[Jen's List] Thur., July 10

[Jennifer Levinson]

I wanted to send out an email to all of Jens List to thank everyone for their support. 1st off, Jens List now has over 4200 members. I know I have said this before, but seriously, I can NOT believe what its turned into. Crazy, really, but good. I remember the days, which was not too long ago, when I was so happy to email everyone to say that there were 100 list members! I think that perhaps, my escape to the computer is what has saved my sanity since Matthew and Joey were born. 

They are still having major tummy issues. We have been down the switching of formulas road, 2 different medications, different sleeping positions, gas ease drops, gripe water, soothing musical cd's, car rides(even at the high price of gas!) and MANY sleepless nights where they end up sleeping on mine and mikes chest for hours! It will get better...one day...at least that is what I keep telling myself! The 3 big boys are troopers and are doing great. 

I have rec'd so many email from members, some from those that I don't know, have never met and may never will in person - offering to help, wishing congratulations and sweet words or just those that say thanks for the info I share. No email is unread and each and everyone is appreciated. So, thank you to all! 


Throwing less-is-more birthday parties
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2008/07/06/LVN7117IPO.DTL&hw=katherine+seligman&sn=001&sc=1000


Storytime at Barnes and Noble 
Tomorrow, Friday, July 11th is from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  
A mommy and me teacher, Stephanie, from Temple Judea, will be reading stories. She's going to be doing this for the next few Friday mornings-- July 11, 18, 25 and August 1 all at 10:00 a.m. in the morning. It should be great for all kids under 6 years old. Should be fun, and airconditioned! Ventura and Havenhurst in Encino


SIERRA CANYON SUMMER CAMP has openings for 2nd session!
July 28 – August 22nd
If child does not have plans the rest of the summer, Sierra Canyon Day Camp has space! My son goes there and LOVES it. In fact, just the other day, he asked to go everyday(he is there M-W-F)!  Please call the camp office M-F 8:00am – 5:00 p.m. at 818-882-8121 for more info.
http://www.sierracanyondaycamp.com/default.asp


Focus Group
A friend of mine invented a belt to use during pregnancy which allows you to wear your regular clothes longer..she is looking for a few pregnant ladies who can "test out" her prototype for FREE and give their honest feedback and opinion to help her improve on her item and promote it. You can check it out in a few days on her website www.bucklenbloom. com (site is not yet up). If you are interested, please email sbrooks7 at socal.rr.com



Members NEED leads - Can you help?
Looking for other families with a child going to kindergarten at Lockhurst in September - Email ronnaleavitt at mac.com
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Looking for anyone that has had a party at Stir Crazy Kidz and your feedback - Email jlev at socal.rr.com
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Looking for a long term housekeeper (possible nanny work for 1 child) for 1 day a week.  In Tarzana, must drive, be flexible & be reliable, loving and organized. Some English is necessary but Spanish is ok. Will pay $10 an hour. Email chrisdenise1 at prodigy.net if you know anyone.
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Looking to rent a house in the SF Valley, Calabasas or Agoura area. Email RebeccaTobias at gmail.com
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Looking for anyone with experience at Dance Dimensions and the new-ish karate place in the WestfieldPromenade Mall on Topanga. Email jujam4 at sbcglobal.net
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Looking for kids starting Kindergarten at Serrania Avenue Elementary this Fall. Email rtolkan at earthlink.net. 
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Looking for a housekeeper who drives and can cook simple meals for my 16 year old son, can go to the market and take him to sports activities, etc. This position is part-time weekdays from 3:00-6:30 p.m. and pays $12 plus the cost of gas for the errands. In Van Nuys/Sherman Oaks area (near Van Nuys Blvd and Burbank).  Call Caryn at 818.988.6606
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Looking for daycare -- live in Encino but will travel for the right place!! Email:  laurie.bailey at gmail.com
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Looking for a good, reliable and honest cleaning crew (that does not cost a fortune) in Sherman Oaks.  Email kerrygidney at yahoo.com AND RachelSpalding at aol.com 


