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Valentines for Children's Hospital, 2016

Posted on by Angie

Will you be their Valentine?

Anything we can do to help put a smile on a childs face makes us smile too and this is a super easy way for all ages to get involved and help the Children at Children’s of Alabama have a special Valentines Day!

Check out which local libraries are participating in Valentines for Children’s this year and let your kiddos get busy making some cards!

Homewood Public Library
Make a Valentine or bring in a homemade Valentine to the Homewood Library between February 1-9.  No candy or glitter please.
February 1st– 9th

Hoover Public Library
Want to share the love with the patients at Children’s of Alabama?  Bring a signed valentine (no candy) for a patient and receive a treat. We are accepting these valentines January 31st-February 9th

North Shelby Library
North Shelby and Mt Laurel Libraries will be collecting Valentine Cards for kids in Children’s Hospital. You can stop by either library to make a card or bring by a store-bought card. No candy please. Cards must be dropped off by Thursday, February 12th.

Pinson Public Library
Stop by anytime between February 1st and February 6th. You can drop off your own valentines or make some at the library!

Southside Branch Library
Teen Time Valentine
Create a valentine for yourself and one for Children’s Hospital.
February 10th

Woodlawn Branch Library
Participants will design valentine cards for patients of the Children’s Hospital. They will also be able to design a valentine to take home with them.
February 4th – 3pm

 

If you know of another library or location participating in this program we would love to add them to our list!

Body Worlds at McWane Science Center

Posted on by Angie

We get so excited when the McWane Science Center brings a cool new exhibit to Birmingham and this time is no exception!

Parenting Notes:

BirminghamMommy had the opportunity to explore the new exhibit, we found it to be incredibly informative and fascinating, but keep in mind that this exhibit is geared more towards middle school aged Children. What you will see are actual human body’s that have been donated to science. There is no censor on this exhibit once you are inside. Entry is ticketed. We think this is an excellent learning tool in teaching Health and Wellness to your children, and is sure to be a conversation starter…  you’ll just have to decide for yourself if that conversation is right for your child.

On January 27, 2016, McWane Science Center in Birmingham, AL will offer a spectacularly unique chance for visitors to explore the intricate biology and physiology of human health and the dramatic effects of disease in BODY WORLDS RX.  This new exhibit is presented by UAB Medicine.

This exhibition, from anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens—inventor of Plastination science and creator of the trailblazing BODY WORLDS exhibitions—will make its world premiere at McWane Science Center.  His new exhibition focuses on the most prevalent contemporary diseases that afflict children and adults alike along with their causes and effects.  BODY WORLDS RX is an informative and entertaining presentation of the latest research on top health issues and shall inspire visitors to embrace preventive healthcare.

From organs, to muscles, to the nervous system and to skeletal structures; visitors will have an unprecedented look inside the intricate systems of the most sophisticated mechanism in the world, the human body. Preserved by the process of Plastination, a complex technique that removes the fluids from the body and replaces them with plastics that harden; the specimens on display show impressive comparisons and contrasts between healthy bodies and organs and those stricken with disease. Particular emphasis is put on some of the most common ailments such as back pain, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases like arteriosclerosis and heart infarctions, dementia, and more.

“We are so happy to bring this exhibit to McWane and to Birmingham.  As a science center, we want to bring exhibits to teach our guests and the public, “said Amy Templeton, President and CEO of McWane Science Center.  “We are fortunate to have such great community partners with UAB Medicine to let us achieve our goal of opening this exhibit.”

Dr. Angelina Whalley, exhibition curator and creative and conceptual designer of the BODY WORLDS exhibitions adds, “BODY WORLDS RX shows human anatomy with far more detail than any textbook. I created this exhibition to encapsulate the key messages of BODY WORLDS and to make each of us aware of the challenges and consequences our current lifestyles may have on our body, our health and our wellbeing at all stages of our life. My intention is to empower the visitor to adopt health habits that are easy to integrate in our daily routines.  BODY WORLDS exhibits have had powerful and lasting effects on visitors, it is my
goal that BODY WORLDS RX is a continuation and distillation of this idea.”

BODY WORLDS RX includes:

Iconic Whole Body Plastinates such as the X-Lady, the Pole Jumper, the Swimmer, the Ligament Body, and more.

