What to do With an Almost 3 Year Old Comes to an End

Sad, but true, I took Henry and his mama and dada to LaGuardia this afternoon for their trip home. It was a great week with lots of activities and good times! The next time H comes to CT, he'll be 3 and we'll have to find some new adventures!

Instead of partaking in the traditional "black friday' activities we drove to Stratford and bounced our way to a good time. Bounce U is the perfect place to get out some pent up energy. They have an activity called the Open Bounce a few times a day and it's a good idea to call ahead and sign up. They break up the kids into two separate age groups, under 6 and 7 up. This is great because if you have a little one, you won't have to worry about the older kids running around and playing a little bit rougher than you might feel comfortable with. The Open Bounce lasts for 1 and 1/2 hours. They start the kids in one room then switch them in 45 mins. so both age groups can enjoy both rooms. They have T-ball, giant slides, basket ball hoops, a Sumo wrestling ring equipped with giant gloves & Sumo outfits. They of course have large spaces to bounce in. There are party options for that special day and a room where the kids can take a break and have a snack.

On our way home we drove up Black Rock Turnpike and stopped at The Rugged Bear. Henry had a little accident and the staff was extremely helpful. They let us use the restroom to clean up then let H roam around in his diaper and vest. We found a great pair of pants on sale and we were ready to go. We weren't hungry, but if we were, A&S would have been a great place to by an Italian sub for the road.

Before our ride to the airport, DeeDee had one more adventure up her sleeve! I thought a little excitement would be a great idea before a plane ride. A true adventure...EarthPlace an nature discovery center is Wetport would be perfect. I love EarthPlace! They have live animals that have been injured, a colony of vultures, two bald eagles, rabbits, an indoor play area, lab and a fabulous outdoor playground.

While we were there today Miss Betsy had show and tell. We were able to pet a bunny and snake and learned quite a bit about both. For instance, did you know that pythons eat once a week? One of the resident pythons actually went five weeks without eating once! They have exhibits, programs and a nursery school. It's tucked away at the end of Woodside and also offers various trails for walking and exploring.

After all the excitement, we went to Coco Michelle in Westport for a quick hot chocolate. It's a European style hot chocolate and they call it a ChocoLatte...yummmmmmmmm! They also offer excellent coffee and handmade chocolates along with fresh baked goods. The coffee is FairTrade which is a bonus. It is now located across the street from the Westport train station.

I hope you have enjoyed the series and that I was able to share some places you might not have known about. Stay tuned for the next series. Happy Holiday's!!!

Visiting the Firehouse in Fairfield!

Sorry for skipping yesterday, but by the time I got done, making the pumpkin pie, cranberry sauce, persimmon pudding and marinating the turkey it was already Thursday so I figured I'd wait! It's not so easy being the cook and trying to entertain that almost 3 year old!

To be honest, Henry was a bit under the weather and our adventure yesterday had to be short, but fun. What better adventure could there be for an almost 3 year old boy than to visit the local fire department? When Henry was in, in June, we visited the Westport Fire House where we saw beautiful new trucks, a rescue vehicle and a diving boat! The fireman on duty was super sweet and spent quite a bit of time with us. When we left, Henry got to take home a plastic fireman hat that he still has.

Since we were crunched for time, we went to the Fairfield Fire Department. I think that one of the requirements to being a fireman, is a love of children. The firemen in Fairfield were just as sweet as the ones in Westport and showed us some things we didn't get to see at the Westport Fire Department. Henry's favorite was the pole. Yes, they really do have a pole at the Fairfield Fire House! It's the first one Henry and his parents have encountered and you wouldn't believe the excitement on Henry's face when the fireman came sliding down...priceless!! The firemen in Fairfield wear leather helmets instead of the new composite style ones that are being used today. They were very cool looking and you could almost see all the stories that they could tell. This time Henry got to take home a fireman hat and a coloring book with safety tips.

From there, we headed over to Borders for a quick tour of their kids section. It's tucked away on the second floor and they have a very good selection of books and toys. If Henry had been feeling better, we would have crossed the street and gone to either Sweet Rexies, a kids paradise, or PinkBerry for a tart yogurt.

