GIVEAWAY! Zoe Organics + Bamboobies = FREE stuff

SO many Babies right now! I see ya - & if you're having one soon like me, this GIVEAWAY is just for you! Zoe Organics & Bamboobies to the rescue. All organic, made-in-the-USA goodies for you and your new baby. Keep it for yourself or re-gift it to your bestie. Here's what we're giving ya:

Five organic baby products plus an organic velour washcloths in a natural fiber gift box.
The perfect gift for any mama-to-be or new baby!
This organic baby gift box contains:
-Organic Baby Bath Tea (2 / .75 oz tea bags)
-Gentle Hair & Body Wash (5.25 oz)
-Organic Baby Massage Oil (2.5 oz)
-Organic Diaper Balm (2 oz)
-Organic Baby Balm (.6 oz)
-Organic Velour Washcloth (natural color)
These products come nestled in a natural fiber gift box with matching ribbon. {$70 value}

All this + more! And who doesn't love BOOBS?!? We're also giving away 2 pairs of Bamboobies organic bamboo nursing pads. They're not just heart-shaped cuz they're cute, they actually fit better that way. Not to mention the super-soft bamboo is like a "cashmere sweater for your boobs".

*This Contest is CLOSED*

OK! Want in? Here's how: Multiple ways to enter & each entry counts...

#1 - "Like" the Monkey Bars Facebook page & leave a comment on this post showing you've done so

#2 - Follow Monkey Bars on Twitter & leave a comment on this post showing you've done so

#3 - "Like" & post on Zoe Organics FB wall saying how much you ♥ MBs {or them, to be fair} & comment on this post showing you've done so

#4 - "Like" & post on Bamboobies FB wall saying MBs sent you {and naturally, how much you love them} & leave a comment on this post showing you've done so...

#5 - AND last but not least, Share *this* post on your own Blog, Facebook, Twitter or other social media site and let us know you've done so {and remember, you can do 1 or all 5 - each one counts as a single entry so GET ON IT}.

ONE Grand Prize Winner {the Zoe O's + Bamboobies} will be chosen at random & there will be 3 runners-up who will receive their very own pair of Bamboobies to get them started. Winning comment action will be verified. UPDATE: Contest closes on April 15th

Happy Spring!!
Cheers,
~H
p.s. Contest open to US residents only - Sorry Canada! I learned my lesson last time :-/. Shipping sucks.

The Façade Project... A work in progress

... And an exercise in patience. Stay tuned for updates!!
More details on this coming SOON!
*Hint* I'm gonna need your input! {and that usually means - you guessed it - CONTEST}.
Attention creative types: get your thinking caps on. MBs needs a window slogan. Again, stay tuned

And we cannot forget -- BIG Ups to Veronica Hinkley Reck at Alameda based, Ignition Architecture, for this SWEET rendering. It's what's been keeping us going over the last year+.

Partner Profile: Crazy about Monkey Bars!

- by Heather Hamilton, Founder & CEO of Zoe Organics

Located on the Island of Alameda, in the San Francisco Bay Area, is an Eco-friendly boutique that not only sells the best products for the Eco-Conscious Parent, but also provides hip and eco-friendly alternatives for baby/toddler/big kid wear. Heather [Reed] Rider, also known as Mama Monkey, has never lost focus when it comes to selling the best products for parents who want to “Go Green” with their new baby. Heather does extensive research and tests all products that she sells, which goes along with her saying “I go crazy, so you don’t have to!” Monkey Bars also offers a gift registry that comes with your own personal shopper…Can it get any better than that?!

Heather is not only providing green goodies to this wonderful community, but she is making it her mission to provide parents and caretakers with the support that they need and deserve. Heather Co-Founded Alameda Parent Support just this past year. You can read more about this below.

Monkey Bars turned 3 this past December and Heather invited Zoe Organics to join in on the festivities. It was a great afternoon filled with Zoe Organics massages, drinks, snacks and also the debut of the super cute Luna Leggings! We had a great time! Thanks, Heather!



