Freaky Friday #6 Coats 50% off!

Well, the weather outside is getting frightful, so we are pretty sure that Freaky Friday will be a hit!
Log in to psychobabyonline.com to get coats at 50% off starting at 11am CST! See you next week!

Let's Talk Turkey!

Well, here is our Turkey Lurkey full of everyone's thanks! We had a total of 202 feathers, and we cannot wait to distribute the corresponding food to the Association House to help families in need, as well as all the cool toys and clothes everyone brought in for our present drive! You've seen the virtual feathers, but here is a picture of all of the feathers combined - our Turkey is complete. Thank you all for your interest in our Food Drive - we couldn't have done it without you. A special thanks for the feathers donated by Greylan H.'s class at school (Thank you, kids,for your thoughts and creativity! And a special thank you to Grey for his organizational skills and big, big heart!)

Thank you all for your help, from the bottom of our hearts. We leave you with one feather's message, dictated by a three-year old in our brick and mortar to her Mommy. We are thankful for "All the love!"

-posted by Kristina

Introducing Psycho Baby's Cool, Crazy Online Gift Guide!

Psycho Baby's first Cool, Crazy Gift Guide is chock full of ideas for Holiday, full of looks comprised of our cool clothes, trendy shoes, unique toys and books and rockin' accessories for babies and kids! Create a Wish list for Grandma, or just have fun shopping our 'looks!' As a special present to you from 11/27 - 30, 2008 you'll receive 20% your purchase when you shop our Gift Guide and enter Online Code GIFT20.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

It's Bump Day! New Baby Bonkie Sleep Sacks!

Swaddle in style with Baby Bonkie !

Oh, the cosy goodness of Baby Bonkie arrived just in time for Bump Day! Perfect for a hip baby shower gift, these cosy sacks are wonderful for when you first have your newborn and are too tired from your newborn to be able to follow those swaddling instructions! Baby Bonkie come in girly swirls and dots, boy skulls and dots and a pretty neutral for those who don't know what they are having! If you are looking for a cool blanket for a new little babe, be sure to check out these hip covers at psychobabyonline.com!

Yummy Recipes! Spatulatta Presents the Pilgrim Hat!

The Quinoa Vegetarian Pilgrim's Hat!

The Lovely Spatulatta ladies were kind enough to share their Pilgrim's Hat recipe with us. For more on the creators of this yummy treat, check out our cool interview with Liv and Belle!


Before you begin: Quinoa is a grain from the Andes and has been eaten for thousands of years by native people in South America. It much prized by vegetarians because it has a lot of proteins that other grains don't have. This is a recipe that will need an adult with strong arms and a very sharp knife to cut the squash into rings. Acorn squash is a “winter”squash and unlike “summer”squash like zucchini, it has a very hard shell. The shell protects the acorn squash seeds while it lays on the ground through the whole winter. In the spring the shell will finally break open. The meat of the squash that you eat is really there to cover the seeds and nourish them while they germinate and grow roots that will burrow down into the soil. Serves 6.

You'll need:

• 1 Acorn squash - about 5 inches in diameter
• 2/3 cup light brown sugar –firmly packed
• ½ cup of butter or margarine –melted
• 4 tablespoons of vegetable bouillon
• 4 cups of water
• 1 large onion - diced
• 2 stalks of celery –finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon of ground sage
• 1-2 tablespoons of butter
• 2 roasted red peppers - cut into strips
• Cooking spray
• Aluminum foil
• Wax-lined paper cups –6-ounce size
• Adult help –big time!

Equipment:

• Measuring cups and spoons
• A cookie sheet
• A really sharp knife
• A 3-quart pot with lid
• A skillet
• Wooden spoons
• A pastry brush

Pilgrim's Hat How-to:

1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees F or 175 degrees C.
2. Lightly coat the cookie sheet with cooking spray.
3. Have dad or whoever is helping you cut the acorn squash in half through what would be the equator if it were a globe of the world. This will be difficult because of the shape of the squash. Have the adult start by making a little cut through the tough shell and then inserting the tip of the knife into the cut. The trick is to slide the knife in and turn the squash at the same time so the knife is only cutting through one wall of the squash at a time. Trying to saw through the squash is almost impossible. Have the adult slice the squash into 1-inch rings.
4. Pull the seeds and strings out of the center of the squash rings. Place them on the cookie sheet and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake at 350 degrees for 35-40 minutes or until tender.
6. While the squash is baking, boil 4 cups water then add the bouillon. You could also use 4 cups of vegetable stock.
7. Stir in 2 cups of quinoa and cook 10-15 minutes, or until all water is absorbed.
8. Meanwhile, combine the sugar and melted butter.
9. When the squash is tender, brush the butter/sugar mixture on the top side of the baked squash. Put it back in the oven and bake, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes.
10. Melt 1-2 tablespoons of butter in the skillet and sauté the onion and celery with the ground sage until onions are translucent. Mix into the cooked quinoa. Spoon the warm mixture into your paper cup "molds" and press them firmly to set the shape. Lay the candied squash rings on individual plates. Carefully, turn out a quinoa hat “crown”into middle of each squash ring. Garnish with a roasted red pepper strip for the hatband.