As for today's activity, we decided to head back to Compo for some more outdoor fun. This time the beach was packed with adults and kids of all ages. There were also plenty of dogs romping around and having a great time with their owners and the kids. Starbuck's was opened so we got a hot chocolate then headed home to finish up preparing our Thanksgiving Dinner.

I'm off to finish cleaning up and to plan tomorrow's adventure. It all depends on the weather...indoor or outdoor activity. We'll see when we wake up.

Happy Thanksgiving to all!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Adventure Continues, Day 4

We woke to a gorgeous November day and felt that at 65 degrees, we needed to be outdoors! After packing a goody bag full of snacks and drinks and a snack bag for Cello, my Spinone Italiano, we were ready to go.

Our first stop though was Coffee an' Donut Shop in Westport on Main Street (across the St. from Bogey's). If you love donuts and want something special, this is the place to go. These tasty treats are homemade and you can get anything from a plain old fashioned to a coconut twist. My personal favorite is the cinnamon, crunchy on the outside and moist on the inside...yum! We were lucky it was during the week and after 9a.m. so we didn't have to wait on line. If your travels take you there on a weekend, be prepared to wait on a line out the door. You can also sit at a table or even better at the counters and have a regular breakfast. It's the place to go for that small town feel!

With donuts at the ready, we drove to Compo Beach in Westport. I love the fact that I can let Cello run off leash and play with other dogs. You can walk for quite a stretch although if you go with your dog, part of the beach requires you to put your pooch on a leash. Henry ran around, threw rocks in the water, collected seashells and thought it might be fun to swim like Cello.

Another great feature of Compo is the large playground. It was rebuilt a few years ago and it is a kids dream. With swings, rock climbing area, bars, slides and towers, there's something for most age groups. Dogs aren't allowed here so Cello and I had to sit by the sidelines and watch Henry explore with his mama and dada while pop-pop clicked away. The area is also totally fenced in and has plenty of benches for those parents or grandparents that need a break.

There is also a skateboard park for the more adventurous!

Tomorrow is day 5 and we're going strong. How does a morning at the fire station sound? Find out in tomorrow's installment of "What to do in Fairfield County with an Almost 3 Year Old".

Stepping Stones is the Activity of the Day!

Day 3 of "What do with an Almost Three Year Old in Fairfield County" was spent at Stepping Stones Museum in Norwalk. Wow, what an incredible space! Stepping Stones was closed for a bit of make-over and it was worth the wait; they did a great job. This past Saturday was the grand re-opening, just in time for the Holiday weekend...phew!

They have revamped the water section of the museum and it is now part of the Energy Lab. They have lab coats at the ready and hand dryers to dry off those wet little hands when the kiddies are done. The wind display was cute, but it seemed to need a little more wind power while we were there. Climbing up and through the tunnel was still fun.

There is a toddler play area that was packed so we ended up heading towards the health area. Here Henry was able to wear scrubs, a white coat to brush a giant set of teeth like a real dentist, scuba gear and a helmet and knee pads to ride on a bike with a skeleton that mimicked his movements. Henry's favorite was the construction site. After we geared up, a vest, hard hat and tool belt, we filled a "paint" can with paint brushes, shingles and paint sticks and set to work.

The Rain Forest had "mama & dada gorilla" with several "baby gorilla's"...Henry thought they were very cute. We took a "ride" up a tree and saw a live web cast of an Ecuadorian rain forest. We didn't make the "Rain Forest Canopy" movie...maybe next time. The outdoor playground was closed for a movie shoot which was a shame since it's such a cool spot.

After a quick trip to the gift shop, we headed over to the Westport Library. The kids section is located on the 3rd floor and is filled with books, cd's, toys and videos. Depending on the day, you can enjoy crafts, story time and so much more.

If you have a little one coming in for a visit, they have a great service called "GrandKits". You can either call or email ahead of time, tell them the age group of your visitor and their "likes" and voila, when you come in, you have a pretty sizable bag of goodies to take home. I know that when I did this for Henry, it was a real winner!

Hmmmm, what could be on tap for tomorrow? Stay tuned for day 4's "adventure"!!

