by guest blogger  Kristin Quinn, Author of “Misadventures in Mommyhood: The Truth & Nothing But The Truth (so PLEASE help me God!).”  Kristin’s daughter, “Little Miss P” is 16 months old.  Read more about their adventures at www.misadventuresinmommyhood.com

You’ve just picked your head up from playing Horsey and realized you can’t see your hardwood floor underneath the blocks, pots, pans, and puzzle pieces.  Your arms start to shake from the 20 rounds of itsy bitsy spider when the walls start to cave in.  Sounds like it’s time to strap your toddler in the stroller and get out.  There are so many wonderful things to do with kids in Boston, many of which are unknown because mothers are too busy to put on deodorant let alone truck kids around the city to find entertainment.

Here are some of my favorite little city gems to cure toddler condo-itis:

The Museum of Science Infant Room & Butterfly Garden
1 Museum Of Science Driveway Boston, Next to NorthPoint

The Infant Room features lots of little tunnels to climb in and out of as well as different discovery stations for little ones. There is a huge stuffed bear that Little Miss P could play with and jump on forever and a water station at the perfect level to play pretend boats.  Make sure to grab the conveniently placed smock behind the water table.  The Butterfly Garden is extra but it’s worth it.  It’s a small room with 100’s of butterflies flying all around.  One may even land on your toddler’s nose if you’re lucky. Bonus: the flowers and fish make for excellent toddler conversation.

NorthPoint Water Park & Playground
I LOVE this playground nestled in between Cambridge and Charlestown. It’s truly an oasis in the city for kids.

Charlestown Yoga Family Yoga Classes
191 Main Street, Charlestown
Sundays starting September  16th 4-5pm
Sundays around 4pm seem to be the “witching hour” at our house.  Check out Family Yoga at the studio for an hour of fun with your child (you can even bring Hubby). For mobile children and their caretakers (mom, dad, grandparents, you name it).  Participate with your kids as they turn into favorite animals and objects: Cat, Cow, Dolphin, Tree, Mountain, Triangle, etc. Learn the meaning of Sanskrit words like “OM” and “Namaste”, create Mala Art and learn poses to do together at home! The whole family is invited to this fun and playful one hour class with musician and certified kids yoga teacher, Colleen Kleya of BlissKids Yoga. Purchase online in advance or at the studio.  $16/adult, $8/kid.  No yoga experience necessary.

Children’s Museum of Boston
308 Congress Street, Boston
No duh.  But check out the included-with-admission-price “Music & Movement” class put on by the folks of Baby Wiggles on Wednesdays from 11-11:45am on the second floor.

Babycakes of Charlestown – New!
330 Main Street, Charlestown
Catering to the many young families of Charlestown and its surrounding communities, BabyCakes of Charlestown offers classes for babies, toddlers, preschoolers and young children to help them reach developmental milestones. New mom and dad support groups and classes are also offered as are play group activities and birthday parties.

The Rose Kennedy Greenway: Water Sprinklers & Carousel Rides
If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.
Two months ago we tried putting Little Miss P on a carousel horse but she screamed bloody murder. When we tried again a couple of weeks ago, she was skeptical at best, holding on for dear life:
Seriously, Mom?  

But once the carousel made a full circle, she was loving life, holding on with only hand and blowing kisses to adoring fans with the other.

Granary Tavern
170 Milk  Street, Boston
Not exactly a place for kids, granted, but definitely kid-friendly.  The owners must be parents.  Instead of handing out crayons to kids (which inevitably get dipped in butter and eaten) they give out Etch-A-Sketches.  Brilliant.  Because you can’t easily eat an Etch-A-Sketch and it keeps them entertained for much longer than crayons and paper.   Plus they actually have real snack food for kids.  Forgo the fried chicken fingers and nasty hot dogs for veggies and pretzels with hummus or a fruit bowl at this new establishment across from the Greenway.

The New England Aquarium Curious George Discovery Corner
1 Central Wharf, Boston *See Condo Concierge for discounts*
Insider Tip: Go at 9am and you’ll own the place.
The New England Aquarium has a small alcove room – dubbed the Curious George Discovery Corner – where young children can go to play, get a private view of the Aquarium’s giant ocean tank, and learn more about the wonders of the sea from the Aquarium staff. On Friday mornings from 10am to noon the Aquarium offers activities especially for families with young children.

