October 1st: Weekend Events, 'Marinitas' review, Civic Center Farmers Market Play Date, Weekly Calendar of Activities








Welcome to this week’s edition, hope you are keeping cool during this intense heat we are having during the first days of fall. Make the most of it while it lasts, at lots of seasonal fairs going on around Marin and Southern Sonoma. Support our local farmers and their delicious produce as you enjoy a play date, and get into a Latin mood at a great restaurant in San Anselmo.


Weekend Events

Friday October 1st

Friday Night Fusion, the Village Corte Madera, from 5.30 – 7.30 pm
Local musicians perform while you enjoy a wine tasting presented by Sonoma County Vintners for $15 per person including a local cheese plate.


Saturday October 2nd

Andy’s Local Market’, 688 Point San Pedro Road, San Rafael from 11.00 am – 4 pm free, & evening concert 7.00 – 11.00 pm, general admission $50. www.andyssummerfest.com
A family style carnival at the Loch Lomond Marina which is helping to support San Rafael City Schools. It features a petting zoo, pony rides, art, games, bouncy houses, Triumph skateboard demonstrations and kid’s stage with school music groups. BBQ by Sol Food and Lagunitas beer garden.

‘12th Annual Hometown Festival’, the grounds of the Unity of Marin Church, Palm Drive at 11 – 4.00 pm
This year’s theme is “Celebrating Our Diversity and everyone is invited to ethnic forms of dress. There will be games, arts and crafts for children and the popular local band ‘The Hamiltones’ will perform alongside a children’s ethnic dance group. Food and drink provided by a variety of local vendors such as Café Joel, Hamilton Café, Sonoma Latina Grill and Homeward Bound.

‘Timothy Murphy School Pumpkin Patch’, St Vincent’s Field @ Marinwood/St Vincent exit off Hwy 101, October 2nd – 29th, from 10.00 – 5.30 pm. www.godmothers.org
A variety of activities including hay pile, bounce houses, snack shack and pumpkins galore, all proceeds will benefit the Timothy Murphy School at St Vincents.

Olivia Goes to Venice’ Event, Borders, 588 Francisco Blvd West, San Rafael 11.00 am, www.borders.com
Launch of Olivia, the stylish pig’s new adventure in Venice, Italy.


Saturday & Sunday October 2nd & 3rd

Sonoma Country Harvest Fair, 1350 Bennett Valley Road, Santa Rosa, Sat & Sunday 10.00 – 7.00 pm, adults $8, older kids $3 & kids under 6 are free. www.harvestfair.org
The fair is a celebration of harvest featuring a Ferris wheel, merry-go-round, zipper, super slide, tea cup ride, free wagon rides, early engine display, hay maze and other barnyard games. Wine tasting with 150+ wineries, chef demonstrations, microbrew tasting on the Saturday only and continuous live jazz and art show.


Sunday October 3rd

‘Princess Ballerina Benefit Concert & Silent Auction, Mill Valley Community Center, 180 Camino Alto, Mill Valley, 3.00 – 4.30 pm, $15 -20.
Event featuring a princess beauty makeover salon, professional princess photographs, bouncy house, games and activities, edible treats and performances by Miss Kitty, Tutu School students, Baby Bird music and Performing  Arts Academy of Marin Broadway Ensemble.




Play Date Idea

The Farmer’s Market at the Civic Center in San Rafael, on Thursdays mornings (8.00 am – 1.00 pm) are much more family friendly than Sundays, as it is smaller and quieter now that older kids are back to school, allowing parents to maneuver their strollers around the vendors with ease.

A good place to start is at the bouncy houses and puppet show where toddlers sit attentively enjoying the music and their favorite characters from Sesame Street. Once the show is over move through the market where there are plenty of fresh fruit for the kids to sample as you grab your waffle or pastry from the bakery and much needed cup of coffee at the new ‘Maddie’s Mud’ (Marinwood’s new neighborhood vendor providing good coffee and conversation). Our other favorite vendors are the ‘Home Made Ravioli & Olive Co’ that offers pesto, dips, olives and wonderful fresh pasta; the Ravioli is delicious especially the butternut squash which is a winner with the kids. Look out for fresh muffins such coconut & banana or orange & zucchini, also the naughty but nice ‘Teeny Cake’ that offers mini size cupcakes, a special treat for little ones.

The seating area on the opposite side of the market always has great music by local musicians playing and is surrounded by great hot food venders such as Aidell’s Sausage, Pizza Politana and Brittany Crepes & Galettes. So you can sink your teeth into a hot sausage sandwich on Rosemary bread or a margarita pizza washed down with organic lemonade while enjoying the musical performance.

Next, take a stroll around the lake, past the petting zoo and pony rides to the Civic Center Park for some much needed free play which will tire them out for their afternoon nap.








Restaurant of the Week

Marinitas, 218 Sir Frances Drake Blvd, San Anselmo, www.marinitas.net

Marinitas is a great place for a family lunch or early evening dinner, it is also a fabulous place to enjoy Margaritas on a balmy evening with friends. The place itself has a wonderful ambiance due to its Latin style deco, tall open windows, and exotic dark wood interior.