Here is a Q&A with Mama Monkey, Heather [Reed] Rider:
Q: Tell us a little about the concept of Monkey Bars. Was this a lifelong dream or something that arose after having your baby boy?
It was more of an accident, actually. I’ve managed successful retail business in the past, but always yearned for something that was my own. I have a background in the wellness industry and before giving birth to Kyle in 2005, I was running a spa & all-natural skincare shop. I had every intention of going further down this path, but after getting to know my son & growing with him, my focus changed a bit. I feel like Monkey Bars is the best of both of these worlds.

Q: You are a mother and run your own business. What advice would you give other women out there that are wondering if they can handle the challenges it can bring?
Well, I had NO idea what I was getting myself into, but it was all totally worth it! When I began, I had been divorced for just over a year, and my son & I were barely getting by. I started this with nothing but good credit (thankfully) and a giant leap of faith. Being a single mom brought its own challenges, but we got through it, and I ended up meeting my new husband who also helps me in the shop. Aside from challenges, being a mom and running a business also has its rewards. When school is closed, I can bring my son to the shop with me & since we’re expecting our 2nd child May 30th, I’m looking forward to bringing my nursling along too.

Q: We are truly impressed with the variety and quality of the products sold at Monkey Bars. What are a few of your guidelines for selling eco-friendly products at your store?
I’ll start off by saying that I don’t bring anything into the shop that I wouldn’t use myself – so my customers can rest assured that everything in here is either something I have used, or would use with my own kid. I exhaust myself with research as well as take loads of feedback from my customers & fellow mama friends. I like to tell new moms and dads that “I go crazy so you don’t have to”. That’s pretty much served everyone very well so far, however there are a few basic guidelines that I adhere to. First, we do our best to source locally (CA/Pac NW). When that’s not possible, we go for products that are US made. When we pull in lines from overseas, we only chose reputable vendors that have earth-friendly, fair, and responsible business models. For example, with the price of cotton skyrocketing globally, India is still able to produce quality, reasonably priced Organic apparel. Plus we love to support other small businesses, and when companies are starting out, they usually have to begin their manufacturing overseas.

Q: You have a new baby on the way! What are some of your must-haves for new parents?
This is a fun one… As most moms have learned, there’s a lot of crap out there that leaves us wondering why we have certain things lying around the house, let alone why we even registered for them in the first place. In the spirit of keeping it simple (this time ’round), I’m gonna go with 3 things:
1st – a Safe, Reliable, Easy to Operate + Easy on your Body stroller/car seat system. We’re going with the Orbit Stroller Travel System. It’s got a big price tag, but after having been through my share of snap-n-go systems with the first kid, this is the way to go. Not to mention that I’ll be saving money (and my back) in the long run.
2nd – a Good Carrier. Speaking of back-saving goodies, this is a biggie. I’m not a fan of slings because of the asymmetric way they force you to hold the baby. My pick is the BECO Baby Carrier. Infant to 45lbs all in one system. And it’s organic!
3rd – Good Boob Pads. Something reusable, comfortable, and healthy. My pick here is Bamboobies – eco-friendly, bamboo nursing pads.

Q: You are also the Co-Founder of Alameda Parent Support. Tell us a little about this and why it is important to you.
When Kyle was first born, I felt great and was excited to conquer the world, new baby in tow… And then it got lonely. And cold out. And going to the grocery store stopped becoming a good enough reason to leave the house every day. When Kyle was 5 weeks old, I began participating in the state-funded New Parent Support groups offered by Smart, Healthy Babies. These groups were a Godsend. I never struggled with PPD (thankfully), but I was REALLY excited to get out of the house for my weekly meetings with other new moms, some of which I still get together with 6+ years later. These groups provided an invaluable resource for the community, and when they lost their state funding in 2008, new parents were left with nothing. Alameda Parent Support was created to help fill this void. It is important to me because I think new families don’t realize how great it is to just sit around and chat with other people dealing with very similar life changes until they are in a group. Our groups are also facilitated by licensed professionals which makes us different from casual playgroups. In addition to one facilitated meeting per week, our 6 week sessions include an informal weekly meeting (sans facilitator at a location of the group’s choosing), and a meet-the-partner evening potluck.

Q: Zoe Organics recently took part in your Holiday Party/3rd Birthday Party. What are some highlights of the last 3 years?
We’ve won some awards both locally in Alameda as well as the Greater Bay Area, however I have to say a consistent highlight is meeting new moms & dads, and interacting with them on a regular basis. We were also just approved for a city-subsidized Facade grant, so MBs will be getting a facelift very soon! We’re constantly trying to improve our visibility so we can continue to provide great stuff for new parents, but getting the word out is the first step. We’re really excited about our new look. Stay tuned for photos!