Focus Points of the Exhibit:

  • Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in the United States. Visitors will learn the functioning of the cardiovascular system; explore its dense and long network of arteries and how it can be affected by common diseases.
  •  Smoking and the lungs: We all know smoking is unhealthy, but have you seen it with your own eyes? One look at the blackened smoker’s lungs alongside vibrant healthy lungs provides a dramatic and convincing appeal to anyone who cannot quit smoking.  Visitors will learn how smoking impacts the overall metabolism of the body.
  • Locomotive system: Learn how our current sedentary lifestyle causes effects that are noticeable in our locomotive system. In the exhibition diseases and ailments such as arthritis, arthritis, back pain and other bone disorders are explained.
  • Dementia: Twenty-four million people worldwide suffer from Dementia, 5 Million of which are Americans. It is the 5th leading cause of death in Americans age 65 and older and will be growing dramatically. By 2050, 135 million people are expected to suffer from Dementia. A multi-media installation shows the effects to better understand this disease.
  •  Cancer is the second highest cause of death in the United States. Plastinated organs show cancerous tissues and tumor metastases.
  • Obesity is widespread and continues to be a leading public health problem in the U.S. Almost a quarter of 2-5 year-olds and a third of adolescents are overweight or obese in the U.S. Obesity is impressively revealed in this exhibition through the juxtaposition of body slices of an obese and lean body.

Tickets to the exhibit will be free for members on their first visit to Body Worlds RX. $2 per person each additional visit.
Non members, $5 per visit.
You may not purchase tickets just to that exhibit, they can only be purchased with admission to the whole museum.

This traveling exhibit will be in Birmingham January 27, 2016 – May 1, 2016

Are you planning to visit Body Worlds RX? We look forward to hearing what you think!

Photos Courtesy: Scott Butler

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents LEGENDS

Posted on by Angie

Behold the living legends! Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents LEGENDS unveils the unbelievable to Children Of All Ages™. Experience epic family fun as legendary circus artists from around the globe perform awe-inspiring feats of daring, spectacles of strength and thrills of wonder to summon the mythical and the mysterious visions that have only existed in your imagination until now: the Unicorn, Pegasus and Woolly the Mammoth! Join us for an unforgettable family night of legendary proportions at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents LEGEND at Legacy Arena at the BJCC.

Tickets for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents LEGENDS start at $15.00. All seats are reserved, and tickets are available by calling 1-800-745-3000 and at all Ticketmaster outlets. For group rates and information, call 256-533-1953. For more information, visit Ringling.com.

The All Access Pre-Show begins one hour before show time, and is available to all ticket holders at no extra charge! During the Pre-Show, you will be able to be on the arena floor and experience The Greatest Show On Earth up close in ways you never could before! Please note that Educational performances do not include a Pre-Show.

Show Schedule:

Wednesday, January 27th 7:00p

Thursday, January 28th 10:30a & 7:00p

Friday, January 29th 10:30a & 7:00p

Saturday, January 30th 10:30a, 2:30p & 6:30p

Sunday, January 31st 1:00p & 5:00p

Birmingham Events Calendar: January 24th – January 31st

Posted on by Angie

A BIG Week for special Events in Birmingham! The Circus will be rolling into to town, opening this Wednesday. According to the most recent media release, there will be no Elephant Walk this year. It is however the last year to see the Elephants in Birmingham.

Also this week, McWane Science Center will open it’s newest exhibit, Body Worlds.. It will run through May 1st and cost is included in the price of admission.

Have Great Week, Everyone!!

It’s Not Our Fault if Your Kids are Bored!

Sunday January 24th:

Birds of Prey, Masters of the Skies – Alabama Wildlife Center Oak Mtn.
Callaway Gardens, Guest Speaker. Refreshments are offered at 12:30 pm in the AWC observation room followed by the programs at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm in the auditorium. Due to popular demand we are offering two programs, both of which will feature live birds “on the glove” from the Callaway Gardens Birds of Prey Program. Birds of prey are truly masters of the skies. They have keen eyesight, sharp talons and are adept hunters of both birds and animals and, fortunately for us, Alabama is home to several species. During this program you will learn their various features, adaptations and field marks to help you identify them in the field. Bring your children & camera to capture the moment!
12:30 Refreshments available in Observation Room 1:00 First of two programs in Auditorium 3:00 Second of two programs in Auditorium

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Monday January 25th:

Tot Time with Ms Eve – Avondale Regional Library
Bring your wiggles and your giggles and your death defying nerve, because the circus is coming to town. Join us for a storytime of circus fun! Tot Time is geared for 2- to 4-year-olds with an individual caregiver; no groups please. 24-hour advance registration required.
9:30am and 11am

Toddler Tales – North Shelby Library
Stories, songs, fingerplays and crafts make up a lively 30 minute program designed especially for short attention spans. Registration will begin one week prior to each storytime. Ages 19-36 months. Registration Required.
9:30am

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Tuesday January 26th:

Libraryflix – Homewood Public Library
Popcorn and refreshments served. Located in the Large Auditorium.

