Speaking of photos…Here’s our secret.  Create a photo book of the kids from the prior year.  Include the holidays, school concerts, Halloween, the kids baking brownies, walking on the beach, eating ice cream, hanging from the jungle gym.  Remember, just the past year, ‘cause you’re gonna do this again next year.  We’re building a library here….
We’re not talking an old-fashioned photo album, we’re talking a professionally bound, hard-covered book, captions and all.  While there are several online companies that do this (www.ourhubbub ...

A website we love is www.naturopathica.com.   For those in the Hamptons, their spa is a delight (Joyce digs the reflexology/foot massage).  And they are pleased to offer our readers an exclusive discount of 50% off their French Lavender Soothing Bath and Body Oil, 4oz.  And for you lucky locals, Book a massage or facial on weekdays and get 25% off.  Just mention the work “macaroni” when booking the appointment.

www.naturopathica.com

If Jewelry is more your (or your mom’s) style, check out www.planetjill.com.  They have adorable personalized jewelry like pendants and bracelets with photos built in.  The photos and jewelry are completely waterproof (and apple juice proof) and in addition to your own photos, ie of your kids, you can have your own saying inscribed in the design.  And, they are offering 10% off to Macaroni Moms, just enter "Macaroni" in the discount code section.

www.planetjill.com

Let's build a playground.  So far we're about halfway to our goal of building a playground for kids in Ecuador.   One playground costs $1,800, that's it.  We are asking our readers to take 5 minutes to help.  It's simple to donate, visit the site http://www.peoplehelpingpeople.info/How_To_Help.html  and click on the "donate" button at the bottom right of the screen.  If we all donate $5 or $10, we can easily make this goal.  Thanks to those who have helped so far, and ...