The Maritime Aquarium Wins Out!

The UBS Parade in Stamford was going to be our destination for the day, but The Maritime Aquarium won out in the end.

For those of you have not been to the Aquarium in Norwalk, you should really make the effort to visit. It's right on the water and has tons of cool things to do. You can take a 2 hour boat ride, although they do have a minimum height so make sure to check, build a boat, see a movie at the IMAX Theatre or get some energy out in the indoor play space.

You can see the penguins, pet the sting rays, count the hidden flounders and gaze at the jelly fish. They have seals that you can view from the exterior of the building or the warmth of the museum. The kids love seeing them swim in circles and the best part is feeding time, which they have posted so you won't miss it.

The turtle exhibit was interesting, especially the giant sea turtle. Henry could have spent quite a bit of time just watching him swim around and moving the large stones around. He got a kick out of seeing "baby" turtle hang out right next to "mama" turtle.

I think our favorite exhibit was of the meerkats. Boy, were they fun!!!! I couldn't believe how cute they were. At only a year to two years old, they were full of energy and themselves! There was a spot were kids could crawl into and then stand, that gives them the impression that they are in the exhibit with their four legged friends. The meerkats come up to the window and run around the kids. They stand at attention, almost as if posing then jump into their make-shift swing. Like I said, too cute!

With tons of things to do, the theatre and great restaurants within walking distance, The Maritime Aquarium is a winner!!!

What to do in Fairfield County with an Almost 3 Year Old!

Yes, it's that time of the year when we start getting visitors for the Holiday's. I love the hustle and bustle, the cooking and the chill in the air. But what do you do when you don't have kids and you have to entertain a little one? Maybe, your grandkids are coming in and you're at a loss. No worries! This week, I'll let you live vicariously through me and enjoy all the hotspots for the little ones.

I headed out to LaGuardia earlier today with my husband to pick up my stepson, his wife and their almost 3 year old. I figured since they would be traveling, I didn't have to plan a formal activity. Lucky for everyone, LaGuardia's bag claim area was a perfect spot to let out some steam before our hour long ride home. A little cat nap in the car didn't hurt and when we got home it was time to play some more.

We have a dog, Cello, who was more than happy to play "catch" with Henry for awhile. Next came Pop Pop with the leaf blower...another fun activity that not only was fun, but was useful!

MaMa and DeeDee (that's me) headed out for some goodies to stock the cabinets and fridge while Henry played with the big boys. When we got home we went for our first "thing to do".

Frank Pepe's Pizza in Fairfield is a great place to go with kids of all ages. They seem to cater to them and to their hungry parents. The only trick to Pepe's is getting there at the right time. By the time we managed to get there, around 6:00, there was already a line out the door. Thankfully the line did move at a reasonable pace. Another plus was having a rock outcropping where Henry was able to practice his rock climbing skills then hit the big wood pile.

Once seated, the waitress was right there and our food came fairly quickly. A nice thin crispy crust was just what we all needed. The original Pepe's is in New Haven if you get up that way.

Tomorrow I'm thinking of driving down to Stamford for the UBS Parade Spectacular. I've never been there, but if it's a nice day, it should be fun. I'll let you know tomorrow!

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Back to School Contacts and Info!

Back to School used to mean purchasing new shoes, a notebook and a few pens and pencils. That list has now expanded to include a usb drive to save and transport your files, batteries for your wireless mouse and keyboard and maybe even a new Ipad, Ipod or Iphone to always be in touch. Whatever may be on your list, here is a list of important numbers and reminders. It's a bit long, but I'm sure it will be helpful!! Happy back to school!