A girl named Ella who loses her parents at a young age strives to have courage and be kind as she grows up. A wicked stepmother and two ugly step sisters try to make her life miserable, but Ella finds help from the mice and birds around her home. When the prince holds a ball, Ella’s wicked family tries to crush her hopes and dreams. Through the help of a fairy godmother Ella makes it to the ball and wins the heart of the prince. When the magic ends at midnight, Ella must leave her prince and race home. Will he be able to find her and live happily ever after?
3:30pm

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
From brave and bold to creative and clever, the rhythmic rhyme expresses all the loving things that parents think of when they look at their children. With beautiful and sometimes humorous illustrations, this is a book grown-ups will love reading over and over to kids. Join us Saturday, January 26 at 11:00AM for a special Storytime and activities featuring The Wonderful Things You Will Be.

Family Fun Night – Avondale Library
It’s time to grab your sunglasses, put on your summer attire, and lay out on your beach towel as you join us for our 3rd annual January Beach Bash! It’s fun in the cool winter sun Avondale style. 24-hour advance registration appreciated.
6:30pm

Toddler Days – Steel City Jump Park
Story, snack and jumping! Parents jump for free, Children, $8.00. Parents free.
10am – Noon

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Wednesday January 27th:

Opening Night for the Ringling Bros and Barnum Bailey Circus – BJCC
Behold the living legends! Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents LEGENDSSM unveils the unbelievable to Children Of All Ages™. Experience epic family fun as legendary circus artists from around the globe perform awe-inspiring feats of daring, spectacles of strength and thrills of wonder to summon the mythical and the mysterious visions that have only existed in your imagination until now: the Unicorn, Pegasus and Woolly the Mammoth! Join us for an unforgettable family night of legendary proportions at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents LEGENDSSM at Legacy Arena at the BJCC.
7pm

Bodies World Exhibit Opening – McWane Science Center
This exhibition, from anatomist Dr. Gunther von Hagens, inventor of Plastination science and creator of the trailblazing BODY WORLDS exhibitions, will make its world premiere at McWane Science Center Wednesday, January 27. This new exhibition focuses on the most prevalent contemporary diseases afflicting children and adults alike, along with their causes and effects. BODY WORLDS RX is an informative and entertaining presentation of the latest research on top health issues and will inspire visitors to embrace preventive healthcare.

From organs, to muscles, to the nervous system, and toskeletal structures, visitors will have an unprecedented look inside the intricate systems of the most sophisticated mechanism in the world, the human body. Preserved by the process of Plastination, a complex technique that removes the fluids from the body and replaces them with plastics that harden, the specimens on display show impressive comparisons and contrasts between healthy bodies and organs and those stricken with disease. Particular emphasis is put on some of the most common ailments such as back pain, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, dementia, and more.

BODY WORLDS RX illustrates common ailments such as back pain, arthrosis, cancer, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases dementia, and more. Whole-body plastinates, organs and translucent body slices show the complexity of the human body, and its vulnerability in a way that textbooks cannot.
Runs through May 1st

Wiggleworm Wednesdays – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Mandy for our weekly all-ages storytime filled with music, wiggling and fun!
10:30am

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Thursday January 28th:

Ringling Bros and Barnum Bailey Circus – BJCC
Behold the living legends! Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents LEGENDSSM unveils the unbelievable to Children Of All Ages™. Experience epic family fun as legendary circus artists from around the globe perform awe-inspiring feats of daring, spectacles of strength and thrills of wonder to summon the mythical and the mysterious visions that have only existed in your imagination until now: the Unicorn, Pegasus and Woolly the Mammoth! Join us for an unforgettable family night of legendary proportions at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents LEGENDSSM at Legacy Arena at the BJCC.
10:30am and 7pm

Peppa Pig Live – Alabama Theatre
The new live-action adventure ‘Peppa Pig’s Big Splash’ will bring the hit Nick Jr. TV Series to life on stage.
$27.50 and $37.50. Available through Ticketmaster