Food Allergy Support Group!
Parents of Kids with Food Allergies Support Group will be facilitated by Nicole Meadow, MPN, RD and Nina Mercer MS, LMFT, both mothers of children with multiple food allergies.  In this group you will connect with parents of other children with food allergies; find out how to keep your child safe at school; learn strategies for dealing with family and friends; discuss the emotional impact of having a child with food allergies; get important nutritional information; share family-friendly allergy-safe recipes and much more!  Parent group meets monthly and regular allergy friendly play dates for the whole family TBA.  
Monday, August 25th from 6:00-7:30pm
16055 Ventura Blvd, Suite 1203 in Encino
Cost: FREE
Please call to reserve your space-
Nicole: (818) 304-1876 or
Nina: (818) 754-4785
Nicole Meadow is a Registered Dietitian who specializes in pediatrics, adolescents and pre-post/natal nutrition.  Nicole has extensive experience working with children with food allergies, both in a clinical setting and also in her own experience as a mother of a child with multiple food allergies.  Her clinical practice, NutritionWise (www.nicolemeadow.com), focuses on children and families with many different nutrition related issues including overweight, celiac disease, eating disorders, dyslipidemia, failure to thrive, sports nutrition, diabetes, vegetarianism and others. 
and
Nina Mercer is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  Nina has over 10 years of experience working with children, teens, and families.  Nina’s knowledge of the unique issues facing parents of children with food allergies stems from her own experience as the mother of a child with food allergies.  Her other therapeutic work is focused on those with special needs, including Aspergers/autism; trauma and abuse; and the impact of early attachment relationships in adulthood. 
 

Nanny/Housekeeper Leads
My nanny Claudia is currently available on weekends for housekeeping work.  She is very honest and trustworthy.  Please call Claudia directly at 818-481-0661. Thanks, jlperlmutter at yahoo.com
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Daisy Lopez is also available for housekeeping work Monday through Friday.  Please call Daisy at 818-297-8685
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Great F/T Nannny available that is looking for work in the Valley. She is seeking at least $15/hr and 40hrs/week. We hired Helen as our temporary nanny while we waited for a daycare opening. I\'m very sad to see her go as she has been WONDERFUL with our 4 month old daughter. She helps around the house too when the baby is napping. Helen is GREAT and you would be lucky to have her work for you. You can contact Helen directly at (818)321-0932 or by email mgalper001 at socal.rr.com. You can email Kristi at kristih73 at yahoo.com for a reference. 
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I am currently sharing my nanny, Connie, with another family. They have her full time, and I drop off my 11 month old son with them 15-20 hrs/wk. Connie is happy, energetic and loves to be outside with the kids. She is very responsible, very reliable and 100% trustworthy. My son smiles/squeals and scrambles to her when I drop him off (forget about separation anxiety!). She speaks perfect English and Spanish. She is a legal citizen of the US, has her own car and a valid driver's license. She lives in Torrance, so she is willing to go anywhere from the south bay area up to Santa Monica. Her fee is competitive and