Happy Turkey Day! -Liv and Belle!

Watch the webvideo on how to make a Pilgrim's Hat and other Thanksgiving recipes from Spatulatta!

6 Psycho Questions with the Spatulatta Girls!

Liv and Belle Gerasole in action!

I am so pleased to be able to introduce you to our cool, crazy people of the month, Isabella and Olivia Gerasole, the hosts of the web-based Spatulatta cooking show! Their innovative idea has won them a legion of fans who learn new skills and share recipes with the Gerasole girls, who are the youngest James Beard award winners in history! With interests that vary from tightrope walking to musical theater, the busy Gerasole girls also make live cooking appearance, have written a cool cook book that not only inspire little ones to great heights but all of we adults as well. And they also remind us to eat our veggies in a spunky way that we think is super cool!

PsychoBaby: "What is the coolest thing that ever happened to you?"
Isabella: "I think going on the Tonight Show and doing an interview with Jay Leno. The other guests were Regis Philbin and Ringo Starr- that was cool!"
Olivia: "Once, I was eating an Oreo, and it rolled down my arm and I caught it and ate it!"

PB: "What is the craziest fashion statement you have ever made?"
Belle: "Leggings, black shorts, green sleeveless printed turtleneck, maroon ruffly shirt and yellow striped sweater."
Liv: "Black and orange striped leggings, red shorts, crazy t-shirt."
(We hear you girls- it is always those leggings!-Ed.)

PB: "What is your favorite book?"
Belle: "All Harry Potter, especially HP and the Deathly Hallows."
Liv: "Deltora Quest series"

PB: What toys can you just not live without?"
Belle: "Dress-up"
Liv: "The Wii!"

PB: "If you could have a superpower, what would it be?"
Belle: "To read people's minds!"
Liv: "Too many to choose- Super strength...no...flying..no, I guess Super strength!"

PB: "Who are the coolest parents you know (ties between your Mom and Dad are totally understandable!)?"
Belle: "Mr. and Mrs. Jones, my friend Evan's Mom and Dad."
Liv: "Mr. Redmond, my good friend Jasmine's father."

To cook with the cool girls of Spatulatta, check out their web-based cooking show along with their blog and fun extras!

Liv and Belle doing a cookbook signing at the Scholastic Store

Freaky Friday #5

Wow, we know everyone is gearing up for the Holidays, and this Freaky Friday is our gift to you! Join us for 70% off toys from Melissa and Doug, Creativity for Kids and more!

Freaky Friday Clue #5

You give them at Christmas and Hanukkah! Stay tuned for fun!

Let's Talk Turkey: Give To Our Virtual Feather Food Drive!

My, how many feathers you have! For those of you who missed our previous post, we have a Giant Turkey (heretofore known as the Turkey-Lurkey) hanging in our brick and mortar store. We are collecting feathers of thanks that get posted to Turkey-Lurkey, and for each feather we receive, Psycho Baby is donating a canned or dry food item to the Association House Food Drive! We are collecting feathers through 12/1 and are so happy to have this blog so everyone can join in the fun! We currently have over 100 feathers (we had to make a wing addition! [no pun intended]), which means 100 more food items for those in need!
If you are near the brick and mortar, stop by and fill out a feather in person, and check out our Turkey-Lurkey (he's wearing gymmers and is very very cute!). Otherwise post a Comment and let us know what you're thankful for! We are thankful for you, and all of your virtual feather posts that are going to make this a merrier Holiday season for a lot of families in the Chicago area! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Get more info on Psycho Baby events!

posted by Kristina

Mama Lavona's Astrology: Baby Scorpio and Sagittarius

Greetings, friends! As the winds grow colder, we welcome little Scorpios and Sagittarians to the world!
SCORPIO

Scorpios are deep and intense. They feel and do everything with great passion. Emotions run deep for those native to this sign. (However, their deepest feeling are usually kept hidden.) They love a good mystery...but no scary movies! They are deeply affected by everything around which can make them feel insecure at times. For this reason (s)he may become possessive of those she loves. Sibling rivalry is not uncommon with Scorpio children. Reassure him/her often that (s)he is loved and safe. A Scorpio child treated with love and kindness will stay close to you for life. But a hurt Scorpio can be very unforgiving or vengeful even! Handle with Care! Scorpios need a great deal of privacy and special place to call their own where (s)he feels safe and secure. Give him/her a little box where he/she can hide special mementos. Or a diary with lock and key. Scorpios despite their deep emotions are not wishy washy at all and will impress you with their strong
will and determination.