The surroundings reflects the Mexican and Latin America inspired menu that has a modern twist, the majority of which are offered as small plates so you get to try a variety of flavors. Some examples include the Empanadas filled with linguisa sausage, potato, caramelized onions, swiss chard and Oaxaca cheese, Queso Fundido with three cheeses, chorizo, crushed potatoes and pumpkin seeds blended with smoky chile sauce, cilantro creme and nopales salad. My husband loves the Ceviche served in three different styles; Classic which is shellfish, tomato and lime, Vera Cruzano which is scallops, roasted Serrano chile, orange, cucumber, jicama and avocado sauce, and Tuna Crudo which is adobo and cucumber. The Enchiladas and tacos are great especially the Taco filled with grilled steak, avocado, grilled onion and chipole sauce. I recommend ordering side dishes of green rice and black beans which my son devoured with a Grilled chicken and avocado sandwich.

The desserts are really wonderful, especially the Mexican Chocolate Pot de crème or the Vanilla Ice Cream Sundae with cajeta sauce, peanuts and Mexican Wedding Cookie, delicioso!




A Weekly Calendar of Toddler Appropriate Activities in Marin


Monday

10 .00 - 10.30 am - Kid's Story Time Club, Pharmaca, 7514 Redwood Blvd, Novato

10.30 – 11.15 am – ‘Music Together of Marin’, The Parent’s Place, 600 Fifth Ave, San Rafael

3.00 – 5.00 pm – Crawlers Camp (up to 23 months) at Stretch the Imagination, 47 Tamal Vista Blvd.


Tuesday

10.00 – 10.30 am - ‘Baby Bounce’ Story time at Novato Library, 1720 Novato Blvd

10.00 – 11.30 am - ‘Jumping Jacks’ at the San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street, San Rafael

10.00 – 11.30 am - ‘Drop in Play’ at The Parent’s Place, 600 Fifth Ave, San Rafael

10.15 - 10.45 am - 'Music Circle', at The Parents Center, Heller's Store, 514 4th Street, San Rafael

11.00 - 11.30 am – ‘Book Club Story Time’ at ‘Pottery Barns Kids’ store, Corte Madera Village

4.00 – 8.00 pm - Farmer’s market, Grant Avenue, Novato


Wednesday

9.30 - 12.00 pm - 'Power Play' at Cal Star Gym is back! Digital Drive, Ignacio

10.15 – 10.45 am - ‘Music Circle’ at The Parents Center, Heller’s store, 514 4th St, San Rafael

10.30 – 10.50 am – ‘Story Time with Miss Kitty', Civic Center Library

10.30 - 11.30 am - Drop in Play, MLK Gym, 610 Colma Street, Sausalito

11.00 - 11.30 am – Story Time at Giggle Store, Corte Madera Village

3.00 – 5.00 pm – Crawlers Camp (up to 23 months) at Stretch the Imagination, Corte Madera

4.00 – 8.00 pm - Farmer’s Market, Bolinas Park, Bolinas Road, Fairfax


Thursday

8.00 – 1.00 pm – Farmers Market, The Civic Center (Puppet Show and balloon lady by Jumpy Houses)

9.30 - 12.00 pm - 'Power Play' at Cal Star Gym, Digital Drive, Ignacio, Novato

9.30 – 10.30 am – ‘Jumping Jacks’, San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street, San Rafael

10.30 – 11.00 am – Story Time at San Rafael Library, 618 B Street, San Rafael

11.00 - 11.30 am - Story Time at Barnes & Noble, 313 Corte Madera Center

3.30 - 4.00 pm - 'Stories with Phil Sheridan', Sausalito Library, 420 Litho Street

3.00 – 7.00 pm – Farmers Market, Marin Art & Garden Center, 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross 

6.00 – 9.00 pm - Farmers Market, 4th St, between Lincoln and B St, San Rafael


Friday

10.30 - 11.30 am - Story Time with Sarah Bonnett, San Rafael Library, 618 B Street, San Rafael (until Oct 1st)

10.30 - 11.30 am - Tot's Club, City Hall Parks & Recreation, 420 Litho Street, Exercise Room, Sausalito

9.00 – 2.00 pm – Farmers Market, Alto Shopping Center, Mill Valley

9.00 am – 2.00 pm – Farmers Market, Bank of America parking lot, Downtown Sausalito




September 24th: Weekend Events, Restaurant of the Week & Weekly Calendar of Activities


Welcome to this week’s edition of The Marin Scoop. Lots of great festivals on this weekend around the Bay Area, especially for those who enjoy music. The ‘Restaurant of the Week’ is one of my favorite places to get great Neapolitan style pizza while enjoying the sunshine in Ignacio. 


The link below is a free pass to the 'California Academy of Sciences' this Saturday 25th, click on link, apply for the "required pass" to be emailed to you, print out pass for admission. Enjoy!


http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/museum-search/?state=California



Weekend Events

Friday 24th

The Great Peter Pumpkin Patch, Spring Hill Cheese Co, 4235 Spring Hill Road, Petaluma from Friday Sep 24th - Sunday October 31st, 9.00 am 'till dusk

Pick your own pumpkin, take a hay ride and experience the farm by petting baby animals, milk a cow, dig for potatoes and taste freshly made ice cream and cheese. Live music will be on weekends. www.springhillcheese.com

Concerts Under The Oak, Northgate Mall, from 6.30 - 8.00 pm

Tom Petty tribute band 'Petty Theft' performs in the plaza behind Kohls, with food and beers available for purchase from BJs Brewhouse. 

