☰

2nd Annual Pumpkin Decorating Contest

Posted on by Angie

We had so much fun last year with your pumpkin submissions we decided to do it again!

We love going all out when it comes to decorating and that includes our pumpkins.. We want to see how creative our readers are.. Whether you carve, paint, or wax your pumpkins with melted crayon, we want to see what you’ve done, so we’re hosting a little contest.. We want you to submit your finest creation for a chance to win 2 Admission Tickets to Boo at the Zoo..

Submit your photos to us at contact@birminghammommy.com or message them to us on Facebook.. We’ll be featuring some of our favorites on social media throughout the next week, The deadline for entries will be noon on Thursday the 19th and we’ll announce the winner Friday, October 20th!

Make sure to include your name and an email where we can notify you if you win.

All pictures submitted are subject to posting on any and all of BirminghamMommy.com social media.

Event of the Week! Shopkins Live!

Posted on by Angie

Shopkins Live! is finally here! The #1 kids toy in North America is live and on stage in Shopkins Live! Shop It Up! Your beloved Shoppies make their theatrical debut in an original new live show featuring musical performances by Jessicake, Bubbleisha, Peppa-Mint, Rainbow Kate, Cocolette, Polli Polish and more! The fun and fashionista Shoppies are joined by the Shopkins – the grocery store-themed mini collectable toys – Apple Blossom, Strawberry Kiss, Lippy Lips, Kooky Cookie, Poppy Corn, Slick Breadstick and Shady Diva. An ensemble cast of multi-talented performers brings the show to life on stage through urban style music, song and dance.

All of Shopville is in a tizz as preparations get underway for the annual “Funtastic Food and Fashion Fair.” Shady Diva showcases her latest fashion designs; Lippy Lips gives colorful advice at the nail salon; Kooky Cookie tries to get in a beauty nap! But wait – no event is complete without a few hiccups! Who has high-jinxed the fashion pageant? Where is the super-secret celebrity guest? Will Slick Breadstick ever find a dance partner? The Shopkins and Shoppies need your help – the show must go on!

Shopkins Live! immerses audiences in the world of Shopville using custom-designed theatrical costumes, creative onstage characters, state-of-art video and set design, and original pop songs and music! Grab your besties and check out Shopkins Live! Shop It Up! Check ya later!

To purchase tickets visit Ticketmaster.com

The Friday Five: Top Picks for Weekend Fun October 6th – October 8th

Posted on by Angie

Weekend fun for the whole family! So many things kicking off this weekend you might have to rock, paper, scissor to figure out which one to do first! Here are our top picks to help narrow it down!

  • Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum Pumpkin Patch Express

Board their vintage train for a beautiful autumn ride through the scenic forests of Shelby County to the Pumpkin Patch to pick your perfect pumpkin!

Pumpkins can be purchased when you pick up your tickets at the Calera Depot ticket window prior to the event or on location at the Pumpkin Patch for cash only.

While at the Pumpkin Patch, you’ll also get to take a hay ride, bounce in the inflatable bounce house, and participate in a variety of other family-friendly activities! The Pumpkin Patch Express train ride lasts approximately 1½ hours including the train ride and time at the Pumpkin patch.

Every Saturday and Sunday in October

  • Tomb of the Risen Dead at Desoto Caverns

The Haunted Halloween Park will feature two incredible haunt attractions: “The Labyrinth of Lost Souls” and “The Tomb of the Risen Dead.” The Labyrinth of Lost Souls will be located within our 3/4 acre maze. In “The Labyrinth of Lost Souls” Attraction each guest will be deciding their own fate and ultimate reward, but not without encountering the assembly of the Shadows who may long to persuade each and every guest to stray. The cave will be transformed into “The Tomb of the Risen Dead” Attraction and the not-so-faint of heart guests will experience a thrilling awakening because the deep is ready to speak. When thrill seekers exit these attractions they can join in the festival fun and entertainment located in the center of the park.