Birthstone: Topaz, Bloodstone

Essential Oil: Rose, Myrrh

Gift Ideas: A Safe, diary with lock and key, microscope














SAGITTARIUS

Sagittarius is as optimistic as they come! They are blessed with a sunny disposition! But can just as easily flare up into a temper tantrum if (s)he is kept waiting for anything. Don’t worry though, the episodes are usually brief and (s)he’ll return to his/her warm loving self. Sagittarians are happiest when exploring the world around them. They love going for long walks, seeing new faces and new places. Sagittarius is not likely to sit back and watch the parade go by, they want to be on the float! They are players not spectators! Sports will keep them happy AND out of trouble.. Your little one one will have quite an affinity with animals, so trips to the zoo will be a hit. Freedom and exploration are the keys to happiness for Sagittarrius. But it’s important to know when to say ‘NO’ so s(he) doesn’t wander down inappropriate paths. This little tyke is sure to keep you on your toes!

Birthstone: Lapis Lazuli, turquoise

Essential Oil: Bergamot, calendula, clove

Gift Ideas: Globe, atlas, sports equipment, dance or martial arts lessons


Check out the Cabinet of Curiosities on Lady Lavona's Blog!
Shop for more Cool Newborn Gifts for Your Scorpio or Sag!

It's Bump Day, And We Just Got New Paul Frank Onesies!

You'd almost think we planned it this way, but we are just not that slick! The new Paul Frank baby onesies (including new colors or Julius and the funny Joe Mama tee!) are perfect yummy, squishy cuteness for your little one, and also make Great Gifts for all your pals! We have loved Paul Frank's style for a long while now, but we think Julius and Skurvy are about 9 million times cuter when they're on a onesie, romper or footie! Paul Frank's baby collection also includes fun soft rattles and a crocheted Julius that is sure to make your lil monkey smile!

Congratulations to Big Hair Contest Winner, Nicole!

To quote the fabulous Stevie Wonder, "Isn't She Lovely?" The winning look, from Nicole of Chicago, is called the "Wall Of Hair" and Nicole was kind enough to let us in on her hairstyling tips!
To get the Wall of Hair, "A curling iron, fine tooth comb, lots of aerosol spray and a blow dryer are needed. Curl it all, rat it up, spray, bow dry and repeat. After plenty of hairspray and 20 minutes, you, too, can have a WALL of hair like this. Pretty classy stuff. Goes well with leggings, jelly shoes, oversized blazer with large shoulder pads, and lots of bracelets. Long Live the 80's, but thankfully, this hairstyle was put to rest long ago and has since been replaced by a much-more toned down (ie no wall style)." Thanks for the tips, Nicole. You've made everyone really happy with your big hair, except of course, those poor hair spray bottles that long for your tresses!
Nicole is the winner of the cool Bead Shop Styling Kit, which is a super cool gift for your Little Lady! Hopefully, we can get some cool pics of the new looks created!

posted by Kristina, who also had Big Hair

Freaky Friday: 70% off Cool Diaper Bags!

It's time for us to make way for new styles from Fleurville, Diaper Dude and Skip Hop Diaper Bags, and that's why today's Freaky Friday celebrates new Moms with 70% select cool styles! Act fast and let these cool diaper bags shoulder your stuff in style!

Bookmark Freaky Fridays now!

Freaky Friday, Clue #4

Oh, my special blog readers, do we have a treat for you! Be sure to log on with you pregnant pal to reap the benefits of our visit to very-cool-ville! Give a guess as to what the Freaky Friday product is in Comments!

Its Bump Day! Pumpkin Baby Food Is Yummy!

Oh, yummy yummy Thanksgiving food can also be a treat for your baby as well! Give thanks for solid food for the 6-month-and-up set with a yummy Pumpkin treat! We found one on wholesomebabyfood.com, which is a wealth of information on making mouth-watering food for your little diaper-pants! Check out their site for more recipes and tips for making your own baby food, and share your own homemade recipes in our Comments! Golly, we don't know about you, but this is making us hungry!

For yummy baby and kids food gifts, shop psychobabyonline.com

image courtesy of en.wikivisual.com

Join Our Virtual Food Drive For Association House!