Friday Night Fusion, The Village Corte Madera from 5.30 - 7.30 pm.

Local musicians perform while you enjoy a wine tasting presented by Sonoma County Vintners for $15 per person including a local cheese plate.

Saturday 25th

'Blackie's Hay Day', Blackie's Pasture Park, Tiburon, from 10.00 am - 3.00 pm - Free entry with new or gently used books to raise funds for the Belvedere Tiburon Library.

A fun day out for children of all ages that is reminiscent of an old fashioned country fair. Enjoy pony rides, relay races, toy tractor rides, petting zoo and reptile zoo, cowboy jumpee, tot hay ride, cow milking, family games and live entertainment including Chris Smith, Miss Kitty, Cindy Cohen and Tim Cain at 11.15 am and 12.30pm. www.blackieshayday.com 


'Marinwood Annual Children's Toy & Clothing sale, Marinwood Community Center, Miller Creek Road, from 10.00 am - 4.00 pm
Rummage through three rooms of clothing, toys, books and lots of baby and toddler equipment at bargain prices.


KidAroo Music Festival, Little Marina Green, San Francisco, from 11 - 5.00 pm, $20 adult or $60 family
Live music provided by 'The Sippy Cups' at noon, 'Ralph's World' at 1.30 pm, 'Choo Choo Soul' (pictured) at 3.30 pm. Face painting, balloons animals, reptile zoo, meet the San Francisco Fire Department and enjoy local food and the 'world's largest lemonade stand'!

Saturday 25th & Sunday 26th

The Mill Valley Fall Arts Festival, Old Mill Park, 320 Throckmorton Ave, from 10.30 am - 5.00 pm. Free entry for under 12 yrs old.
Two days of kid’s entertainment including Fratello Marionettes, stories by Georgia Churchill, magic by Benny, music by Dave Fromer. www.mvfaf.org 

Sunday 26th


San Anselmo Country Fair, San Anselmo Avenue, from 10.00 - 3.00 pm –free. 

The pancake breakfast at the Fire Station actually begins at 7.00 am (#19) and the parade begins at 11.00 am. Food, drink, art activities, games and live entertainment by Tim Cain  at the Creek Park Stage at 1.45 pm. www.townofsananselmo.org

'Oktoberfest By The Bay', Pier 48, San Francisco, from 11.00 - 6.0 pm - $30 adults and free entry for under 12 yr old.
The festival is happening from Thursday night but it is only encouraged to bring children on Sunday which is German Day. The Chico Bavarian Band and the Internationals provide the live music, and traditional dancing every couple of hours. German food and beer available. www.oktoberfestbythebay.com 


The Restaurant of the Week

'Boca Pizzeria, 454 Ignacio Blvd, Novato

Boca Pizzeria opened in June and is one of our favorite places to go for lunch and dinner, I thought most people would know about it already, but apparently not so I thought I would help spread the word!

It is an authentic Neapolitan style pizzeria which means their pizzas are cooked in a 900 degree Italian wood burning oven so they cook for no more than 2 minutes. Most of their ingredients are locally sourced by supporting local farmers and providing the freshest ingredients. The pizzeria is situated in the Ignacio Pacheco Shopping Plaza, just round the corner from the original Boca Steak restaurant. It has a modern industrial look with high wooden loft-style ceilings surrounded by glass windows, a great bar area with a communal table and booth seating and an open kitchen that can also be enjoyed from the front and side patio areas.

The 12-inch pizzas are absolutely amazing, our favorites are the Calabrese, the Prosciutto di Parma and the Lamb Sausage pizza with added wild mushrooms. The salads are so fresh and delicious especially the Roast Beet with roasted hazelnuts, sheep's Feta and creamy citrus dressing and the Rustico with grilled rosemary bread, black olives, Heirloom cherry tomatoes and sherry vinaigrette. The pasta options include a Portobello & Porcini Mushroom Ravioli or a Braised Beef Short Ribs Pappardelle. The lunch and dinner menu is the same but there is the option of sandwiches for lunch. The kids's menu includes a Cheese Pizza, Linguini, Grilled Cheese sandwich or our son's favorite, the Grilled Chicken and Mashed Potato, unfortunately last time we were there our server forgot to place his order, and then they ran out of mashed potato!?! But  he didn't seem to care as he was too busy tucking into our Cannellini Bean Cassoullet side dish which was so rustic and comforting, and we got a free second helping  as an apology. It definitely won't stop us from going back to Boca Pizzeria again and again! 
www.bocapizzeria.com



A Weekly Calendar of Toddler Appropriate Activities in Marin


Monday

10 .00 - 10.30 am - Kid's Story Time Club, Pharmaca, 7514 Redwood Blvd, Novato

10.30 – 11.15 am – ‘Music Together of Marin’, The Parent’s Place, 600 Fifth Ave, San Rafael

3.00 – 5.00 pm – Crawlers Camp (up to 23 months) at Stretch the Imagination, 47 Tamal Vista Blvd.