flexes with more than one child. Over the years, Connie has been passed along through 5 families within the office where I used to work - Heal the Bay. She very quickly went into caring for two children simultaneously. I have been overjoyed with the social advantages of this arrangement! She used to work at a daycare center and then moved into working for all of us at Heal the Bay. We all love her and would do anything for her. Unfortunately, noone at Heal the Bay has had a baby in the last year. I am not sure of all the details you would like to know, but I am happy to answer any and all questions you might have. Connie has cared for my son for the last 10 months - since he was 6 weeks old - when I was still thinking I was going to go back to work! The family we currently share with has decided that their son is old enough to go into daycare. I cannot afford to pay her full time, so if I don't find another family with whom to share Connie, I want to help her find another family to work with.  We just learned that she will be available much sooner than we anticipated - beginning 21 July! What else can I say? Ideal for me: I find a family in Venice or Santa Monica with whom to share. If not, please consider Connie. She is amazing, and you will not be disappointed. Just to reiterate: she has PLENTY of references. If you have questions, please let me know by email or please call me: 310-487-2728 or Connie: 424-215-8446
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My amazing nanny's cousin has been working as a nanny for 15 years with a family whose needs have changed now that their kids are grown.  She loves kids, speaks English, drives and has great references.  She is looking for a job as a full-time nanny in the Encino/Sherman Oaks/Studio City area.  If you are interested in talking to her please call Victoria at 818-675-4196. Thanks, lbeaubaire at gmail.com
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Amazing cleaning lady available.  Her name is Luvia, she speaks OK english is very honest, caring, and very reliable.  She is also legal drives and cleans a mean house!!!  She has been working for us five days a week for the past year and our needs have changed.  I am soooo sad to lose her...she really is a great cleaner and is always on time.  She has a great heart and I can always trust her.  Even if you need some one once or twice a week.  She is the bomb and you will not be sorry!!!  email or call if you\'re interested.  laceyakahane at yahoo.com and 310-560-5635
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Brigette Jackson <brigette.makeup at sbcglobal.net> son's pre school teacher recently retired from her position and after only a few short weeks is at a loose end! She is a mother, grandmother and
just a wonderful, warm and energetic person who has devoted her life to children. Anyway, she's looking for some babysitting work babysitting for infants and young children. $15 - $20 an hour; days, evenings, weekends - Pasadena area. Call Karen Franchot at 213-422-9522
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Lupe Becerros is a wonderful, warm, hard working women who has been amazing with my three kids and our home!  She has worked for us for the past 5 years.  She is looking for housekeeping/child care work part time in the Northridge, Granada Hills, Studio City or Sherman Oaks area.  Very reliable and extremely trustworthy! She takes the bus and always works hard.  Her number is 818 469-1084 or you can contact me for more information paula at milkinmommmas.com