CHILDREN 1 YEAR AND UNDER CAN SIT ON LAP FOR FREE.  ALL CHILDREN THAT HAVE HAD THEIR 1ST BIRTHDAY MUST HAVE A TICKET.
6pm

Storyday with Nay Nay – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Nay Nay for this fun-filled storytime.  Children ages three and under and a parent or caregiver are invited to shake their beanbags and listen to this amazing storyteller!
9:30 and 10:30

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Friday January 29th:

Ringling Bros and Barnum Bailey Circus – BJCC
Behold the living legends! Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents LEGENDSSM unveils the unbelievable to Children Of All Ages™. Experience epic family fun as legendary circus artists from around the globe perform awe-inspiring feats of daring, spectacles of strength and thrills of wonder to summon the mythical and the mysterious visions that have only existed in your imagination until now: the Unicorn, Pegasus and Woolly the Mammoth! Join us for an unforgettable family night of legendary proportions at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents LEGENDSSM at Legacy Arena at the BJCC.
10:30am and 7pm

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Saturday January 30th:

Ringling Bros and Barnum Bailey Circus – BJCC
Behold the living legends! Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents LEGENDSSM unveils the unbelievable to Children Of All Ages™. Experience epic family fun as legendary circus artists from around the globe perform awe-inspiring feats of daring, spectacles of strength and thrills of wonder to summon the mythical and the mysterious visions that have only existed in your imagination until now: the Unicorn, Pegasus and Woolly the Mammoth! Join us for an unforgettable family night of legendary proportions at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents LEGENDSSM at Legacy Arena at the BJCC.
10:30am, 2:30 and 6:30pm

Groundhog Day Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
A special Storytime celebrating Groundhog Day! At this Storytime we will feature two titles Groundhog’s Dilemma and Groundhog Day Off.
11am

Family Storytime – Emmet O’Neal Library
Bring the entire family and join Mr. Mac for stories and music each Saturday morning.
10:30 a.m.

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Sunday January 24th:

Ringling Bros and Barnum Bailey Circus – BJCC
Behold the living legends! Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents LEGENDSSM unveils the unbelievable to Children Of All Ages™. Experience epic family fun as legendary circus artists from around the globe perform awe-inspiring feats of daring, spectacles of strength and thrills of wonder to summon the mythical and the mysterious visions that have only existed in your imagination until now: the Unicorn, Pegasus and Woolly the Mammoth! Join us for an unforgettable family night of legendary proportions at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents LEGENDSSM at Legacy Arena at the BJCC.
1pm and 5pm

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

IMAX
McWane Science Center’s IMAX® Dome Theater puts you in the center of the action by projecting breathtaking quality images onto the 5-story-tall dome screen and delivering intense surround sound through almost 3 tons of speakers and subwoofers.
Now Showing: Star Wars the Force Awakens, Ocean Oasis, Journey to Space

Birmingham Zoo:

The Birmingham Zoo offers a variety of daily activities from Giraffe and Pelican Feedings to Bird Tours and Lion Training. For a daily schedule of whats happening at the Zoo, visit their site.

Vulcan Park and Museum:

Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue; made of 100,000 pounds of iron and 56 feet tall, he stands at the top of Red Mountain overlooking the city of Birmingham. But, Vulcan is more than a statue. Vulcan Park and Museum features spectacular views of Birmingham, an interactive history museum that examines Vulcan and Birmingham’s story, and a beautiful public park for visitors and locals to enjoy. With an official information center that is operated by the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, Vulcan Park and Museum serves as the first stop for visitors to the Birmingham area!

Railroad Park:

Railroad Park is a 19 acre green space in downtown Birmingham that celebrates the industrial and artistic heritage of our great city. Situated along 1st Avenue South, between 14th and 18th Streets, the park is a joint effort between the City of Birmingham and the Railroad Park Foundation. Hailed as “Birmingham’s Living Room,” Railroad Park provides a historically rich venue for local recreation, family activities, concerts, and cultural events, while connecting Birmingham’s downtown area with Southside and UAB’s campus.

Southern Museum of Flight:

Earn Your Wings – Bring your little pilot and soar above the clouds in our little pilots room. Kids enjoy building aircrafts, flying kites, and more.
Museum Open Tuesday – Thursday
9:30am – 4:30pm

Do you have or know of an event you would like to have added to our weekly calendar? Please email us at contact@birminghammommy.com, subject line “Events Calendar” – We would love to hear from you!