Tuesday

10.00 – 10.30 am - ‘Baby Bounce’ Story time at Novato Library, 1720 Novato Blvd

10.00 – 11.30 am - ‘Jumping Jacks’ at the San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street, San Rafael

10.00 – 11.30 am - ‘Drop in Play’ at The Parent’s Place, 600 Fifth Ave, San Rafael

10.15 - 10.45 am - 'Music Circle', at The Parents Center, Heller's Store, 514 4th Street, San Rafael

11.00 - 11.30 am – ‘Book Club Story Time’ at ‘Pottery Barns Kids’ store, Corte Madera Village

4.00 – 8.00 pm - Farmer’s market, Grant Avenue, Novato


Wednesday

9.30 - 12.00 pm - 'Power Play' at Cal Star Gym is back! Digital Drive, Ignacio

10.15 – 10.45 am - ‘Music Circle’ at The Parents Center, Heller’s store, 514 4th St, San Rafael

10.30 – 10.50 am – ‘Story Time with Miss Kitty', Civic Center Library

10.30 - 11.30 am - Drop in Play, MLK Gym, 610 Colma Street, Sausalito

11.00 - 11.30 am – Story Time at Giggle Store, Corte Madera Village

3.00 – 5.00 pm – Crawlers Camp (up to 23 months) at Stretch the Imagination, Corte Madera

4.00 – 8.00 pm - Farmer’s Market, Bolinas Park, Bolinas Road, Fairfax


Thursday

8.00 – 1.00 pm – Farmers Market, The Civic Center (Puppet Show and balloon lady by Jumpy Houses)

9.30 - 12.00 pm - 'Power Play' at Cal Star Gym, Digital Drive, Ignacio, Novato

9.30 – 10.30 am – ‘Jumping Jacks’, San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street, San Rafael

10.30 – 11.00 am – Story Time at San Rafael Library, 618 B Street, San Rafael

11.00 - 11.30 am - Story Time at Barnes & Noble, 313 Corte Madera Center

3.30 - 4.00 pm - 'Stories with Phil Sheridan', Sausalito Library, 420 Litho Street

3.00 – 7.00 pm – Farmers Market, Marin Art & Garden Center, 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross 

6.00 – 9.00 pm - Farmers Market, 4th St, between Lincoln and B St, San Rafael


Friday

10.30 - 11.30 am - Story Time with Sarah Bonnett, San Rafael Library, 618 B Street, San Rafael (until Oct 1st)

10.30 - 11.30 am - Tot's Club, City Hall Parks & Recreation, 420 Litho Street, Exercise Room, Sausalito

9.00 – 2.00 pm – Farmers Market, Alto Shopping Center, Mill Valley

9.00 am – 2.00 pm – Farmers Market, Bank of America parking lot, Downtown Sausalito

September 17th: Weekend Events, Play Date Idea, Restaurant of the Week & Weeky Calendar

Welcome to this week's edition of 'The Marin Scoop'. If you want to travel a little further afield for a play date or a family outing at the weekend then head over to Tilden Park in Berkeley which has so many great fun things to do. The Restaurant of the Week is a great place in Larkspur that allows you to enjoy the woodland outside, inside their period building.
It would be great to make this blog more interactive by letting me know your thoughts on the events and ideas posted each week. If you attend any the activities, what you thought of them or have any questions or suggestions then please let me know by adding comments below the post. Thank you and enjoy!

Weekend Events


Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th

Family Day Kite Festival, from 11- 4.00 pm, Marina Green, San Francisco, between Scott & Webster St.
Watch the spectacular kites flown high above the Bay from acrobatic moves by world champions to the hand-made entries of amateurs. The festival will not only feature kite-flying but kite-boarding, kite-boating and other examples of wind power entertainment. Free kites provided for all ages at the ABC Make a Kite Pavilion. http://www.fdkf.org/ 


'Magic Circus' at Belrose Theatre, Sat from 8.00 - 10.00 pm, 1415 Fifth Street, San Rafael, $20
Benny Bendini's 'Incredible Magic Hat Show' and Germar's 'Comedy Magic with a Twist. http://www.magiccircus.com/


Sunday 19th

'The 3Bs', from 2.00 - 7.00 pm, Dickson Ranch, 182 San Geronimo Valley Drive, free
Neighbourhood events with live music, children's activities, bubbles and live music. http://www.dicksonranch.net/

'Oktober/Kinderfest', from 12 - 6.00 pm, German Tourist Club, 30 Ridge Avenue,  Mill Valley, $15
Annual German culture festival featuring a polka band, traditional group dances in traditional dress, and a menu of German food and beer. 
http://www.touristcllubsf.org/ 

Sunday Morning Story Time, Book Passage, 51 Tamal Vista Blvd, at 11 - 11.30 am
Join the wonderful Christopher Smith for an uplifting sing song and story time

'JAMband Family Festival' from 3.00 pm, The Park Chalet/Beach Chalet, San Francisco
The last show of the summer season on the lawn of The Park Chalet at the end of Golden Gate Park, nestled between the forest and the ocean. 'The Hipwaders' at 3.00 pm & 'Charity and the Jamband' at 3.45 pm. http://www.jamjamjam.com/ 


Play Date Idea
Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley
If you feel like taking a little outing outside Marin then head over to Tilden Regional Park in Berkeley for a fun day out! It features the Regional Parks Botanic Garden of California native plants, an 18 hole golf course, and the nature area is 740-acre preserve with 10+ miles of hiking trails.