Registration has begun for all Fall activities, click on the links below:

YMCA Registration has begun for all Fall activities

Wakeman Boys and Girls club registration for field hockey and Lacrosse has also started

Here is the important contact information for Fairfield Schools:

Fairfield public schools:

www.edline.net

Elementary Schools Burr Elementary SchoolHolland Hill Elementary School 1960 Burr Street 105 Meadowcroft Road Fairfield, Conn. 06824 Fairfield, CT 06824 Tel 203-255-7385 Fax 203-255-8244 203 255-8314 Absentee Call-in 203-255-7387 Frank Arnone, Principal Gary A. Kass, Principal Dwight Elementary School Jennings Elementary School 1600 Redding Road, Fairfield, CT 06824 31 Palm Drive Main Office: (203) 255-8312 Fairfield, CT 06825 Absentee Reporting Line: (203) 255-8411 Office (203) 255-8316 Fax (203) 255-8203 Fax: (203) 255-8201 Absentee Number: (203) 255-8413 Ms. Brenda Anziano, Principal School Cancellations: (203) 255-8255 Mr. Tony Vuolo, Principal McKinley Elementary School Mill Hill Elementary School 60 Thompson Street 635 Mill Hill Terrace Fairfield, CT 06825 Southport, Connecticut 06890 203.255.8318 Fax 203.255.8204 203-255-8320 - Phone 203-255-8205 - FAX Absentee Call-In: 203.255.8414 203-255-8415 - Absentee Call-In Dr.Ginger Vail, Principal Mr. Kevin Chase - Principal North Stratfield Elementary School Osborn Hill Elementary School 190 Putting Green Road 760 Stillson Road Fairfield, CT 06825-1199 Fairfield, CT 06824 Phone: 255-8322 Fax: 255-8206 Main Office: 203.255.8340 Absentee Line: 255-8416 Absentee Line: 203.255.8417 Deborah K. Jackson, Principal Alan Lipman, Principal Riverfield Elementary School Roger Sherman Elementary School 1625 Mill Plain Road, Fairfield, CT 06824 250 Fern Street, Fairfield, CT 06824 telephone: (203) 255-8328 fax: (203) 255-8207 Main Line: (203) 255-8330 absentee line: (203) 255-8419 Absentee Line: (203) 255-8420 Principal: Mr. Paul M. Toaso Principal: Eileen O. Roxbee Stratfield Elementary School 1407 Melville Avenue, Fairfield, CT 06825 Main Office: (203) 255-8332 Fax: 255-8209 Absentee Reporting Line: 255-8421 Public Middle Schools Fairfield Woods Middle School Roger Ludlowe Middle School 1115 Fairfield Woods Road Fairfield, CT 06825 689 Unquowa Rd, Fairfield CT 06824 (203)255-8334 FAX: (203)255-8210 (203)255 8345 Student Absentee Call In #: 255-8490 student absentee call-in: 203 255 8403 Mr. Greg Hatzis, Principal Principal: Glenn Mackno Mr. Chris Geissler, Assistant Principal Assistant Principals: Karen Eaker and Ian Banner Tomlinson Middle School 200 Unquowa Road Fairfield, CT 06824 (203) 255-8336 FAX (203) 255-8211 Absentee Call-In (203) 255-8495 Mrs. Connee Dawson, Principal Public High Schools Fairfield Ludlowe High School Fairfield Warde High School 785 Unquowa Road 755 Melville Avenue Fairfield, CT 06824 Fairfield, CT 06825 phone (203) 255-7201 Main Office: 203-255-8354 fax (203) 255-7213 Fax: 203-255-8212 Private Schools Fairfield College Preparatory School 1073 North Benson Road Fairfield CT, 06824 Phone 203 254 4200 Fax 203 254 4108 Dr. Robert A. Perrotta, Principal Fairfield Country Day School 2970 Bronson Rd Fairfield, CT 06824 (203) 259-2723 Holy Family School 140 Edison Avenue Fairfield, CT 06825 (203) 367-5409 Notre Dame High School 220 Jefferson Street Fairfield, Ct. main office 203-372-6521 St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic School 1719 Post Road Fairfield, CT 06824 Phone: (203) 255-0556 Fax: (203) 255-0596 Principal Miss Patricia E. Brady The Unquowa School 981 Stratfield Road Fairfield, CT 06825 www.unquowa.org

Frank Bruni Comes to Westport!

The Westport Library was the place to be last night! That is, if you like Frank Bruni former New York Times food critic. Frank was the guest author and was there to speak about his memoir, "Born Round: A Story of Family, Food and a Ferocious Appetite". Frank started his discussion to a standing room crowd by explaining what he liked doing at these events. He would read two passages and then open up the floor to questions. He encouraged us not to be shy and to ask anything we wanted! Wow, now that's a dream come true...ask anything you like...hmmmm.