Every Friday and Saturday night in October
6:30pm – 10:30pm

  • Birmingham Zoo Rocks

You’re invited to join us for Birmingham Zoo Rocks on the new Henley Park event lawn from 9am-5pm on Saturday, October 7! Children who bring their own painted rock will receive FREE admission on October 7. There will be painted Zoo rocks in Henley Park – leave your painted rock in Henley Park and take a new one!

Saturday, 9am – 5pm

  • Birmingham Children’s Theatre – Jungle Book

Recommended for ages 5 and up
Approx. length: 1 hour and 20 mins
Children’s tickets are always only $10

Public showings on Saturday and Sunday at 2:30pm

  • Hogwarts Express at the Homewood Library

Join us as we delve into a different Harry Potter book each month through crafts, snacks, and activities. In October, we will recreate fun from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. K-7th grade.

Sunday, 3:30 – 4:30pm

 

Our Sponsor:

The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum is the official railroad museum of the state of Alabama! Located just south of Birmingham in Calera, Alabama. The museum features operating standard gauge and narrow gauge trains, two restored depots, an indoor collection of railroad artifacts and memorabilia, and an outdoor collection of railroad cars, locomotives, and cabooses.

The museum is dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and operation of historically significant railway equipment. Our exhibits, operating railroads, and educational programs function as both a unique means of tourism and recreation, and also a way to preserve the rich history of Alabama and our nation.

 

 

Discipline with Love

Posted on by Grace A

Parents typically have the goal of raising happy healthy children. One of the biggest controversies today is the proper way to maintain happiness and healthiness while disciplining.

Most parents are at a complete loss when it comes to disciplining their kids. How many times have we heard or said “I just don’t know what to do” or “nothing works”? Many young parents were raised under the saying “spare the rod, spoil the child” and are looking for a different way to teach appropriate behavior. A popular method is disciplining with love. But what does that mean? How can you discipline in a loving way? It was a confusing concept to me at first because most discipline I remember receiving definitely did not make me feel loved. So how does it work?

When we discipline children we set limits on their behavior and teach them to follow rules. If adults react on impulse with anger and violence children learn those same behaviors. It is a learned and practiced habit to discipline with patience and love. Love is not an action it is a feeling that guides what we do. When it is love in our hearts we are less likely to teach in frustration or anger and instead teach with concern and show our true desire to help them. A few ways we can do this is to:

Establish loving relationships. When there is an established loving relationship there is respect. Loving your child does not mean condoning or ignoring bad behavior. Spending time with children and learning what they like and dislike will give many opportunities to share principles and values that parents expect from their children. When correcting is needed let them know or remind them what is expected so there is no misunderstanding. Set clear expectations. Teach and remind them often the behavior you expect and when such as letting you know when they are going to play with friends.

Let them know there are consequences. Set fair and reasonable consequences for misbehavior but also be aware that some situations need to have flexible consequences. Make it a teaching moment as well. Not every action will deserve a punishment but maybe reasoning and a proposed better action for next time. Children make mistakes just like adults a conversation to understand circumstances can change our perspective on the situation.

Follow through! There have been so many times that I am too tired or lack the energy to punish my kids for misbehavior. But what I am teaching them is that they can get away with disobedience because mommy doesn’t really mean it when she says there are consequences. That won’t go over well for them in the real world. They will have more respect and trust more when there is a sense of predictability in their actions.

Most older generations believe that fear is a key ingredient to appropriate conduct. If they fear the consequences, they will obey. A new way of thinking is to teach them to respect you and then they will want to obey you. If we teach and discipline with kindness, understanding, and respect then children will respond in kind.

Children want to be loved and cared for and if we take the time to give and show that love we will find that there is less time spent on discipline and more time enjoying each other as a family.

About Grace:

Grace was born and brought up in Bessemer, Alabama but has a great love for exploring new places. She has been married for 8 years and has 3 kids, expecting number 4 in December. Having been  a student off and on for the last 10 years she is excited to say that she is finally graduating from BYU-Idaho with a degree in Marriage and Family Counseling this year. She loves to learn and share what she learns with as many people as possible. Strengthening and encouraging positive relationships with couples and families is a life goal and passion. Her biggest hobby is her family and finding new and fun ways to accomplish the above life goal in her home.