Q: What do you hope for Monkey Bars in 2012?
Since we’re extremely focused on health and wellness issues here at MBs, we’re hoping to shift more of our focus to that arena in the New Year. I’ve done a soft-launch of a food blog, but that’s just the beginning. I definitely see many more workshops in our future as well. We love food & one of my big goals is passing this love of healthy food on to the little ones. Some people are scared of the work that comes with switching over to a healthy, non-processed-food diet. I want to help alleviate some of that fear and make it simple for parents to make nutritious meals for their kids. We hope to get all of that accomplished this year! We’ll be busy…

Thank you Heather! We love your heart and vision and can’t wait see where your passion takes you and Monkey Bars!
Click here for Full Article

Weantailer Spotlight: Monkey Bars

- by Melissa Gunning, Founder of WeanGreen

Since being in the ‘biz we have noticed what a huge difference a little spunk makes. Monkey Bars is our #1 example of this little business tip. Wicked owner + funky business = Monkey Bars in Alameda California!

Here is our Q&A with Heather, the owner of Monkey Bars:

1. What is your favorite kitchen accessory (besides Wean Green)?
Hands down, I’m going with The Immersion Blender. I use mine all the time. Sauces, veggie purees, soups, you name it. Great for baby food too, and because we’ll be revisiting that stage in less than a year now, I’m keeping it handy for my homemade baby food (which then gets promptly popped into some wean cubes – naturally)

2. What motivates you to get out of bed in the morning?
Well lately, it’s been my uncontrollable urge to pee, but before this pregnancy I’d have to say it’s the thought that I truly love what I do, and no matter what I look like each morning (or if I’ve even showered) I get to go to “work” and help people all day. This is really a tough one though, because we all have our crap days & if I didn’t have to pee or I wasn’t starving for breakfast, getting going in the morning can suck! My 6-y-o has become very adept at making his own breakfast, thus easing the pre school craziness. He knows how to use a toaster oven, and he’s got his own set of kid-friendly butter knives. That dude makes a mean PB&J.

3. If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you like to do instead?
Ironically, this is in the works. I love food. Eating it, cooking it, sharing it with friends and family. Cooking honestly relieves my stress at the end of the day. I’ve launched (well almost launched) my long awaited food blog! If I had my way though, I’d have a cooking show. It would be a cross between Anthony Bourdain’s “No Reservations” & Kathy Griffin’s “My Life on the D List”… Stay tuned.

4. What is your favorite Wean Green size and why?
I’m personally a pretty big fan of the Lunch Cubes. I think the first question I asked Melissa when we met was “ooo! do they come bigger?”… Again, I prefer these for grown-up/bigger kid stuff. When it comes to making baby food however, the 4 pack of cubes is the way to go. I’ve also managed to use these guys for my daily stashes of salad dressing & my at-work stash of prenatal vitamins.

5. Why do you sell glass?
I’ve been a fan of glass since I can remember. I was raised in the microwave era, and even as a 7-y-o latchkey child, I knew something was wrong with putting plastic in the microwave. Now with glass, I rarely worry about temperature changes or staining. This is especially awesome for someone who hates doing dishes. Glass is so easy to clean! Plus, there’s the whole safety bit – with all of the unknowns that still surrounding plastic, I feel that in most cases, it’s better just to go glass. As I mentioned, the biggest issue with plastic is heating it, whereas glass can be stored in the fridge, heated, and served all in the same dish. I just makes mama’s life easier.

6. What other products do you sell that compliment Wean Green?
We sell Lifefactory glass baby & grown-up bottles. I feel like these two lines are very complementary. Yes, your bag gets a little heavier, but everything does seem to taste better. The great thing about both lines is that they grow with your needs. For example, what I said earlier about the Cubes – use them for making baby food, then when you’ve passed that stage, put your vitamins in them. Lifefactory baby bottles have nipples, sippy caps and solid caps making it very easy for the bottles to stay with your child long term, thus making them a great value.
Click here for Full Article

Mama Monkey's turning 30! {so we're outta here...}

Yes. It's true. I've been avoiding it like the bird flu, but it's finally happening. My birthday... That's right, y'all! I'm turning 30 on January 5th. Lucky for me, this year has been a good one, so I cannot complain. For those of you that have stayed sober through the Holidays for one reason or another, I salute you. This is hard work!