I was curious to know if after so obviously conquering his food issues (he looks fabulous), did he still have food demons and did he have to fight them everyday. Frank was quite candid and basically said that once he was honest with himself and knew how much he had to eat to be happy, he was able to keep a check on things. Incorporating exercise into his daily routine to offset his calorie count and controlling the size of his portions were key.

Someone asked what his favorite assignment was and he said he

didn't have one, but did have a least favorite...being a campaign correspondent. He said it was a tough assignment, very regimented and was quick to say that the candidates did lead a tough life during the trail. Another question was what were the consequences to a restaurant and/or to him if he gave a scathing review. The answer was interesting. If the restaurant is well established and is more about "the scene" then not much. He used Cipriani as an example saying that they were more about being a "club house" so his review was not detrimental. His main responsibility was to his reader and he felt that people were going out and spending good money to enjoy a meal and they deserved his honest critique. He said that his consequences were minimal and shared a story that one unhappy restaurateur took out a full page ad, opposite his review, pretty much saying that Frank didn't know what he was talking about. Frank was good humored about it and said that they were entitled to their opinion too.

He spoke lovingly of his grandmother and mother and the two passages he read (very entertaining) from his book were of these two influential women. Someone asked if Frank had visited his grandmother's hometown in Puglia and he said that he did and was treated royally. So much so, that he doesn't like to let them know when he's in town so as not to put them out.

Frank's dad was also in attendance and after spending an evening listening to his sons delightful stories and heartfelt answers, I'm sure he was extremely proud of him. When the Q & A was done, Frank was at hand to autograph his books. I told Frank that I would be blogging about the event so my inscription said "Keep on blogging and eat right!" I will make sure to remember those words of wisdom every day!

You can catch more, Authors @ The Library, by clicking on the link. If you're a Twilight Zone fan, Rod Serling will be the guest author tomorrow night, Wednesday, August, 4th.

Day Tripping it to Kent, CT

Kent has long been known as being an artist community and a recent trip has really reinforced that for me. It takes about 45 minutes to get there from Fairfield and depending on which way you go, you can really enjoy a fun drive.

There is quite a bit to do and see starting at the Monument. After a drive up you might be ready for a cup of coffee and a little snack. One of the popular coffee houses is Kent Coffee and Chocolate. They have something similar to a Frapuccino, homemade chocolates and cookies. Outdoor tables make it a nice spot to people watch and the relaxed atmosphere is inviting. This time though I decided to try Belgique...wow, am I glad that I did. The coffee is fantastic and the pastries and chocolates are not only delicious, but works of art. The displays are stunning and everything from the cakes to the chocolates are made on the premises.

Stroll over to The Village Barns and enjoy the architecture and the sculptures in this shopping area. It is home to The Morrison Gallery owned by Billy Morrison and currently featuring works by Peter Woytuk and Robert Lenz. It is an amazing open space with clean lines perfect for showcasing the art. It is definitely a destination spot for collectors from all over. Across the way you will find Black Sheep Yarns owned by Nancy. Nancy had a lovely selection of yarn and a large wooden table that I can only imagine is a great spot to gather with fellow knitters.

When you're done knitting go next door to Essentials Day Spa to be pampered. Christine the owner/esthetician was at hand to tempt me with the many services she offers. Massages, Honey Facials, Shea Butter Cocoon...I could have spent the afternoon there gladly! How about a fresh squeezed juice? New Leaf Natural Foods is across the way. There are a few clothing stores for adults and kids as well. Hungry for lunch...how about a pannini at the Pannini Cafe? Everything is made at the cafe except the bread. Smiling faces behind the counter & yummy sandwiches made this lunch spot special.

Head up the main drag and stop into Heron American Craft Gallery. You can find jewelry, glass, ceramics and so much more. Across the street you can't miss Foreign Cargo Gallery. They feature items that the owners have come across in their foreign travels. They have eclectic displays and it is worth a trip! Further north on N Main St. is one of my favorite shops in Kent, Terston. They feature home accessories and the latest styles in women's clothing. I always find several things I'd like to go home with! Kent Green is another shopping area that is home to the Farmer's Market on Saturday.