Happy Plates Restaurant Review: BarTaco

Posted on by Kristen Berthiaume

OPEN: “11:00 to late” daily
GOOD FOR KIDS: Yes
DATE NIGHT: Definitely
PRICES: $2.50 – $10 each item but you’ll want more than one if you get tacos.
PARKING: Limited parking in front of restaurant. More parking on the street.
ADDRESS: 1017 Oxmoor Road, Homewood. 205-875-8226. www.bartaco.com

Bartaco, a popular restaurant chain started in Nashville, has opened its first Birmingham-area location in the Edgewood neighborhood of Homewood. You’re probably thinking, “Isn’t there already a Taco Mama in Edgewood and isn’t it literally across the street?” You would be correct. But, I think you’ll find that Bartaco has a very different vibe and a few surprises on the menu.

When you enter the open-air restaurant, you feel suddenly transported to someplace beachy with all the white-washed wood and fun, expansive waiting area.  It kind of makes you want to take off your shoes (but probably don’t). Play a game of ring toss until your table is ready or send your kids off to play so you can sit in peace.

The bar is huge and fully stocked – stop by before dinner to order a delicious margarita or caipirinha, or something more adventurous. Next time I go, I’m getting the Red Sonja, which mixes a few ingredients I’ve never heard of with lemon, ginger, and jalapeño. Their tequila list is crazy long so if you have a favorite, they probably carry it. If beer or wine are more your thing, you’re covered there, too. Nonalcoholic options include sodas, sweet tea, a variety of fun, fresh-squeezed juices, French press coffee, and mineral water.

Now for food. The menu is divided into “tacos” and “not tacos,” your first clue this isn’t your typical taco place. Try duck, fried oyster, tuna, chorizo, shrimp banh mi, or ribeye in your taco.  Vegetarians can choose from portobello or cauliflower as a main ingredient. If you don’t want a corn tortilla, choose a lettuce or rice bowl instead. The “not taco” options include pork tamale, chopped salad, plantains, mahi mahi ceviche, and tuna poke. I had the last one and it was both beautiful with bright red and yellow pepper strips and delicious. Side options include chipotle slaw, black bean salad, fresh pineapple with lime, and grilled corn. My friend and I shared some guacamole, which was delicious and mildly spicy. It almost made up for the fact that Bartaco doesn’t have cheese dip (I know, I know. It was hard to hear that). We didn’t get dessert but when I return, I’ll have a hard time deciding between churros and the key lime pie in a jar. Maybe both?

If you’re looking for a laid-back lunch or dinner spot with delicious food and excellent service, Bartaco is a fantastic choice. They have a variety of seating arrangements, making it perfect for family meals, girls’ night out, a quiet lunch alone, or a romantic evening with your partner. Enjoy!

Are You Ready for Cold Season?

Posted on by Grace A

Fall is by far my most favorite season. The holidays, decorations, activities, and smells make life worth living! But bad always accompanies the good and for the Autumn season it comes in the form of germs. With school age kids they are always bringing home something to share with the rest of us, especially colds. This time of year we follow a stricter hygiene regime. Some tips that have worked to avoid cold germs are:

  • Frequent hand washing
  • Using tissues
  • Being diligent with the germ killing spray on all frequently used surfaces around our home and car
  • Dressing warm

We wash our hands like crazy this time of year. The goal is for at least 30 seconds or through two rounds of the alphabet song. And always washing before we eat or drink something. My kids firmly believe that their shirt sleeves are perfect tissues and I cringe every time I observe that habit. We are still working hard to make sure that the millions of tissue boxes around the house are being used and disposed of. Germ killing spray and wipes are my best friend and we use them on everything from doorknobs to toys to car seats. This one habit I think helps the most. We also do our best to always stay warm and dry inside or outside to avoid getting chilled.