The park has fun features for kids such as the beautifully restored Herschell-Spillman merry-go-round which is open at weekends from 11.00 - 5.00 pm. The Redwood Valley Railway with miniature trains running at weekends from 11.00 - 6.00 pm. Also The Little Farm featuring cows, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens, rabbits and ducks. The sheep and goats appreciate a good munch, so remember to bring celery and lettuce for them!
The park's gem is a small sandy beach at Lake Anza surrounded by beautiful scenery and wildlife, the perfect setting for a picnic. Refreshments such as sandwiches, hot dogs and ice cream are also available from the Lake Anza Beach Club.
http://www.ebparks.org/


Restaurant of the Week
Tavern at Lark Creek, 234 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur

The real feature of this restaurant is the building, an 1888 Victorian Murphy House that has great character and ambiance. The main dining room has a huge glass central skylight so you feel like you are eating inside a conservatory, which allows you to enjoy the trees and beautiful woodland surroundings outside. It also has a large dining table in the middle of the restaurant which is great for large family gatherings and group bookings. It also has a garden patio for alfresco dining.
We have found the service to be friendly and efficient and they make kids very welcome, which adds to the warm cozy atmosphere, something you want as the temperature cools down   The Tavern is great for weekend brunch, my husband likes either the Corn Beef Hash with caramelized onions, peppers, and two poached eggs, or the Spanish Chorizo Scramble with onion, spinach and pecorino cheese. I like both the Country and Pacific Benedict with Smoked Salmon and asparagus. You can also build your own Tavern Burger with sauteed mushrooms, caramelized onion, Applewood bacon and more. My son likes their Mac & cheese or scrambled egg with sausage and an English muffin.
You have the option of building your own Prix Fixe Dinner by selecting a starter or salad, an entree and a dessert for $28.95. Highlights from the menu include Alaskan Halibut, mushrooms, farro, English peas and radish salad, or Chicken Breast with Spanish Chorizo, savoy cabbage, crushed potatoes and spring onion broth, or the Mole Pork Shank with garbanzo beans, onion and peppers. 
The dessert menu matches the restaurant's cozy setting by offering homemade comfort food like the Rhubarb Crisp, oat streusel with vanilla ice cream, or the Butterscotch Pudding with chantilly cream and cookie or my favorite the Chocolate Bread Pudding with candied cocoa nibs and chocolate espresso ice cream, delicious!http://www.tavernatlarkcreek.com/

A Weekly Calendar of Toddler Friendly Activities Around Marin

Monday
10 .00 - 10.30 am - Kid's Story Time Club, Pharmaca, 7514 Redwood Blvd, Novato
10.30 – 11.15 am – ‘Music Together of Marin’, The Parent’s Place, 600 Fifth Ave, San Rafael
10.30 - 12.00 pm - Jumping Jacks, 118 Strawberry Drive, 2nd Floor Gym, Mill Valley
10.30 & 11.00 am - Baby Bounce for 2 yrs & under, Tiburon Library, 1501 Tiburon Blvd (Register)
3.00 – 5.00 pm – Crawlers Camp (up to 23 months) at Stretch the Imagination, 47 Tamal Vista Blvd


Tuesday10.00 – 10.30 am - ‘Baby Bounce’ Story time at Novato Library, 1720 Novato Blvd
10.00 – 11.30 am - ‘Jumping Jacks’ at the San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street, San Rafael
10.00 – 11.30 am - ‘Drop in Play’ at The Parent’s Place, 600 Fifth Ave, San Rafael
10.15 - 10.45 am - 'Music Circle' & stay for 'Play Date' until 1.15 pm at The Parents Center, Heller's Store, 514 4th Street, San Rafael (for children under 3 years old)
11.00 - 11.30 am – ‘Book Club Story Time’ at ‘Pottery Barns Kids’ store, Corte Madera Village
4.00 – 8.00 pm - Farmer’s market, Grant Avenue, Novato

Wednesday9.30 - 12.00 pm - 'Power Play' at Cal Star Gym is back! Digital Drive, Ignacio
10.15 – 10.45 am - ‘Music Circle’ at The Parents Center, Heller’s store, 514 4th St, San Rafael
10.30 – 10.50 am – ‘Story Time with Miss Kitty', Civic Center Library
10.30 - 11.30 am - Drop in Play, MLK Gym, 610 Colma Street, Sausalito
11.00 - 11.30 am – Story Time at Giggle Store, Corte Madera Village
3.00 – 5.00 pm – Crawlers Camp (up to 23 months) at Stretch the Imagination, Corte Madera
4.00 – 8.00 pm - Farmer’s Market, Bolinas Park, Bolinas Road, Fairfax
6.30 pm - Sep 22nd musician Tim Cain will be performing at the Novato Library, 1720 Novato Blvd


Thursday
8.00 – 1.00 pm – Farmers Market, The Civic Center (Puppet Show and balloon lady by Jumpy Houses)
9.30 - 12.00 pm - 'Power Play' at Cal Star Gym, Digital Drive, Ignacio, Novato
9.30 – 10.30 am – ‘Jumping Jacks’, San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street, San Rafael
10.30 – 11.00 am – Story Time at San Rafael Library, 618 B Street, San Rafael
11.00 - 11.30 am - Story Time at Barnes & Noble, 313 Corte Madera Center
3.30 - 4.00 pm - 'Stories with Phil Sheridan', Sausalito Library, 420 Litho Street
3.00 – 7.00 pm – Farmers Market, Marin Art & Garden Center, 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross
6.00 – 9.00 pm - Farmers Market, 4th St, between Lincoln and B St, San Rafael