While you're walking around make sure to enjoy all the artwork and sculptures that line the streets. If you're hungry from shopping and gallery hopping you still have several other choices. You can hit J.P. Gifford Market and Catering Co. owned by James and Mike. It's another informal eatery that opened about 3 months ago. Huge chalk boards are chock full of tantalizing sandwich combinations and glass cases display interesting salads and sides. Again, everything here is homemade including the bread!

So what if you're tired and are looking for a place to hang your hat for the night? Fife 'n Drum which has an old world feel has been around since the early 70's. You can stay at the Inn, shop at the gift shop or grab dinner at the restaurant. The restaurant features piano music nightly and work by local artists adorn the walls. They also have a pub for a casual dining experience.

If you like the great outdoors, check out Kent Falls State Park. With over 290 acres you can hike, camp, fish and enjoy picnicking. You can also enjoy 1 of the 5 Housatonic Heritage Bike Tours. You can pick up a color map at several of the stores in town.

Have a great time!!!

4th of July at Penfield

What a great night at Penfield Beach! There were people everywhere, having a great time and enjoying the perfect night. If you go next year, make sure to get there early or leave your car in town and walk! Check out the video by clicking the link below...enjoy!

4th of July at Penfield

Tired of Your Curls? Keratin is the Way to Go at Effi's in Westport!!

It's that time of the year when my beautiful curls turn into Medusa's dreaded locks. Yes, it's the heat and the humidity that do me in each and every time. This year I thought I'd try something new. For all you girls with curly hair, does that sound familiar? Here comes Keratin to the rescue!

It took me years to become one with my curls and after trying tons of products I came across Ouidad through a friend. Mind you she has stick straight hair and has always had curl envy. I used it for several years, but when I was in my garden in the summer my hair would still be frizzy and I'd look a little frightening!

Then came along Effi's Salon. I was at the Salon and overhead a few of the stylist's talking about Keratin. They said how much they liked it and how it really worked to control frizz...my ears perked up. They also liked the fact that it doesn't damage your hair and you have flexibility. I decided to ask about this Keratin treatment and Laurean, aka Hollywood came over to give me my education.

Laurean was amazing! She is the Keratin Queen at Effi's and does she know her stuff!! She first looked at my hair and asked me several questions, including how straight I would ultimately want my hair. She did suggest that I keep some wave in my hair so that I'd have a choice on either wearing it straight, straight or having some body. I was impressed with her knowledge of the product, process and her patience with ALL my questions. What is it exactly, how long does it last, how long does it take, will it hurt my hair, how much does it cost....

It turns out that it takes anywhere from 2 1/2 hours up depending on the length of your hair. You might be wondering why it takes so long. First, the product is brushed onto your hair in the same fashion as when you have highlights. Hollywood, takes only a few strands at a time that's how she's able to achieve such great results. After that, you sit for about 1/2 hour. She then takes your hair with the product in it and blow dries it straight with the same process of doing a few strands at a time. Then you're off for the day.

Depending on how straight you'd like your hair, you will be back in either two or three days to finish the process. I opted for two days since I still wanted some body. For two days you can't touch, wash, put your hair behind your ears, in a ponytail etc. All this insures that you will have the optimum results. After two days I was ready! Hollywood washed the product out of my hair and then worked her magic with her hair dryer. I could not believe it! Not only was my hair shiny, but it was silky! She gave me shampoo and conditioner for home care and told me that over the course of a week it would settle into the real finished product.

It's been a month since I had my Keratin treatment and it looks fabulous. The pic of me with my dog Cello was taken a month after. I wet my hair everyday and wash it every 3 days.

I literally do nothing except take a blow dryer and swirl it

around my wet hair. It takes a few minutes as opposed to the 20+ minutes it used to take when I felt like having straight her. The best part is that if it rains or it's humid...it still looks great! I have also just let it dry naturally and it looks just as good. The treatment is supposed to last 3-6 months, again depending on how often you wash it and other variables. The cost starts at about $300.00

One of my friends joked around with me when I told her I was having it done in CT. She asked, "You're not going into the City to have it done?". I'm here to tell you that after my consultation with Laurean I knew I was in excellent hands and have the results to prove it! Thank you Effi's and Hollywood!!!