I don't know about you, but *this* pregnant girl eats Sushi, drinks coffee, goes in the hot tub, and likes her eggs over-easy. However, B-Day tequila shots are going too far - even for me. To help make the most of my delicate condition, Papa Monkey has planned a super-secret-birthday-family-getaway commencing next week. We'll be operating on the following schedule for the week of January 1st:

Sunday 1/1/12: CLOSED
Monday 1/2/12: CLOSED
Tuesday 1/3/12: CLOSED
Wednesday 1/4/12: CLOSED
Thursday 1/5/12: OPEN 12-4p

{Jamela will be working & it's her BDay too, so give her a smack for me}

Friday 1/6/12: OPEN 12-5p
Saturday 1/7/12: OPEN 12-6p
Sunday 1/8/12: OPEN 12-5p
Monday 1/9/12 CLOSED

Wish me luck, guys! I hate leaving y'all, but I've been promised a good time & can't pass that up . See you again in 2012!!

Cheers,
~Heather

MBs is turning 3!... Thanks to you :-)

& We couldn't have done it without your support...

Well, it's been a crazy and exciting year folks. If you've been following the Mama Monkey chronicles, then you're aware of what I'm talking about... For those of you who have better things to do than follow each and every one of my Facebook updates, here's a quick recap:
1.) I got married to a wonderful new husband, Ethan (some of you may have met him. He's a great helper)
2.) I co-founded & launched, Alameda Parent Support, an organization created to take the place of the New Parent Support groups offered by Smart Healthy Babies (who lost their state funding in 2008)
3.) The new husband and I are expecting another mini-monkey on May 30th (the nausea + fatigue + general malaise are killing me)
4.) Kyle (mini-monkey #1) started Kindergarten AND, FINALLY...
5.) At long last, Monkey Bars received city approval to move forward with our façade plans... Stay tuned for THAT!

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank all of you - some I see on a regular basis, and some I haven't seen since last year's birthday party - for your continued support of me, my family, and my business. We turned 3-years-old this December! It ain't been easy, but without my loyal fan base (that's you ), we wouldn't be here. And what better excuse for a party?!?

Join us Sunday, December 18th, 2011
from 3-6pm @ Monkey Bars
to celebrate our 3rd Birthday...

Lots of FREE stuff + beverages + snacks. Free chair massages from 4-6pm, plus a Raffle of new mama-to-be goodies from Zoe Organics. Simply bring a new or gently used toy to donate & you're entered to win. We'll also be introducing & showcasing Luna Leggings: Bright, Fresh, & Unique Leggings for girls. They're a brand new company that's getting ready to launch so YOU get a sneak peek! These are seriously awesome. You'll want a pair in your size.
Hope to see you Sunday!!

Happy Holidays to you and your Monkeys! Have an excellent Christmas, Hanukkah, & New Year...

Cheers!
~Heather

MBs Holiday Gift Guide 2011!! {that's right... this one's just for you}

Let's be honest. Christmas/Hanukkah shopping is irritating at best. Unless you're a pro-shopper from way back, you love your family, but you can't stand the holiday crowds, crazies, etc {psst... If you finished your shopping in October, paid everything off, & already have it all wrapped, then this post probably isn't for you}. If you're like me, then likely you've waited until now to even start thinking about it.
Don't worry guys - I'm here to rescue you! My Top 10 pics for kiddo gifts (plus a *bonus* to open on Christmas Eve ):

10. DYO Yo-Yo, DYO Kaleidoscope & "Good Things for Boys (and Girls)" from Seedling, NZ [starting at $18]


Yo-Yo makes a great stocking stuffer for the 4/5+ crowd & The "Good Things" Kits are equally entertaining for the creative 6+ year-old. Knitting supplies for Girls & Dominos for Boys. If your son likes to play with knitting needles (like mine does), then the Girl set is for you. NEW this year: The DYO Kaleidoscope kit. Stop It... I want one.