Friday

10.30 - 11.30 am - Story Time with Sarah Bonnett, San Rafael Library, 618 B Street, San Rafael (until Oct 1st)
10.30 - 11.30 am - Tot's Club, City Hall Parks & Recreation, 420 Litho Street, Exercise Room, Sausalito
9.00 – 2.00 pm – Farmers Market, Alto Shopping Center, Mill Valley
9.00 am – 2.00 pm – Farmers Market, Bank of America parking lot, Downtown Sausalito

September 10th: Weekend Events, Playdate Idea, Restaurant of the Week & Weekly Calendar of Activities

Welcome to this week's edition of 'The Marin Scoop'! As everyone goes back to school and the summer festival season comes to  an end, enjoy the changing colours of September, which is a beautiful month in Marin. Get out and explore Marinwood and Miller Creek for this week's Play Date Idea, and cool down under the tropical shade of the Panama Hotel Restaurant in San Rafael.
Enjoy!


Weekend Events


Saturday September 11th

'Concert for Kids', Robin Sweeny Park, 420 Litho Street, Sausalito, 10.30 am - 11.15 am
Bring a blanket and enjoy Miss Kitty perfoming a sing along concert in the park.

'Happy 60th Birthday Fairyland', Lake Merritt at Grand Ave & Bellevue, Sat & Sun 10 - 4pm
Puppet show, arts & crafts, dance performances, 50's Sock Hop, a variety of plays and musicians perform at the Children's Theatre, and a fantasy costume party so come dressed as your favorite storybook chararacter or in a 50s outfit.

Chocolate Festival, Ghiradelli Square, San Francisco, Sat & Sun 12.00 - 5.00 pm
Enjoy chocolate inspired family activities and indulge in delicacies with the proceeds benefiting 'Project Open hand.

Farmer's Market, Marinwood Plaza, from 9.00 am - 2.00 pm

'Art in the Park', Walnut Park, Petaluma Blvd & D Street, Petaluma, Sat & Sun, 10 - 5.00 pm.
The annual Art Show and Sale in Walnut Park with live music, food and raffles to benfit local schools.


Sunday September 12th

Sunday Morning Story Time, Book Passage, 51 Tamal Vista Blvd, at 11 - 11.30 am
The wonderful Christopher Smith is back at the Book Passage after his summer vacation, join him for an uplifting sing song and story time.

Annual Kid's Fair, Peace Lutheran Church Parking Lot, from 11.00 - 3.00 pm
Food and drink available at this annual Kid's Fair with lots of entertainment including jumpees, kid slides and a petting zoo full of sheep, goats chickens, Alpaca, and a Pot Belly pig.



Play Date Idea

Now that Marinwood has quieted down after the bustling activities during the summer holidays with various summer camps, it is an ideal place for a play date. There is a playground with a sand box shaded from the hot sun by large trees, and surrounded by an open grass area, picnic tables and a new improved BBQ area (available for group bookings). The Marinwood Fire Station next door is also available to hire for birthday parties.

The community center building has a preschool with a great reputation and offers classes and workshops all year round like children's music classes and Toddler Mini Sports. Check them out on http://www.marinwood.org/.  The swimming pool has a wonderful warm tot's pool that has a gated grass area with loungers and large parasols, perfect for a little group get together!

Also running behind the park is Miller Creek which is a wonderful stream that is great for little ones to search for rocks and take a stroll in the running water in their crocs or rain boots hand in hand with Mom or Dad!




Restaurant of the Week

Panama Hotel Restaurant, 4 Bayview Street, San Rafael

An unexpected delight situated in the quiet Gerstle park neighborhood of San Rafael sits the Panama Hotel Restaurant. A charming place just a few minutes walk from San Rafael's Community Center's park and the free wildlife sanctuary 'Wild Care'!

The restaurant has a patio with a secret garden feel, shaded by trees and tropical flowers, with some cute guest houses painted in vibrant Caribean colors, just peeping through the branches. It is a quiet place to go for early dinner from 5.30 pm or to hide away from the midday sun over a weekend brunch.

The staff are very friendly and accommodating by supplying some toys while we waited for our food. The kid's brunch options are the 'Panama Waffle' with bananas, warm chocolate sauce and whipped cream or the Jack Cheese Quesadilla with salsa fresca and sour cream. Alternatively our son just prefers the scrambled egg and sausage or bacon from the main menu. My husband enjoyed the Mediterranean Scramble Eggs with sun dried tomatoes, olives, feta cheese and basil served on a toasted English muffin, and I found their Eggs Benedict to be a winner or if i am really hungry I like to tuck into their Panama Burger with avocado, cheese, tomatoes and bacon with hand cut fries, which is also available for dinner.

Highlights from their dinner menu includes Fire Roasted Poblano Chile stuffed with quinoa, mushrooms, goats cheese, pine nuts and smokey red chile sauce served with rice and roasted squash, or Beef Short Ribs with sauteed rainbow Swiss chard, potato mash and crispy onion rings, also Pappardelle Pasta with grilled asparagus, poached egg, garden peas, pine nuts and brown butter, yum!