Unfortunately, everyone gets sick at some point, even the healthiest and diligent folks. It is not easy but I am always on the lookout for cold symptoms. The earlier you detect it the faster you can treat it.

Cold symptoms:

  • congestion
  • cough
  • runny or stuffy nose
  • itchy or watery eyes
  • sore throat
  • feeling tired
  • headache
  • fever (more common in children)

There is no cure for common colds so as parents we are forced to let them run their course in our children. But, we can ease their pain as well as our own by providing some home treatments. Medication is not my favorite way to handle colds but sometimes when my kids are truly miserable it is my best friend. Using a humidifier, drinking lots of liquids, using saline rinses, and resting also speed up the recovery process. Don’t forget lots of love and that this misery only last about a week.

About Grace:

Grace was born and brought up in Bessemer, Alabama but has a great love for exploring new places. She has been married for 8 years and has 3 kids, expecting number 4 in December. Having been  a student off and on for the last 10 years she is excited to say that she is finally graduating from BYU-Idaho with a degree in Marriage and Family Counseling this year. She loves to learn and share what she learns with as many people as possible. Strengthening and encouraging positive relationships with couples and families is a life goal and passion. Her biggest hobby is her family and finding new and fun ways to accomplish the above life goal in her home.

The Pumpkin Patch Express at Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

Posted on by Angie

All Aboard! Kick up your pumpkin search this year with a ride on the Pumpkin Patch Express at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum!

Board their vintage train for a beautiful autumn ride through the scenic forests of Shelby County to the Pumpkin Patch to pick your perfect pumpkin!

Pumpkins can be purchased when you pick up your tickets at the Calera Depot ticket window prior to the event or on location at the Pumpkin Patch for cash only.

While at the Pumpkin Patch, you’ll also get to take a hay ride, bounce in the inflatable bounce house, and participate in a variety of other family-friendly activities! The Pumpkin Patch Express train ride lasts approximately 1½ hours including the train ride and time at the Pumpkin patch.

Locomotive and caboose tickets area available. Passenger age limits apply – Check with a Ticket Agent prior to purchase.

Pre-purchased tickets may be picked up at the depot, or tickets may be purchased on-site the day of the event.

PLEASE ARRIVE AT LEAST 1 HOUR PRIOR TO YOUR DEPARTURE TIME TO:

– Pick up your tickets at the Calera Depot

– Use the restrooms at the Gift Shop

– Check out the Depot Museum exhibits

– Tour our collection of railroad equipment in Clark Yard

– Visit our working Signal Garden

– Take photos

– Shop the Gift Shop, and

– Get in position to board the train.

The Pumpkin Patch Express kicks off this Weekend and will run every Saturday and Sunday through October!

For more information or to purchase tickets visit their site

Community Night Out Vestavia

Posted on by Angie

Community Night Out is an opportunity for first responders to network with local businesses, civic groups, churches and community volunteers in a symbolic stance against crime and the promotion of public safety. The event promises to be an opportunity for the community to come together for a night of free food, drinks and family fun.

VHPD will be launching a new community initiative in which we encourage pet owners to become part of the VHPD “Blue Crew.” The “Blue Crew” is an initiative to encourage pet owners to be vigilant while walking their best friend, have their cell phone handy, and report any suspicious activity immediately. We will give our partners a free “Blue Crew” leash, membership card and a photo op.

Who: Vestavia Hills Police and Fire Departments
What: Community to come together for a night of free food, drinks and family fun. Additionally, VHPD will be launching a new community initiative in which we encourage pet owners to become part of the VHPD “Blue Crew.” The “Blue Crew” is an initiative to encourage pet owners to be vigilant while walking their best friend, have their cell phone handy, and report any suspicious activity immediately. We will give our partners a free “Blue Crew” leash, membership card and a photo op.
Where: Vestavia Hills City Hall located at 513 Montgomery Hwy. Vestavia Hills, AL 35216.
When: Tuesday, October 3 from 5:30pm – 8:00pm.