Legal Seafood Harborside
270 Northern Avenue, Boston
On weekends from 11am -1pm, kids under 12 are invited to try “catch and release” fishing in their lobby trout pond.  Grab an afternoon drink at the bar and maybe pop in an oyster or two while your child watches this free-for-all event.

Worth the hike:

Mama and Me
284 Amory St, Jamaica Plain
Classes designed for parents to engage in their child’s learning experience, drop-off based classes to help children gain autonomy, and open playtime where families can play together.

Franklin Park Zoo
One Franklin Park Road, Boston
Endless animal entertainment

Inside Playground
100 Parker Street, Watertown
A kid’s dream

Last but not least, check out THE PINK LIST
http://thepink-list.com
The best boutiques and services around Boston (many of which are on this list)… At up to 30% off.  Join for only $6.25 a month.
Plus, they just added Bella Sante to their list of merchants and I don’t know about you but this Horsey sure could use a massage.

On September 9th, make sure to check out the free Positive Parenting Talk! See the flyer:  Stretch What Matters

Or for more info go to www.Charlestownyoga.com

For normal yoga packages, don’t forget about the NorthPoint resident special!

Join in on the conversation and be part of our NorthPoint Social community:

www.facebook.com/northpointcondos

www.twitter.com/northpointcondo

www.pinterest.com/northpointcondo

The NorthPoint development has been in the press recently as it seems the developers are getting closer to revealing big news.  We know the new development team consisting of The HYM Investment Group, Canyon-Johnson Urban Funds, Atlas Capital and PanAm Railways has been working hard (with the community and quietly out of the press) to keep the project moving forward.  We are excited of the new prospect and can’t wait for more information!

According to this Boston Globe article, the new apartment tower is still slated for a late 2012/ Early 2013 groundbreaking.

Read more about the apartment tower and future plans at Boston.com

According to this article from The Boston Business Journal titled “Riding Kendall’s Coattails” NorthPoint has been a hot contender for tenants looking to build new Headquarters in East Cambridge.

“Northpoint is a finalist for two build-to-suit tenants, and there will be a decision by summer’s end. “We need a big deal to kick off a building,” Flaherty conceded. “But the project is definitely now on everybody’s radar screen, and if they’re a good-sized requirement, they’re going to look at Northpoint.””

An apartment tower and even one new company building will really kick-off the site.  Include new neighborhood additions such as the NorthPoint pedestrian / bike bridge and Skate Park (2013 completion date) and there are a lot of reasons to be excited about our neighborhood!

Did you know that the NorthPoint neighborhood covers 45 acres in 3 different cities?  Cambridge, Somerville and Boston (Charlestown).  With the highway barriers, we sometimes forget that Charlestown is not only close-by, but actually on the NorthPoint development site! The new pedestrian and cyclist access via the North Bank Bridge will help to strengthen the NorthPoint – Charlestown connection.  Also, the Gilmore Bridge gives direct access for cars and pedestrians to the heart of Main Street in Charlestown within 5 – 10 minutes.

One of our favorite stops (and closest) is Charlestown Yoga on Main Street.  This studio is the closest to NorthPoint and we are happy to have such a wonderful neighbor!  The studio has a welcoming environment with friendly instructors.

****Special for NorthPoint Residents****

10% off 5, 10 and 20 class cards. 

Order online (use drop down menu to search for “NORTHPOINT CONDO DISCOUNT”) or stop in the studio.  Bring proof of residence for either purchase option.

The studio has classes for every level.  They also increased their offerings, adding new classes like baby yoga and more hot yoga classes.  We are excited for Yoga on the deck, held on Thursdays at 6:15pm throughout the summer.

To learn more about Charlestown Yoga see their site:  CharlestownYoga.com

“Charlestown Yoga offers something for everyone, new students to advanced. We feature a warm and inviting space in addition to a finished outdoor area for classes. Our teachers have a rich background from many different yoga traditions giving our students ample opportunity to grow and deepen their practice. Our main classes include Vinyasa Flow, Power, Hot, Restorative, and Beginners, but look for special classes, workshops and trunk show events throughout the year.”

Please share photos of the bridge and opening ceremony on our Facebook or Pinterest page!