Company Kids
They are having a HUGE sale and have some really awesome things for super cheap! Think gifts...the stuff is so cute and can be personalized too! http://www.thecompanystore.com/dept/Kids+Clearance/1690/1/viewall/


Pilates Day-A fundraiser for non-profit Hands Across Communicaitons
July 19th from 9am-1pm, classes on the hour
Pivotal Motion Pilates
5655 Lindero Canyon Rd in Westlake Village 
Suggested Donation: $25
Call to reserve! (818) 889-8008  Class size limited.
To reserve online, please click http://www.pivotalmotion.com/the-studio/online-payment/ to make your tax deductible donation.  
Each hour will be:40 min Mat Class, 20 min Zumba or Yoga Class
Sampling of Services - Free with admission:
Loaded Gift Bags
Raffle Ticket
Raffle Prizes
Services with admission:
(subject to change and based on availability)
Chi Massage
Infrared Light Bed
Energy and Body Work
Nutritional Coaching
Raffle Prizes Include:
Private Pilates Lesson Package with Pivotal Motion Pilates
Spa Services at Sacred Soul Spa
Private Ballroom Dance Lessons with Dance Ten
Energy Work with Tamara Walker
Massage with Robyn Schwartz
Restaurant and Store Gift Certificates and more!


Photography Leads
Mitch glick specializes in the documentary portrait. This is not your old school family photo shoot where everyone piles into the station wagon in funeral attire for for an awkward couple of hours in front of Sears' most imaginative color scheme. His approach is photo-journalistic: spend a few relaxed hours with a couple, a family, pets, whatever and simply capture who they are. The result is a series of photographs that are candid, silly and loving. The process is fun for everyone. Photos are compiled and delivered on disk and as an option, can be uploaded to a personalized site. He also do headshots, kids birthday parties, most any daytime outdoor events and small/intimate weddings.See samples of his work at www.flickr.com/photos/mitchglick/sets. Email mitchglick at gmail.com for more info
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Free sitting in July and August. Darby Nicole Photography = capturing moments when you least expect them. There is no need for globs of make-up, staging, or false smiles. Moments in life are naturally beautiful and our photographs enhance that very quality. Whatever the occasion Darby Nicole Photography will preserve it. Snapshots are all snippits in life that look marvelous and are effortless. Darby Nicole Photography has been in business since 1996 and is one of Los Angeles’ Top Leading Outdoor Photographers. Will travel all throughout Los Angeles county to an environment that suits your style. To your home or you can choose from a number of different locations that we offer.  Up to 15 people can be apart of a photo sitting.  The photo sitting takes about one hour depending on how many people are involved in the session.   After that you receive your proofs over email and can choose your photographs via email or at our office. www.darbynicole.com
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www.rachelhudgins.com
Jens List member's who have used Rachel:
fernanda at laferwear.com
jacquelynkbrown at aol.com
adriennecarolan at gmail.com
Melanieapp at aol.com
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Livingstone Photography - www.julialivingstone.com
On location, natural light photographer specializing in children's portraits. Mention Jen's List for a 15% discount off of regularly priced session fees and packages. Email LivingstonePhotography at gmail.com for more info!
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Fairy Bread is the family and kids photography studio headed by Santa Monica mom Lisa Rutledge. Every Saturday in August will be a Summer Special Fairy Bread Photo Day. This means a discounted mini photo shoot of up to three people  for $95 with your 15 retouched images then posted on a private viewing gallery. To have a look at one go to www.fairy-bread.com/halsted. (This family bought an upgrade...but it still gives you an idea of the work). To see more, visit www.fairy-bread.com and e mail lisa at lisa @fairy-bread.com to reserve your time slot. 


DVD'S for 2-5 year old boys 
Big and Loud Video LLC's founders, William Mock and Darin Cooper, are parents of young boys. Their boys' interest in any and all manner of large machinery serves as the inspiration for everything they do. http://www.bigandloudvideo.com/index.html


2 nine year old sister kitty's need your help ASAP
They lived in the same home (strictly indoor) since they were kittens. The grandmother of the family who owned them had to come stay with them due to medical issues.  The woman brought the cats into the pound in tears at having to give them up as the doctor told the family they could not have cats due to the grandmother's respiratory problems. They were raised around kids and get along great with them. The gray one's name is Sweety, but they didn't have a name on file for the black and white one. Due to the fact they were owner surrenders they can be put down at any time. Jane(Jane at janegarrison.com) is so desperate to find a home for these sweet cats, that if you can adopt them, she will for pay any fees associated. Impound numbers are A0962694 and A0962699. Please pass this along to anyone you may think is interested. Email her if you are interested or for more info.



$240 Gift certficate to the Olympic Spa - Asking $140
It is located in Los Angeles obviously on Olympic. The gift certificate is for "The Goddess Treatment" which includes an hour and 45min facial , an hour and 20 min massage , as well as a scalp treatment and a body scrub .The package is valued at $240. Will sell gift certificate for 1/2 the cost - $140. Here is the link for the spa for complete description.  www.olympicspala.com
Email emailaaran at yahoo.com if you are interested