This is our turkey. He wears sneakers and is super cute and was created by Anna for our storefront as a way to give thanks for all the riches we all enjoy. Our-as-of-yet-unnamed turkey-lurkey has another gift to give though. We are asking clients at our brick and mortar to fill out a feather and say what they are thankful for this Holiday seaaon. For every feather completed, we will donate a canned or packaged food item to the Association House Food Drive we have started, as we would love your help! Consider our Comments section your virtual feathers - we will add you to our turkey in-house and give you updates on our turkey's progress if you'll tell us what you're thankful for. This has been really fun to do with the kids, and all of the feathers go to a great cause, so please join us in giving our turkey some flair! We'll begin. . . we are thankful for you!

Yummy! We'll take 5 Take 5's, Thank You!

So, in the aftermath of Halloween, Lisa brought her extra candy to our main office in what can only be described as a giant bag o sugar! She always has the most happenin' Halloween house with decorations and a scare walk and all that kind of fun stuff, and as you can imagine, that sort of thing requires a lot of candy. We were lucky enough to luck out and get the residuals! Everyone was all excited about the array of Blow Pops and delicious Kit Kats, Hershey Bars and such. That was, until, we rooted around in the bag and found what has been ruled The Best Candy This Office Has Ever Seen! We have taken a vote. It is unanimous (except for "strict veggie" Katy, who opted out!). Take 5 Rules!!!! It is made by the Hershey's Company, and for this goodness, we would like to say, thank you Hershey's. Seriously, the next time you Take5 have a Take 5 with its chocolate, peanut, peanut butter, pretzel goodness. There' s no need to thank us- we're taking 5!


-posted by Kristina

Free Ground Shipping On ALL Orders 'Cause You Are Cool And Crazy!

Hey loyal readers! When you shop for cool baby clothes and such at psychobabyonline.com enter Coupon Code FS-PSYCHOBLOG to receive free shipping on all your standard orders through 12/31/08. We hope this makes you holiday preparation a little bit more festive!

image courtesy of lightmill.com

Freaky Fridays: #3 Cuter Than A Duck's Butt Sale!

I hope we didn't drive you quackers with the clue yesterday, but our Freaky Fridays special is Cuter Than a Duck's Butt, and our prices are crazier than a. . . oh, I don't even know, but CTaDB Cart Covers are now $25, and Car Seat Covers are down to $50! Shop Freaky Fridays now before those duckies disappear!

Freaky Fridays, Clue #3

Well, that's pretty cute, right? This week's Freaky Fridays special is even cuter!

PS) That illustration is super cute, and if you are interested in seeing more, it is from an illustrator who is right here on Blogger - be sure to check out Jamie Brunell while you wait for tomorrow's deal to appear!

And three more things, just cos they bring the cuteness!

We just got 'em in and we are melting down over how cute they are! Pick up a KISS, Mom and Dad or Jolly Rodger Sourpuss Feeding set ($18/each), and give your pals one yummy baby shower gift! Also, if you are into the rock n roll baby and kids clothes, check out the other New Arrivals from Sourpuss!

It's Bump Day, and we've got comething yummy for you!

So, we got three new baby feeding sets from Sourpuss, and that, combined with Thanksgiving being on the way has inspired us to do a series of in-fun-mational articles on Baby Food! We were Googling our tushies off today, and happened upon these ingenious Jumbo Baby Food Cubes that we are melting down over! Now, some of us made baby food all the time while our kids were growing, and these look to be a super upgrade from earlier forms! The cubes are all 2 oz individual containers with attached lids, that are perfect for storing breastmilk or yummy foods and have a tray that they fit into that makes it easy to freeze! These are getting great reviews, and they are giving us all those newborn longings! If anyone out there has used these cool cubes, share your info with all our soon-to-be Moms in the Comments section!

image courtesy of onestepahead.com

Get On Out And Vote!

We are so excited that it is Election Day (with a little extra giddiness on the side, courtesy of their free Starbucks coffee!). If you are near our brick and mortar store, stop by today with your voting receipt to receive 10% off!!
We all saw a lot of children accompanying their parents for voting, and learning about the voting process. We thought it would be fun to share Presidential Facts with your kids!

1. The tallest President was 6' 4" (Lincoln), while the shortest was 5' 4" (Madison)

2. The oldest elected President was Reagan and the youngest was Kennedy.

3. The only President to serve two non-consecutive terms was Cleveland.

4. The first President to appear on television was FDR.

5. The first President to ride a train was Jackson.

Let us know in the Comments how you celebrated the election with your kids!