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An Evening of Laughs at Bedford Middle School!

They say that laughter is the best medicine and if you were at Bedford Middle School this evening you would be cured! Roz Chast, a cartoonist, best known for her cartoons in "The New Yorker" had the 500 attendees in the auditorium rolling in their seats!

Roz presented a slide show of about 50 of her cartoons. She started with one titled "A Note on The Author". Roz had been asked to submit a photo of herself as a youngster for a publication and she asked if she could submit a drawing instead. They said yes and she ran with it. The result was a cartoon of herself laying in bed reading books on illness' and diseases, you had to be there! She read some of the cartoons and commented on what inspired her. Some, needed no comment from Roz.

There was a Q&A following the slide show where people asked a variety of questions which brought one of the funniest lines of the evening. The question went something like, "I've been following your career in cartoons and you seemed somewhat ambivalent to moving to the suburbs how do you feel now"? Roz was quick to say that she would be happy to never drive again and said that on her way to Bedford School she was stuck on Long Lost Lane. The room erupted in laughter since it's really Long Lots. The consensus after the talk was that Roz's next cartoon will be about Long Lost Lane!

After the Q&A, Roz was on hand to sign books. I was happy to have my hubbies gift signed by the author...too bad I didn't ask for a little cartoon instead! Maybe next time.

If you didn't get the opportunity to hear Roz tonight, you can check out her exhibition, Divine Comedy, at the Westport Arts Center running from April 1st to May 30, 2010.

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Roz Chast Comes to Westport, CT

One of the things that I love most about living in Fairfield County, CT is it's proximity to the City and all the cultural events we have because of it. I have to admit that as a born and raised New Yorker I was a little worried about leaving the big city behind.I needn't have worried! I have space, a garden, a full sized dog and all the great events I can ask for!

The Westport Library does an amazing job of bringing writers to the community. Coming Monday, April 12 The Malloy Lecture in the Arts has invited Roz Chast to be their guest. She will be interviewed at Bedford Middle School on North Avenue at 7:30pm. After the interview there is usually time for a Q&A and then a book signing. The last one I attended held at Bedford Middle School was with Joyce Carol Oats. They get an incredible turn out so you might want to register beforehand to insure a seat.

Roz Chast is probably best known for her cartoons in The New Yorker. My husband got me her book "Theories of Everything", pictured, for Christmas a couple of years ago. I was excited to see that she would be in Westport so that I could meet her and have my book signed. Roz had an exhibit a couple of years ago at Silvermine Guild Arts Center in New Canaan another great CT resource. Silvermine has been in operation for 84 years and has attracted many well known artists to teach and exhibit.I hope to see you on the 12th! Enjoy!

Cancer Care Benefit at Lillian August in Norwalk, CT

The 8th Annual, Girls Night Out benefit is just around the corner! Take part in Cancer Care of Connecticut's benefit this Wednesday, March 3. Doors open at 6:00pm for VIP tickets and 7:00pm for Premiere tickets. This years theme is Denim and Diamonds...what girl can resist? This is a fun event and is one of their most popular benefits!

The event will be held at Lillian August at 32 Knight Street in Norwalk, CT. Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres will be served throughout the evening. The benefit will feature a luxury auction, a denim and diamond bar and a designer consignment boutique.

Enrique Alarcon and Amanda Parton of Dance Collective in Westport will be performing and then giving a mini Latin Rhythms lesson. They were such a hit at last years event that they were invited to come back and share their enthusiasm and love of dance. If you didn't get to dance last year, here's your chance!

Don't miss it, it's fun, but most of all, it's for a great cause!! Enjoy!

$75 VIP 6:00 p.m.

$50 Premiere 7:00 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased by calling 203.663.2192

or online at www.cancercare.org/girlsnightout

Don't Let the Weather Fool You...The Spring Market is Here!

