Our Library, Circa 2012

Libraries have been an amazing resource and source of inspiration since their inception. However, I have only recently become aware of the amazing online resources available for kids.

The tumblepad books on the Takoma Park library site are a major upgrade from traditional TV as they narrate animated versions of e-books at a pace much better for language development. Recent research shows fast paced shows such as Spongebob Squarepants reduce reading scores.

The library also has bilingual tumblebooks in Spanish, French and Chinese. The Little Pim online software features very basic language videos in about 10 languages that our girl loves. The many tumblebooks also feature accompanying games that complement well after reading that same book. There are even iPad tailored games to increase the interactiveness.


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Pizza Compass: Where to get a good slice around here

As a born and raised New-yorker, I feel I have the right to judge - and was pleasantly surprised by the pizza spots listed here:

Ledo Pizza has a few restaurants in the area, and the one in College Park is mentioned as one of the areas best (I've been to the one on Georgia Ave NE).

Armands Chicago Style has a kid-friendly make-your-own pizza night and their sauce is top shelf.

Roscoe's Pizza of Takoma Park is brick oven style, has a toy store next door, and a good beer selection.

Moroni and Brothers Pizza is also brick oven, on Georgia Ave. NE, the place and the area are not particularly kid-friendly but the pizza is great.  It could be a good takeout option.

Menomale, on 12 St. NE, Brookland has outdoor seating, though on a fairly busy if not cute street.  The sorbet is served in fruit rinds or a coconut bowl which is fun for all - we brought ours home.

We The Pizza, co-owned by Spike of Top Chef Fame off Penn Ave near the Capitol.  Great NY Style, large space and good non-pizza options.

For some more great pizza joints I haven't checked out yet:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/gog/best-bets/pizza-restaurants,64328.html

I know I'm missing some great spots, so if you have any favorites - let us know!

Possibly the best Pizza I've had in D.C. is that which I've made myself. It's exceedingly simple to make your own dough. Couple fresh ingredients with a pizza stone, and you are well on your way to making some great 'za. To get that perfect slice, set up some bricks or pavers to evenly distribute the heat in your oven. Flip the dough at your own risk!



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10 Trees for 10 Dollars!

Arbor day foundation has some great deals on trees if you can wait a few years for the payoff. We have a weed ridden embankment that is filled with weeds that no one knows what to do with.  I joined the foundation and will receive 10 flowering trees that I will use to turn this space into something special.  The trees are shipped via FedEx for free and look like a stick, but in a few months you will see some pretty leaves and in a few years you will have a legitimate tree.  It's an investment into our future and for 10 dollars why would you not plant as many trees anywhere that has the capacity?

https://www.arborday.org/shopping/Memberships/memberships.cfm?membership=trees&st=m