grocery store smoothie. Their smoothie has just their yogurt, fruit purees depending on the flavor, and a hint of maple syrup for that all natural sweetness. On Saturday we picked up some of the Berry flavor which Andrew polised off in his sippy cup by Sunday morning. I re-stocked with the Apple-Strawberry flavor at the Wednesday market last night and am looking forward to trying it out with lunch today.

Oh, and I almost forgot the cheese! Our favorite is the Caerphilly. Its a cheddar-type cheese. Super creamy and just a bit crumbly, with a subtly delicious hint of tanginess. They also have several other kinds of "real" cheese made from both pasteurized and raw milk.

Stop by the Argyle Cheese Farmer at the Saratoga Farmers Market (High Rock Ave, Sat 9-1 and Wed 3-6) and taste some of their yummy cheese, yogurt and smoothies - and don't forget to let them know that Saratoga Mama sent you!

Wednesday Afternoons at Saratoga Farmer's Market

It was 3:50pm today (Wednesday) and the girls starting fighting. I called Elizabeth and told her that we needed a change of scenery and fresh air. She said she had just arrived at the Farmer's Market so we got there in a jiffy.

It was of course lovely and chocked full of amazing fresh flowers, produce, hot coffee, and a cute little table that we noticed at the Farmer's Market shed. If we gave a donation to the Shelters of Saratoga, Ruby (almost 5) could plant a flower for me for Mother's Day.

Ruby hadn't done much planting yet in her life so her little friend Logan who was working the market showed her what to do and we left with a great parting gift. They will be there this coming Saturday as well so you can bring the kids and let them plant a flower and have the same great experience.



We will be working closely with the Saratoga Farmer's Market this summer to let you know about all of their special events and ways to give back while you enjoy the service that they provide. View their calendar

{lizzie}

Shopping Spy This Week....

We have spotted several good deals this week and we need to tell you about them.

First of all there (as of Monday) are 3 Maclaren Volo strollers in the kids toys/gear section of TJMaxx at exit 15. They are on sale in box and brand new for $79.99! The regular price is usually about $124. So if you need a perfect, light summer stroller for hitting the farmer's market, or cruising up and down Broadway or through Ballston Spa, RUN to TJMaxx!



Also, Ocean State Job Lot on DoubleDay/Milton Ave in Ballston Spa has real Crocs for Men and Women for only $10! They were not allowed to advertise the brand name in the papers but we were there, we saw them, and there are a bunch left! There are also Nalgene Bottles for Mama's and baby. We picked up 2 of the Grip-n-Gulp. PERFECT For keeping water and juice cool on a hot spring and summer day. The kids love them. They were under $5 if we remember correctly!




So there you have it bargain shopper mama's! Have a great time scoring your finds and come back here to comment and tell us what you found this week around town! Email hello AT saratogamama.com with your shopping finds and photos and we will post and tell everyone where to score a great bargain!

Why Saratoga Mama?

I often say to myself and others "I cannot believe that I spent the first 18 months with Ruby alone". Sure I had my family close by and an adoring husband. But I was alone. Without any friends who were moms, and without any playdates or nights out with moms that I could relate to. I simply cannot believe it.

Since Ruby was born, and before, I have worked full time. I work for my self and own a PR firm as well as the DailyStroll, so I have a zillion friends online (not the shady kind who you aren't sure if they are an 80 year old man emailing you), but real legitimate friends who are fellow mom entreprenurs like me. See for a living I launch and manage the PR campaigns for designers of baby, maternity, and toddler goods. I also discover these designers and showcase them on the DailyStroll to thousands of parents everyday around the world. So moms are my business and I am surrounded by them.

My clients are from all over the United States and Canada and I work on and off during the day from about 8am to 11pm and also on weekends. In the beginning before my blackberry, Ruby and I barely left the house. I am very close with some of these women because we share so much in common, we chat often, and it's almost like it is not even work. I love it, but at a point when Ruby (now 5) was about 18 months and we moved within the Capital District to a new house, it hit me. I have no other friends who are moms. My husband and I were sort of pioneers in that respect. He is a rock star and so are most of his/our friends. They were living it up on tour buses and we were home with a baby. This was great, but we were on a different path now.

In our new town of Niskayuna/Schenectady I found a local moms group and managed to make some playdates and nights out here and there. But for me, a working mom, I was still on a different path than a lot of the other moms I met, and I couldn't always make the morning playdates because in order to get work done Ruby had to go to daycare. Things have shifted a lot in the last few years. Elkë was born and as Ruby got older and involved in more things like preschool and going to the park, I met more moms and formed more bonds. When we moved from Niskayuna last summer, I really missed my local friends. Niskayuna is not that far away, but when you just need someone to meet you at a park for a half hour to fill up some time instead of staying home and ripping your hair out, it is just too far away.