 

The Friday Five: Top Picks for Weekend Fun Sept 29th – October 1st

Posted on by Angie

Our top picks for weekend fun around the Magic City this weekend! Get out and enjoy!

  • Alabama Fair at Oak Mountain Amphitheatre

Kicking off this weekend and running through the October 8th is the Alabama Fair! Attractions including: Royal Hanneford Circus, Pig Races, Thrill Shows, Petting zoo and more! Live music by: Jack Russell’s Great White, Bellamy Brothers, Montey De Durango and more!

Friday, 4pm – 11pm
Saturday, 11am – 11pm
Sunday, 12pm – 10pm

Check here more information on times, dates and admission prices

  • Irondale Whistle Stop Festival

Wide variety of art and food vendors from around the region located in the historic Downtown Irondale.

Saturday, 10am – 7pm

  • Griffin Farms in Helena

Opening Day at the Patch! Hayrides, Pumpkins, Tire Mountain, Hay Maze, Obstacles and more! Live music and yummy goodies! Every weekend in October, kicking of October 1st.

Sunday, Noon – 6:30pm

Cool tunes, craft brews and sweet views with these up-and-coming artists as well as everyone’s favorite cast iron statue, Vulcan. Chill out in Birmingham’s backyard with your lawn chairs and blankets and bring the whole family out to enjoy some of the country’s best new entertainers.

Sunday, 1pm – 6pm

  • Peppa Pig Live at the Alabama Theatre

An action-packed live show featuring your favorite characters as life size puppets and costume characters in Peppa Pig’s Surprise! Come join Peppa, George, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig and more in an all singing, all-dancing adventure full of songs, games and surprises!

Sunday, 5pm

 

Our Sponsor:

The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum is the official railroad museum of the state of Alabama! Located just south of Birmingham in Calera, Alabama. The museum features operating standard gauge and narrow gauge trains, two restored depots, an indoor collection of railroad artifacts and memorabilia, and an outdoor collection of railroad cars, locomotives, and cabooses.

The museum is dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and operation of historically significant railway equipment. Our exhibits, operating railroads, and educational programs function as both a unique means of tourism and recreation, and also a way to preserve the rich history of Alabama and our nation.

 

 

Time to Fly with the Homewood Witches Ride!

Posted on by Angie

The Homewood Witches Ride (HWR) is a fun, crazy 2.5 mile bike ride through the streets of Homewood where women dressed as witches ride their brooms-bikes and throw candy to the little monsters along the posted route. The kids and families can see route online and plan to safely wait on the sidewalks for the witches to fly by. The Witches ride to celebrate the beautiful spirits who have lost their lives to cancer. Inspired by Paula Stringfellow Ford, The Homewood Witches Ride allows all of your registration fees, silent auction donations, and sponsorships to go to the American Cancer Society and its efforts to find a cure for lung cancer.

On April 6, 2013, Paula Stringfellow Ford (Mama P) unexpectedly passed away from a rare, non-smoking form of lung cancer. Paula inspired us all to embrace our uniqueness, accept others for theirs, and live lives overflowing with joyful awareness. In the fall, Paula and several friends would participate in a witches bike ride in Florida (the Witches of South Walton). Mama P and her witches found so much joy in dressing up and passing out candy to local children. The October following her death, Paula’s daughter, Janie Ford Mayer, had the idea for a similar witches ride to celebrate her mother’s spirit in a fun, light hearted way. With little planning, more than 50 witches flew into ride and raised money for the American Cancer Society. Fast forward to last year where over 450 Witches participated and raised $16,500! The covens are growing every day and together we are making a difference! 2017 will be the 5th anniversary for the Witches Ride.

What you need to know:

Registration opens Sunday October 1st. BirminghamMommy is a proud supporter and can’t wait to Fly again this year! We hope you’ll join us!

The 2017 Ride will take place on the evening of Sunday October 29th

Participation fee is $25 per person and you must be over the age of 18.

Riders are responsible for providing their own candy for tossing in the 2 candy zones.

To register or to learn more.. visit Homewood Witches Ride

Advertisements