Facebook Page  www.facebook.com/northpointcondos

Pinterest Page www.pinterest.com/northpointcondo

We are excited for the newest connection from the NorthPoint neighborhood to Charlestown!  The cool bridge you’ve seen constructed over the commuter rail lines from North Point Park, is called the North Bank Bridge.  The construction looks to be near completion and the bridge should be opening soon. 

North Bank Bridge from North Point Park

The North Bank Bridge will connect Mass DCR’s 8.5 acre North Point Park (and our wonderful NorthPoint neighborhood) to Charlestown’s Paul Revere Park for pedestrians and cyclists.  This bridge is an important continuation of the Charles River paths, connecting many neighborhoods of Boston.

You can read more about the North Bank Bridge planning and construction at Bridge Design & Engineering Report: “Twist & Turn”, courtesy of The Charles River Conservancy

View from North Bank Bridge, Photo Courtesy of Mark Jaquith, CCTV

If you haven’t been to North Point Park yet make sure you check it out!  The park is beautifully designed with large areas for sports, smaller areas to picnic or relax in the sun, a dock, fountains, and a very fun children’s playground all on the quiet banks of the Charles River.

NorthPoint neighborhood, view from Boston

The North Bank Bridge is also near the future sight of the Charles River Conservancy’s skate park, to open in 2013.  We will keep you updated on the progress and you can read more information here:  Charles River Conservancy Skate Park

A great opportunity to visit the park or spend more time and meet your neighbors will be happening at the end of July.  Come out for REI’s Summer Camping Festival on July 28th from 10am – 4pm.  The event will have something for everyone in the family!

A lot of exciting things happening in the NorthPoint neighborhood this summer!  Hope to see you all out!  Make sure to post picture to our Facebook or Pinterest pages!

Facebook Page  www.facebook.com/northpointcondos

Pinterest Page www.pinterest.com/northpointcondo

Take advantage of this great weather and take the short trip to deCordova this weekend!  “Get cultured” while getting sun! This unique place mixes nature, large sculptures, and art into an amazing experience for all.

deCordova Museum

After paying the $14 admission fee feel free to wander the deCordova campus, which sits on 35 acres.  Make sure to see all the sculptures, before finding a place to picnic or just sit and reflect.  The grounds are beautiful and peaceful, making everyone want to take some time out and enjoy the space.

"Skirts and Pants (after Duchamp)", Ilan Averbuch

After spending time in the park, make sure to visit the museum, which houses modern and contemporary art.  Both the sculpture park and the museum have permanent collections and new exhibits that always make the trip worthwhile.

"Two Big Black Hearts", Jime Dine

See the website www.decordova.org for more information on both the permanent collections and current/upcoming exhibits.  See the event calendar for guided sculpture park tours, installation and talks with the artists, play in the park for children and families, yoga in the park and many other great events!

"Reflex", Michael Hansel

10 Questions You NEED to Ask Before Before Hiring a Mover

The entire moving process is long, complicated, and stressful, so the last thing you want to worry about is hiring an unqualified, unprofessional moving company to move you and your family to your new home. This is why Gentle Giant Moving Company has compiled a list of 10 Questions you NEED to ask while you are researching moving companies to help with your transition into NorthPoint.  These questions will allow you to easily identify legit moving companies over other companies that cut several dangerous corners to keep their prices low.

To help, we have supplied Gentle Giant’s answers to each question.

1.) How do you select your employees? Gentle Giant has an intensive interview process, complete with a full background check and a physical endurance test to make sure the candidate will make a successful Giant.

2.) Do you provide benefits for the movers? Gentle Giant provides health and dental insurance, 401k, short and long term disability, as well as additional Health and Wellness benefits, including compensated gym membership.

3.) How many moves do you complete a year? Across our national company, Gentle Giant completes over 13,000 moves every year. This number has continued to rise as we expand across the country and work closely with Realtors and Professional Organizers in the regions we work in.