More Stuff to do This Weekend!
GET A LIFE CHILDCARE FOUNDATION'S 1st ANNUAL"JAZZ TO SUPPORT LIFE" FUNDRAISER
Get a Life Childcare Foundation, the only non-profit foundation in the nation dedicated to caring for children whose parents or siblings are living with chronic or terminal illness, will be holding their first annual "Jazz to Support Life" event benefiting the foundation's second child care facility in West Los Angeles. The evening will feature Wynton Marsalis' Jazz Piano prodigy, Eric Reed and a silent auction. This exclusive event is to be held at:
The Jazz Bakery
3233 Helms Avenue
Culver City, California 90034
Saturday, July 12, 2008
5:30 p.m.-Cocktails and Hor d'oeuvres
6:30 -Silent Auction
**8:00 p.m.- Performance by Jazz Pianist Eric Reed**
Admission is $30, and seating is limited.
Event sponsors include clothing designer Christian Audigier, Sculpture to Wear,�RTKL Associates Inc., and Ron Edwards of Air Dreams Designs. The proceeds will be used to furnish "The Get a Life Family Support Center" once construction is completed in late 2008. The new location is intended to support local hospitals, accommodate more children and offer them a wide array of activities and play options such as a computer lab, an art room, and a music center. For Saturday, July 12th's Eric Reed's 8:00 performance and fundraiser call The Jazz Bakery ticket office at: 310-271-9039 or online at:Brown Paper Bag Tickets. Information for event is NOT on the ticket agents website. For more fundraiser information and for your FREE goody bags RSVP at info at getalifechildcare.org. 
www.getalifechildcare.org
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SPIRIT ACTIVEWEAR WAREHOUSE SALE
Such cute items - great quality stuff. Sold at high end stores and resorts .
Men’s, Women’s, and Children’s Clothing
Saturday July, 12th from 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
648 Mateo Street
(Between 6th & 7th and Sante Fe and Alameda)
Los Angeles, Ca. 90021
ALL ITEMS only $ 5.00 each
100% Cotton Sweats, Tees, Tanks, Hoodies, Shorts, Pants, and more
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MULTI-FAMILY GARAGE SALE
This Saturday, 7/12, from 7 am to 1 pm. 454 and 478 Fallbrook Avenue in Newbury Park (Twin Oaks subdivision). Baby items, kid’s toys, clothes, electronics and much more. Something for everyone! Email levanduski00 at msn.com with any questions.
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FREE showing of Ricki Lake’s THE BUSINESS OF BEING BORN
This Sat., July 12th at 7pm
14140 Magnolia Blvd in Sherman Oaks
RSVP Office (818) 386-1082 Fax (818) 386-9374
THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT DOCUMENTARY FOR WOMEN AND BABIES OF OUR TIME. Midwives and Doctors will be present to answer your questions following the film. The Natural Birth & Women’s Center and The Family Birth and Wellness Center is the most advanced Birth Center in California, specializing in Alternative Medicine, Advanced Midwifery, Water Birth options, home birth and hospital birth services, including choices for high risk Women and Women wishing to achieve Vaginal Birth after Cesarean. YOU WILL NEVER LOOK AT GIVING BIRTH THE SAME WAY AGAIN!
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Cloth Diapering Workshop 
Kayla at Angel Bunz holds a workshop a few times a year and teaches you everything you need to know about cloth diapering.  She normally charges $35.00 for a consultation but only charges $10.00 for up to two people when she does the workshop.  The $10.00 is for the workshop, a private fitting, consult with Kayla and the ability to take advantage of special discounts on select items. It is on Sunday July 13th at 11am and the registration is online at:
http://www.angelbunz.com/proddetail.php?prod=workshop
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Russian Celebration
Sunday, July 13TH, 10 am - 5 pm
Tarzana Community and Cultural Center
19130 Ventura Blvd. (corner of Vanalden)
The Tarzana Community Kids Club presents: Russian Celebration! Families are invited to experience the Russian culture. Enjoy live entertainment, featuring traditional Russian folk dancing, Russian musicians, singers and even a children's chorus. In addition, there will be Russian food, a costume gallery, vendors, and games for the kids. $5 admission. For more information, please visit: www.TCKidsClub.BlogSpot.com
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The Paul Green School of Rock Music
Sunday, July 13th - 12-3pm
Young and talented musicians, aged 7-17, perform a variety of classic rock music
Children's Museum of LA
Stop by the guitar-making workshop and rock out with your very own guitar
Rock Star Face Painting with Beauty Collection
6333 W. Third St. Los Angeles . 
For more info call (323) 933-9211 or visit www.farmersmarketla.com
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GRAND RE-OPENING PARTY AT LUCKY YOU
THIS SUNDAY FROM 12-4PM FOR WINE AND APPETIZERS. FEATURING OUR NEW LINE OF JEWLERY AND YES LUCKY YOU NOW CARRIES OMGIRL FOR A DISCOUNTED RATE. EVERYONE WILL RECEIVE A GIFT WITH PURCHASE PLUS $5 OFF $25 PURCHASE AND $15 OFF $50 PURCHASE. 
12441 MAGNOLIA BLVD. VALLEY VILLAGE 
818-985-1115 
 