This popular neighborhood restaurant is also a great place for date night as you can enjoy dinner and jazz music every Tuesday and Thursday, and there is a special performance on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month. See full listings on their website; http://www.panamahotel.com/



A Weekly Calendar of Toddler Friendly Activities around Marin


Monday

10 .00 - 10.30 am - Kid's Story Time Club, Pharmaca, 7514 Redwood Blvd, Novato

10.30 – 11.15 am – ‘Music Together of Marin’, The Parent’s Place, 600 Fifth Ave, San Rafael

3.00 – 5.00 pm – Crawlers Camp (up to 23 months) at Stretch the Imagination, 47 Tamal Vista Blvd.


Tuesday

10.00 – 10.30 am - ‘Baby Bounce’ Story time at Novato Library, 1720 Novato Blvd

10.00 – 11.30 am - ‘Jumping Jacks’ at the San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street, San Rafael

10.00 – 11.30 am - ‘Drop in Play’ at The Parent’s Place, 600 Fifth Ave, San Rafael

10.15 - 10.45 am - 'Music Circle', at The Parents Center, Heller's Store, 514 4th Street, San Rafael

11.00 - 11.30 am – ‘Book Club Story Time’ at ‘Pottery Barns Kids’ store, Corte Madera Village

4.00 – 8.00 pm - Farmer’s market, Grant Avenue, Novato


Wednesday

9.30 - 12.00 pm - 'Power Play' at Cal Star Gym is back! Digital Drive, Ignacio

10.15 – 10.45 am - ‘Music Circle’ at The Parents Center, Heller’s store, 514 4th St, San Rafael

10.30 – 10.50 am – ‘Story Time with Miss Kitty', Civic Center Library

10.30 - 11.30 am - Drop in Play, MLK Gym, 610 Colma Street, Sausalito

11.00 - 11.30 am – Story Time at Giggle Store, Corte Madera Village

3.00 – 5.00 pm – Crawlers Camp (up to 23 months) at Stretch the Imagination, Corte Madera

3.00 - 3.30 pm - New Music Circle for 2 - 3 year olds, The Parents Center, Heller's Store, 514 4th Street, San Rafael

4.00 – 8.00 pm - Farmer’s Market, Bolinas Park, Bolinas Road, Fairfax


Thursday

8.00 – 1.00 pm – Farmers Market, The Civic Center (Puppet Show and balloon lady by Jumpy Houses)

9.30 - 12.00 pm - 'Power Play' at Cal Star Gym, Digital Drive, Ignacio, Novato

9.30 – 10.30 am – ‘Jumping Jacks’, San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street, San Rafael

10.30 – 11.00 am – Story Time at San Rafael Library, 618 B Street, San Rafael

11.00 - 11.30 am - Story Time at Barnes & Noble, 313 Corte Madera Center

3.30 - 4.00 pm - 'Stories with Phil Sheridan', Sausalito Library, 420 Litho Street

3.00 – 7.00 pm – Farmers Market, Marin Art & Garden Center, 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross

6.00 – 9.00 pm - Farmers Market, 4th St, between Lincoln and B St, San Rafael


Friday

10.30 - 11.30 am - Story Time with Sarah Bonnett, San Rafael Library, 618 B Street, San Rafael (until Oct 1st)

10.30 - 11.30 am - Tot's Club, City Hall Parks & Recreation, 420 Litho Street, Exercise Room, Sausalito

9.00 – 2.00 pm – Farmers Market, Alto Shopping Center, Mill Valley

9.00 am – 2.00 pm – Farmers Market, Bank of America parking lot, Downtown Sausalito

September 1st: Weekend Events, Playdate Idea, Restaurant of the Week & Weekly Calendar of Events

It's Labor Day Weekend and it is going to be another hot one! This weekend events include art and music festivals with 80's band 'The Bangles' headlining. This week's Play Date idea is a great family friendly beach in Sausalito that has a wonderful French Bistro just a few sandy steps away which features as the 'Restaurant of the Week'. There is some new activities in the Weekly Calendar, such as, 'Power Play' is back at Cal Star Gym in Novato and new Music Circle classes are added at The Parents Center in San Rafael. Have fun!

Friday August 3rd

'Friday Summer Music Series' in Pacheco Plaza, Novato, from 6.30 pm, free entry
A popular weekly outdoor concert featuring a mix of jazz, latin, folk, contemporary & blues by 'The Dan Goldfus Project'. You can bring your own food, grab a coffee and dessert from LaCoppa or enjoy it by dining Al fresco at the new Boca Pizzeria & Wine bar's patio (my favorite restaurant at the moment).

'Friday Night Fusion', The Village Corte Madera, 1618 Redwood Highway, from 5.30 - 7.30 pm, $15
Sample wines from 'Sonoma County Vintners' and cheese tasting while enjoying the concert. Limited seating is provided.

Saturday 28th

Farmer's Market, Marinwood Plaza, from 9.00 am - 2.00 pm

'Saturday Morning Kid's Club', Pacheco Plaza, Novato, from 10.00 am - 11.30 am

Sausalito Arts Festival, Marinship Park, Marinship Way, Sausalito, on Sat, Sun & Mon from 10.00 am - 6.00 pm, $15 adults
Step back in time by walking like an Egyptian to the live music stage to see 80's female group 'The Bangles' performing their hits 'Manic Monday and 'Eternal Flame' (Sat at 4.30 pm), Mavis Staples and Jefferson Starship also playing. The kid's favorite musician Tim Cain also performing. Enjoy food and drink as you view the 20,000 works of fine art being showcased over the three day festival.