I had made so many friends online and still cherish those relationships, but I also made a friend through the DailyStroll who would be the answer to what I needed and what she and I knew so many moms in my new area would need. We needed Saratoga Mama. Elizabeth was and is a loyal fan of the DailyStroll and we chatted a lot via email for months. Her husband was convinced that she was chatting with an 80 year old man and that I didn't exist. Luckily for the both of us we were legit. We joked last spring that we should start a "Shoot the Shit" club. Because I found myself to be a failure at my mom's group Book Club, and other mainstream mom's group things that were going on in the former organization that I had belonged to. Finally in the fall of 2008, we said, no really- let's do it.

Why not a "mainstream moms group"? Well- I felt stressed at the community aspect of a moms group and I think Elizabeth did too. Plus, Saratoga already has several. While I enjoyed having new friends, I always felt like the group organizers needed something from me. Fees, bi-law voting, etc. I would have been very happy to cook meals for moms who just came home from the hospital with a bundle of joy, or to open the community center every Thursday, but I couldn't make those commitments. I have a full time job plus 2 small kids at home.

We wanted to organize and launch a moms group that breaks the mold. I think that I can speak for the both of us when I say that we are so excited, honored, and lucky to have found all of the Saratoga Mama members so far. We had high hopes that the group would be one that would fill a void for moms all over Saratoga County who needed exactly what we are providing. We provide information to our moms, but all we ask in return is that you join us at meet-ups and night's out events. No bi-laws, no forum, no responsiblities. We figure, you are adults, you run households, have jobs, have great kids, when you are out at one of our events, you can make friends with you who like, and we will all become a close community. We will rally around a member who just gave birth and needs some meals, we will naturally divide off and have our own book club if we choose to. But no stress. A laid back group of moms who know that it is important to leave the house and meet-up for playdates, and it is important to take time for yourself and have a night out.

We also came up with the concept of the s.m. Token because we are both savvy entreprenurs and we know that it is important to shop locally, and that we live in an amazing area to do it in. The merchants and the moms who have the token are giddy when they talk about it and that makes us giddy too! So giddy up Saratoga Mama's and thanks for being a part of our organization. No mama should have to endure the joys and trials of motherhood alone.

{lizzie}

A Colorful Correspondence

To me, there is nothing more delightful or surprising than receiving a handwritten note or letter in the mailbox. I love it so much that I send something to someone (usually my sister, an aunt or out of town friend) at least once a week. In fact, I have an entire file-sized drawer in my desk dedicated to stationery. I am always on the lookout for new fresh and colorful paper goods to add to my stash and brighten someone's mailbox.

Last week, I found a new favorite at PaperDolls of Saratoga at 80 Henry Street. Just in at PaperDolls is the stationery collection from Lilly Pulitzer. The collection is perfect, ranging from everyday to elegant and all with Lilly's signature cheery botanical designs and bright colors.



The Lilly Notecard Book is just my style - 10 tear out style cards in a variety of patterns paired with solid colored envelopes with adorable bamboo bordered to & from address spaces. The cards can't get lost in my big filing drawer and the envelopes tuck neatly into the box.



For you girly-girls out there, the Lilly Dress Note Cards are super cute with die-cut dresses that kind of remind me of a luau with Lilly's vibrant floral patterns.



A bit more elegant, the flat Letterpress Correspondence Cards just say classy. Made from thick textured paper and with simpler versions of Lilly's patterns they are perfect for a short note or thank you. To me, the lemon design is perfect for summer. I can just see myself opening the mail on the porch with a cool glass of lemonade - receiving one of these along with the usual bills and credit card offers would be a treat!



Imprintable cards are also available and can be personalized right at PaperDolls. If you like having your name or initials on your correspondence, these cards are perfect. They would also make a great graduation or birthday gift! Also keep in mind that you can get free personalization on any purchase made at the Saratoga Mama event at PaperDolls on June 4th! Details here.



Now, if you aren't one for snail mail there are many other choices for you in the Lilly line at PaperDolls - the circle notes would look great on any kitchen counter or desk. There is also a great sticker & label book that includes "this belongs to" and to/from labels along with floral and graphic seals to match the entire line. Pens are available in several patterns which would round out a gift of stationery nicely.

PaperDolls also carries several other fine collections of stationery including one of my all time favorites, Crane & Co. They have a large variety of unique designer greeting cards perfect for special occasions and the upcoming wedding season. From custom invitations and announcements to everyday stationery essentials and unique planners and journals, PaperDolls has it all. Check it out and tell owners Cora and Sarah that Saratoga Mama sent you - and don't forget your S.M. token for 10% off your purchase!