9. Push & Pull Wooden Animals (+ Dinos) from Plan Toys [starting at $22]

NEW this year: the Push-Along Pterodactyl {who knew that was spelled with a 'P'?} & the Push-Along Stegosaurus. Rad. Box says 19m+, but I say if they can walk, they can push. Go for it. The Pull-Along Alligator is in the running for World's Most Annoying toy, especially if you have hardwood floors. The big shocker here is that it's their favorite. Pick up one of these too. They'll love you forever, but don't say I didn't warn ya. Grab a cocktail, and let your new lil walker go wild!





8. Pirate 'n Bird 'n Smart Kid pillow stuff from See Stuf [starting at $14]

NEW this year: ALL of it! I first got excited about these due to their Pirate nature, however upon further investigation, they're also distributed by our Besties at Wry Baby. Some are designed to help baby's developing brain with the cunning use of contrasting colors and shapes, and some are just plain Pirate... Or bird. Decorate a nursery or give one to your Kindergartner who thinks he's too cool for stuffed animals, but still cries because monsters live under his bed. Newborn to grown-up, who doesn't need a sweet bookend looking pillow Pirate?? Some even jingle!





7. Stencils, Pencils, & Craft Kits from Kimmel Kids [starting at $16]

NEW this year: The entire line of big-kid-eco-awesome-creative goodies! I'm really excited about this collection based on the research I've done. Although I cannot give you a personal testimonial at this time {the shipment arrived today - hooray!}, I can say that I'm preeeetty sure these are gonna be a BIG hit. Karen Kimmel, founder of Kimmel Kids, encourages little monsters to "Make Your Mark". No, not on your walls and floors, but with their diverse array of craft supplies. Get coloring.




6. The Pocket Pouch 8 piece wooden block set from Tegu [$32]

So if you've already bought one of these, then you know that they are one of my personal favorites. Plane rides, restaurants, you name it. The sample set I received kept 4-y-o KR busy for one whole HOUR back in 2010. He still hasn't tired of them, and neither have I. Perfect gift for the 3+ crowd as well as the grown-ups on your list. Why 3+? Well 'cause if your 1-y-o does, in fact, manage to swallow one, it will be rather uncomfortable for her... and while you may very well be proud of Sally for accomplishing such a feat, when that *second* one goes down, you gonna have some problems. Buy them for baby's 1st Christmas, but play with them amongst yourselves till Jr. turns 3. Sets come in three different colors, and a sweet felt travel pouch. What more do ya want?! Tints (mulit-colored) & Natural (pictured above) & NEW this year: "Jungle" - aka Natural with Green accents.


5. The Plasma Car -- from PlaSmart [$69.95]

Well, this guy doesn't really need an introduction... Holiday fun for the whole family. Weight limit is 220lbs {& yes, I'm serious}. Due to my delicate condition, the demos I've been giving have gotten a little weird, so feel free to come in and ride one before you buy it for your kid. NEW this year: not a whole lot, except they seem to be selling through faster than last year, so get on it. I don't want to have to sell you the Demo at closing time on Christmas Eve.




4. A Hoard of Creature Bags from MadPax [starting at $15.50]


The Mighty Bite. The Nibbler. The Half Pack. & The Full Pack. These bizarre and startling bags took me by surprise. They're amazingly cool and versatile. The tiny one is perfect for the tweener in your life that needs to stash her make-up, gum, cell phone, etc. Or maybe it's time to make your 2-y-o start carrying their own toys around for once {the 1/2 pack is perfect}.


3. The Bilibo [$30]

Sit in it. Spin in it. Walk on it. Put your hamster in it. Put in on your head. The Bilibo is perfect for ages 2-7. Not only will the children be entertained, the spinning action really helps develop that core body strength. Welcome side effect? Early bed time. The Bilibo is also an excellent water toy. It floats! Among other things... Red, blue, pink, green, yellow, orange.




2. Delicious, Local, & Organic Skincare goodies for Mama & Baby from Zoe Organics [starting at $12]


I simply cannot sing ZO's praises enough. They're phenomenal and their goods are good enough to eat. Zoe Organics was born out of a need for safer cosmetics and ingredients. Founder & CEO, Heather Hamilton, not only rocks because we share a name, but because as a child, she was just as sensitive as one Kyle Reed. Physically, not emotionally. Growing up with severe allergies has motivated Heather to create a truly unique product line where parents don't have to worry about what's being put on their child's skin. Plus it smells great even when your kid doesn't.