Sunday August 5th

'Homestead' Festival, Homestead Valley Community Center, 315 Montford Avenue, Mill Valley from 11.00 am - 5.30 pm
Free music at an intimate festival setting that includes the Jazz Mavericks, The Nigerian Brothers, 'Til Dawn and Vinyl. Cajun food and cool drinks available.


Playdate Idea

As the fog finally lifts over Sausalito we can hit our favorite beach again! Schoonmaker Beach in Sausalito, also know as Kayak Beach, is located just off Liberty Ship Way, south of Marina. There is a few parking lots and shoreline access to the beach. It is a more accessible alternative to Stinson Beach, and in my opinion more family friendly. It is a small manageable size (2.3 acre of sandy beach), sheltered from the wind and surf so ideal for paddling in the calm water of the bay. It is quieter in the mornings so great for hanging out, building sandcastles and enjoying a picnic. Just a few steps away is the French bistro Le Garage (see restaurant of the week) which is also a great place for lunch during the week or weekend brunch.

Restaurant of the Week

Le Garage, 85 Liberty Ship Way, Suite 109

The French Bistro overlooking the harbor opened a couple of years ago and offers wonderful French cuisine. Our family enjoys their weekend brunch menu that includes French classics like Croque Monsieur or Madame, Broiche French Toast with berry compote (which my son loves) or the mouthwatering soft boiled egg with black truffle butter mouillettes served with Serrano ham, mushrooms and roasted potatoes.

They offer an afternoon and dinner menu which includes Mussels, Prime Beef Tenderloin with Bearnaise sauce and Duck Confit with grilled stonefruits. Of course I always take a particular interest in the desserts and they do not disappoint; splendid Tarte Tatin, Baileys & Espresso Creme Brulee and Fondant au Chocolate with Grand Marnier Creme Anglaise.

The service is polite and the setting is idyllic, its the perfect place to soak up the sun as you listen to nice music and watch the boats go by. 


A Weekly Calendar of Toddler Friendly Activities around Marin


Monday

10.30 – 11.15 am – ‘Music Together of Marin’, The Parent’s Place, 600 Fifth Ave, San Rafael

3.00 – 5.00 pm – Crawlers Camp (up to 23 months) at Stretch the Imagination, 47 Tamal Vista Blvd.


Tuesday
10.00 – 10.30 am - ‘Baby Bounce’ Story time at Novato Library, 1720 Novato Blvd

10.00 – 11.30 am - ‘Jumping Jacks’ at the San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street, San Rafael

10.00 – 11.30 am - ‘Drop in Play’ at The Parent’s Place, 600 Fifth Ave, San Rafael

10.15 - 10.45 am - 'Music Circle', at The Parents Center, Heller's Store, 514 4th Street, San Rafael

11.00 - 11.30 am – ‘Book Club Story Time’ at ‘Pottery Barns Kids’ store, Corte Madera Village

4.00 – 8.00 pm - Farmer’s market, Grant Avenue, Novato


Wednesday

9.30 - 12.00 pm - 'Power Play' at Cal Star Gym is back! Digital Drive, Ignacio

10.15 – 10.45 am - ‘Music Circle’ at The Parents Center, Heller’s store, 514 4th St, San Rafael

10.30 – 10.50 am – ‘Story Time with Miss Kitty', Civic Center Library

11.00 - 11.30 am – Story Time at Giggle Store, Corte Madera Village

3.00 – 5.00 pm – Crawlers Camp (up to 23 months) at Stretch the Imagination, Corte Madera

3.00 - 3.30 pm - New Music Circle for 2 - 3 year olds, The Parents Center, Heller's Store, 514 4th Street, San Rafael



4.00 – 8.00 pm - Farmer’s Market, Bolinas Park, Bolinas Road, Fairfax


Thursday

8.00 – 1.00 pm – Farmers Market, The Civic Center (Puppet Show and balloon lady by Jumpy Houses)

9.30 - 12.00 pm - 'Power Play' at Cal Star Gym is back! Digital Drive, Ignacio

9.30 – 10.30 am – ‘Jumping Jacks’, San Rafael Community Center, 618 B Street, San Rafael

10.30 – 11.00 am – Story Time at San Rafael Library, 618 B Street, San Rafael

11.00 - 11.30 am - Story Time at Barnes & Noble, 313 Corte Madera Center

3.30 - 4.00 pm - 'Stories with Phil Sheridan', Sausalito Library, 420 Litho Street

3.00 – 7.00 pm – Farmers Market, Marin Art & Garden Center, 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross

6.00 – 9.00 pm - Farmers Market, 4th St, between Lincoln and B St, San Rafael


Friday

10.30 - 11.30 am - Story Time with Sarah Bonnett, San Rafael Library,618 B Street, San Rafael(until Oct 1st)

9.00 – 2.00 pm – Farmers Market, Alto Shopping Center, Mill Valley

9.00 am – 2.00 pm – Farmers Market, Bank of America parking lot, Downtown Sausalito

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