O.K. everyone, Super Bowl Sunday and Fat Tuesday have come and gone, Spring Training has begun and with that, the Fairfield County, CT Real Estate Market is off to the races!

I know what you're thinking, but it's still snowing and it's raining and it's cold and the flowers aren't in bloom. So what, the time is now! Winter landscapes can be just as beautiful!

If you're thinking of putting your house on the market, don't wait any longer. If you're waiting for the pansies to survive and your bulbs to start poking through, you will miss the market. The traditional Spring Market in Fairfield County starts right after the Super Bowl. The thinking is that people will look now and start making their minds up by March/April so that they can be in their new homes by the end of June or beginning of July.

Another motivating factor for an early decision this year is the Home Buyer's Tax Credit. In order for buyers to take advantage of it, they need to be under contract by April 30th. The credit for first time home buyers is $8,000 and if they have been in their home for a minimum of 5 years, they are eligible for a $6,500 credit.

So don't be late, capture the peak of the market now!

Day Tripping it to Washington Depot, CT

My husband is always asking me where I want to go for a ride. This is somewhat of a challenge because of the criteria...no more than 45 mins to an hour from home and windy roads for a fun driving experience. This got me thinking that there probably are a whole slew of people wondering where to go for a day trip when you live in Southern Fairfield County. I thought it would be fun to go explore, write a little blurb and put together a little video clip of our travels.

Our first stop in the series is Washington Depot, CT. Washington is best known for the Mayflower Inn. We stayed at the Mayflower a couple of years ago and had a great experience. Staying at the Inn and being pampered in the Spa was heavenly, but we quickly realized it was a quintessential New England town. Beautiful scenery, parks and traditional architecture won us over.

When you go to Washington Depot, forget your cell phone at home. Washington Depot has no cell towers and they aim to keep it that way. It’s not that the cell service is poor, it’s that there is none. If hiking and being in the throws of a massage don’t take your mind off of things the lack of your cell will force you to. I really didn’t mind that much, but did have to ask a local merchant to use their land line to set up an appointment for a client.

We had coffee at Marty’s, THE place to go for your Java fix. It is a bustling place with comfy couches, counters at the windows, and overstuffed chairs. Marty’s serves brunch, salads, sandwiches and light plates all prepared in the back kitchen. There’s also a large communal table. Marty’s has wireless internet and is a Gallery as well. You can enjoy the artwork while munching on a scone and then surf the web.

Across the way and owned by the same owners is Green Hill which is a lifestyle store and Washington Sports. The stores have an eclectic selection of items and look as if they would be found in SoHo.

If you’re looking for some reading material head directly to The Hickory Stick Bookshop. This is a great bookstore. It’s has an open feel, a large selection of books and is the small town bookshop you remember before the big name bookstores hit. Pick up a book and sit in one of the many cushy chairs.

Are you a knitter? No worries, The Village Sheep is a great place to touch and feel all those great yarns you might only see in the magazines or on line. Nate, a black lab mix rescue dog is the official greeter and will probably give you a tour if you have a treat for him. The owner Maggie, purchased the Village Sheep in 2008 and brought it to its current location in downtown Washington Depot. She is helpful and has a great selection of yarns and tools to choose from. Comfy chairs and sofas, cookies and a fireplace make this an inviting spot to, yet again, sit and relax.

Feeling hungry for lunch yet? The Pantry owned by Michael and Nancy Ackerman since 1986 is a good choice. In existence since 1977, it’s where day trippers and regulars alike go for gourmet chow. They are opened from 10-6, Tuesday through Saturday. They bake their own bread and what makes this eatery different is the housewares store that encircles the dining tables. Everything from exotic olive oils, to sea salts to beautiful french pottery. There are lots of baked goodies to choose from and a take out section of appetizing prepared foods. They also run a catering division.

You can work off all your calories by taking a walk or hiking on the many trails offered at Steep Rock Nature Preserve. Steep Rock is one of the oldest land trusts in CT. They have over 4,774 acres to explore. Everything from beginner to advanced trails, fishing and different programs are offered. Dogs are welcomed.

If hiking isn’t your thing then continue to explore the downtown. There are several galleries to sneak into and view the local art. Enjoy!