1. The FLIP & 3-in-1 Bike from Wishbone [$159 & $249 respectively]

NEW this year: The Wishbone FLIP. Brought to you by the same Kiwis that gave you the Wishbone 3-in-1 trike/balance bike {also returning this year}, comes probably most fun & versatile ride-on toy for 2011. Since its launch this summer, the FLIP has been getting the 1-5 crowd super excited. Pre-walkers can Rock out on the FLIP, and pro-walkers can Ride it. All over the place. Also brand new this season is the Limited Edition Apple-a-Day design for the 3-in-1 Bike. Limited Edition = very limited, FYI.







✶✶AND THE *BONUS* GIFT IS.....

The Eco-Kids Eco-Ornament Kit! Bust this bad boy out on Christmas Eve and put your little guy to WORK! Sip on mulled wine & egg nog while your toddler makes a mess & a masterpiece to hang on your tree. You'll get at least a half hour of quiet outta this one, so go for it & give that macaroni, construction paper, and glue a rest. Toxin-free everything from the family that brought you Eco-Dough, Eco-Paint & the Eco-Easter Egg kit. Go crazy & Have a happy holiday...





Well there ya have it. You're welcome... And best of all?? Everything is available HERE at Monkey Bars!! Happy Shopping & See you soon !
Cheers!
~Heather

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Silhouette Artist Event, October 15th

Seriously, watch the video...

Missed the last one? It's cool... Once again, Monkey Bars has your back. Have a Scorpio birthday coming up? Need an early Holiday gift? Want a silhouette of your favorite pet cat? Well you're in luck 'cause Karl's coming back *just* for you... So again, we invite you to bring your belly, your baby or your puppy to MBs on the 15th.

Call for questions and to schedule an appointment. They're sure to fill up fast - just like last time - but they only take 5 minutes.

510.769.6905

See you there!
Cheers,
H

OK, OK, OK ... I know I'm behind schedule {Winners Announced}!

Sooo, thanks for participating in my first GIVEAWAY!
You're all awesome...

& here's what we've all been [so patiently] waiting for: THE WINNERS!! Thank goodness for Random.org, 'cause without them, it would have been too hard for me to decide

Teether winners:
Tara E.
Reichel B.
Brittni A.
Tannis Z.
Kathleen C.

AND... The *grand* prize winner is...
Sarah N!!

Congrats to all of you awesome people, and may you continue to be entertained by me on a daily basis.
Love you like crazy,
~Heather

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Glass, Glass & more Glass y'all...

*This contest is now closed*

GIVEAWAY time! Who's excited?!? (other than me?)
Lifefactory & WeanGreen - 2 of MY personal favorite purveyors of all things Glassy & AWEsome - are about to make you as happy as they make me on a daily basis. Yep. Call me Super-Fan. And because most of you share my affinity for all things Glass, you get it, but for those of you that aren't on board yet, I'm here for you. One Lucky winner will receive a virtual cornucopia of glassy-ness{thank me later}
Here're the deets: Multiple ways to enter the aforementioned Giveaway & each entry counts, so faites attention...

#1 - "Like" the Monkey Bars Facebook page & leave a comment on this post showing you've done so

#2 - Follow Monkey Bars on Twitter & leave a comment on this post showing you've done so

#3 - "Like" & post on Lifefactory's FB wall saying how much you ♥ MBs {or them, to be fair} & comment on this post showing you've done so

#4 - "Like" & post on WeanGreen's FB wall saying MBs sent you {and naturally, how much you love them} & - wait for it - leave a comment on this post showing you've done so...

ONE Lucky winner will receive the following from WeanGreen: a 4 pack of Wean Cubes glass baby food containers & from Lifefactory: One 22oz bottle of their choice/One 16oz bottle of their choice/One *new* (so exciting) toddler sippy of their choice/One 9oz Baby Bottle of their choice & last but not least, a silicone teether... Sad about just one winner? Well don't be. Since this is my first proper Giveaway, I'm going ahead with 5 runners-up: Silicone teethers for the lot of you! Start sharing the love. You won't regret it.

Contest closes on Friday, August 12th so don't dilly-dally...
Love you, mean it
~H