A Weekend Intensive Introduction to Nonviolent Parenting 
July 26th & 27th from 9:00am - 3:00pm
Have you heard about Nonviolent Parenting but have not been able to attend a class?
Have you attended some classes but now want more?
Do you live outside of the Los Angeles area and have been waiting for your opportunity to take a class?
Are you interested in the Parent Educator Certification Program?
Fee based on a sliding scale: $175 - $250
Training will be held at:
Center for Nonviolent Education and Parenting
1226 N. Alvarado St, at Reservoir St, one block north of Sunset Blvd.
In Echo Park United Methodist Church Building (not affiliated)
REGISTER ONLINE at http://www.cnvep.org/profconf/ 
For more information contact Pamela Almeida at pamela at cnvep.org or 213.484.6676
www.cnvep.org


Shoe-ing Away Convention
This peice was featured on Nightline a few nights ago. I watched it and the whole idea behind the CEO's concept of running a buisness almost brought tears to my eyes...if only every job was like this one. 
http://abcnews.go.com/Business/story?id=5326827&page=1


PAINTER AVAILABLE
If anyone needs a great painter for inside or outside your house or place of work, Fernando is your guy.  He is nice as can be, trustworthy, hard working and does a great job.  Fernando's phone number is:  818-941-0960. Refered by loylawyer at yahoo.com



The Quest for Rest: Should Babies Co-Sleep or Cry It Out?
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/story?id=4263379&page=1


ChicosChicas - Spots Still Available for 8-week Summer Session!
It's never too early to expose your child to another language.  Early exposure during infancy and toddlerhood helps establish and develop pathways in your child's brain to hear and speak a foreign language -- even later in life!  And a fun and easy way for a child and mommy to bond and learn another language is through music.  ChicosChicas is a 45-minutes Spanish music and movement class for children ages 6 months - 3 years that begins next week and is taught with native and non-native Spanish speakers.  Spots are still available for classes on Mondays @ 11am, Wednesdays @ 11am, Wednesdays @ 12pm, and Fridays @ 11am.  You can sign up for once or twice a week at our West LA location.  You don't need to know Spanish to attend or have fun, because the class is taught in English and Spanish and learning is reinforced through rhythm and repetition.  Visit www.chicoschicas.net for more information, and join with a friend to get a 10% discount.  ¡Bienvenidos!



Tastybaby 
RSVP to info at tastybaby.com & get a free eco-tote (usually $5)
July Tastings:
All tasting demos run from 11am - 3pm and are usually located near the baby section or the grocer's freezer. 
Buy One, Get One Free coupons are at every tasting!
Whole Foods 3rd & Fairfax       Wednesday July 16 10-12 PM
Whole Foods Arroyo              Thursday July 17 10-12 PM
Whole Foods Beverly Hills       Friday July 18 10-12 PM
Whole Foods Brentwood           Saturday July 19 10-12 PM
Whole Foods Glendale            Wednesday July 23  10-12 PM
Whole Foods Jamboree            Thursday July 24 11-1 PM
Whole Foods Pacific Coast Hwy   Sunday July 20 11-1 PM
Whole Foods Pasadena            Saturday July 26 12-2 PM
Whole Foods Porter Ranch        Sunday July 27 3-5 PM
Whole Foods Redondo Beach       Wednesday July 30 10-12 PM
Whole Foods Santa Monica        Thursday July 31 10-12 PM
Free shipping on www.Amazon.com 
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=sr_nr_seeall_1?ie=UTF8&rs=&keywords=Tastybaby&rh=i%3Aaps%2Ck%3ATastybaby%2Ci%3Ababy-products


The information contained herein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness.  Neither the information nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation.  You are receiving this email because you previously subscribed to this email program, and if you wish to unsubscribe from the email list, go to www.jenlevinson.com
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