4.) If there is a problem during the move, who will be handling it? Which department, individual, or a third party? The Crew Chief’s Gentle Giant places in charge of moves are experienced, expert movers that have received extensive training. This can often times can lead to the proper handling of claims right on the spot as they happen. However, if a problem needs further attention, Gentle Giant has a highly trained, in-house Quality Control Department that professionally and diligently handles every type of claim that comes in. In most cases, claims can be handled on the phone or in person by a handy Quality Control Field Representative, who can fix, repair, or replace almost anything. If the Field Representative is unable to fix the problem, Gentle Giant will enlist an appropriate, trusted outside contractor to handle it properly.

5.) What type of estimates do you offer? We offer hourly estimates and “not to exceed” estimates for local moves.  Binding estimates are offered for interstate moves.

6.)  Do you take credit cards? Yes, as well as checks and cash.

7.) Is your moving company a member of the American Moving and Storage Association, The Better Business Bureau, or are you listed as a Pro Mover? Not only is Gentle Giant a part of the AMSA, but we were recognized by them as the Independent Mover of the Year in 2009. In all of Gentle Giant’s regions, we are members of the Better Business Bureau and the Chamber of Commerce.

8.) Does your company offer secure storage? In all of Gentle Giant’s regions, we offer affordable, secure, and fully insured storage options. Gentle Giant’s storage comes with a detailed inventory list for easy access to specific items in storage. Climate controlled storage is also available in most regions.

9.) Do you offer insurance for moving? Gentle Giant offers Full Replacement Value Insurance, Actual Value Replacement Insurance, and a Basic Liability Insurance. Insurance options are carefully explained to each customer during the booking process, and can be changed on the day of the move with the job’s Crew Chief.

10.) What makes you different from all the other movers? Gentle Giant has been a leader in the moving industry because of our intense focus on customer service, the athleticism of the crews we send out on jobs, and our 100% Money Back Guarantee. Unheard of in the industry, this Guarantee states that Gentle Giant customers are entitled to a 100% money back satisfaction guarantee for each member of their moving crew: packer, driver, local mover, or long distance mover.

We hope that this has been helpful, and if you have any additional questions about Gentle Giant in Massachusetts, please call us at 1-800-442-6863 or Request an Estimate Online.

Photo Courtesy of Gentle Giant

photo courtesy of ECBA

3rd Annual East Cambridge Clean Up Day this Saturday, May 5th

Join the East Cambridge Business Association for their annual clean-up of Cambridge Street.  They need help picking up litter and preparing tree wells for mulch.  Help make our neighborhood look great.  More information can be found on their blog: http://www.eastcambridgeba.blogspot.com/

NorthPoint Common

I want to give a quick “plug” to our amazing landscapers, Emanouil Brothers, Inc. Thanks to their skills and attention to detail our NorthPoint Common looks amazing.  Since we do not need to do a NorthPoint clean-up, let’s get together and focus on helping around our East Cambridge neighborhood!

Give more than a day

Want to help out in the neighborhood more?  Volunteer your time for one of The East End House’s great community programs.  They have a wide range of volunteer activities and can use your skill set!  The East End House is a great asset to the East Cambridge Community and we hope you will consider supporting them!

Have other volunteer ideas for us?  We would love to hear what our residents are doing in the community!

Just in time for Spring cleaning!  Out with drab decor and in with the new!  Spruce up your condo with this special from Cambridge Art & Frame.  Pick out some new frame colors to liven up your walls or hang up those prints you’ve been holding onto and transform your walls!

**Special 15 % off**

NorthPoint residents receive an exclusive offer until June 30th for 15% off custom picture framing.  Just give your name and condo number for the discount.

(Cannot be combined with other discounts or coupons)

Cambridge Art & Frame Services:

• Photo Restoration
• High-end photo / art printing
• Memorabilia & collectable framing
• Three dimensional & unusual item framing
• Mirror cutting & framing

See the “Maps & Prints” section of the website for additional services and offers.  Find artwork (from McGaw Graphics) or maps (from Historic Map Works) and they will be sent to and framed at Cambridge Art & Frame.  With map and print order, discount framing is available – call for more information.

Cambridge Art & Frame is an easy 3 minute walk from NorthPoint.  The shop is located at 101 First Street, across from the CambridgeSide Galleria.  If you drive, call ahead and they will have a parking space for you!  If your artwork is oversize and too cumbersome to carry over, call ahead to see if free pick-up/ delivery is available.

See Cambridge Art & Frame’s website or Facebook page:

CambridgeArtandFrame.com