** All information listed on our calendar is subject to change without notice to us or you… We do our best to keep the information accurate and will always update as soon as we learn that something has changed. It’s always best to double check with the event via their website or a quick call,  especially when weather can impact the event.

Recipe: Cookie Butter Cheesecake

Posted on by Angie

If you know of Trader Joe’s, you know of the addictive yumminess that is Cookie Butter. Instead of eating it by the spoonful, which we’re not opposed to and will not judge you for, we are always looking for other ways to share the cookie butter goodness with our other foods.

Over the holidays a friend suggested the idea of a cookie butter cheesecake, so I attempted it, and it was good. So very-incredibly-delciously-good I decided it needed to be shared!

So if you’re a cookie butter fan, you can thank me later. (Or curse me when you have to pick up an extra spin class or 12 to work off those extra calories #sorrynotsorry)

What You’ll Need:

1 Graham Cracker Pie Crust
1 Box of Cookie Butter Cookies (for topping)
Whipped Cream (for topping)

32oz of Cookie Butter Cream Cheese (yes this is a thing!!)
1 Cup of Sugar
1 tsp. Vanilla
4 Eggs

What You’ll Do:

Preheat oven to 325°F.

Beat cream cheese, 1 cup sugar and vanilla with mixer until blended. Add eggs, 1 at a time, mixing on low speed after each just until blended. Pour into crust.

Bake 55 min. or until center is almost set. Run a knife around rim of pan to loosen cake; cool before removing rim. Refrigerate cheesecake 4 hours.

Crumble cookies and top over cheesecake with a heaping spoonful of whipped cream

Mother of All Consignment Sale Lists, Spring 2016

Posted on by Angie

It’s Consignment Time in Birmingham! Time to put that wire hanger stash to good use.. Receiving kicks off very soon for many of these sales, so make sure to follow on through to the actual sale site to get all of the information you might need if you’re planning to sell!

Gardendale:

Kingdom Kids Consignment
Gardendale Mt.Vernon United Methodist

February 7th  – February 13th
Open to the Public 10th– 13th
Sale Info

Helena

Chic Repeats
Helena United Methodist Church

Registration begins February 6
Receiving, March 6th
Volunteer/consignor pre-sale March 10th
Public Sale:
Friday, March 11th
Saturday, March 12th
Sale Info

New 2 You
Cahaba Bend Day School

Receiving, Sunday September 27th

Open to the Public:

Friday, March 4th
Saturday, March 5th
Sale Info

Homewood:

Lil Lambs Consignment
Trinity United Methodist

Open to the Public:

Friday, February 26th – 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Saturday, February 27th– 9:00 AM – 12 Noon
NOTE: Volunteers can shop early at our Preview Sale at 4 PM Thursday, February 25th
Sale Info

Hoover:

Bargains on the Bluff
Bluff Park United Methodist –

Open to the Public:
Friday, February 26th, 9am – 6pm
Saturday, February 27th, 9am – 2pm Discount Day
Sale Info

Kids Wear Plus
1581 Montgomery Hwy –

Receiving – February 27th-29th

Public Sale – March 3rd and 4th
Public Sale (discounted 50%) March 5th and 6th
Sale Info

TNT Sale
Riverchase United Methodist –

Seller sign up begins February 1st.
Open to to the Public:
Friday, March 4th – 9am to 6pm
Saturday, March 5th- 8am to 1pm.
Select items are 30% off on Saturday.
Sale Info

Irondale:

Kids Market and Mom
Located in the old KMart  in the Eastwood Shopping Plaza.
7845 Crestwood Blvd (Hwy 78),
Irondale, AL

Receiving (by Appt)
Tuesday, February 9th 9a-7p
Wednesday, February 10th 9a-7p

Regular Receiving:

Saturday, February 13th 7a-6p
Monday, February 15th 9a-7p
Tuesday, February 16th 9a-7p
Wednesday, February 17th 9a-3p
(Clothing items on hangers only on the 17th)

Public Sale:

Monday, March 7th 9a-8p Opening Day.

Note: During the opening day, No diaper bags or large purses allowed while shopping.
Fanny packs are acceptable

Tuesday, March 8th 9a-8p
Wednesday-Saturday, March 9th-12th 9a-6p

CLOSED Sunday, March 13th

Monday-Wednesday, March 14th-16th 10a-6p
Thursday & Friday, March 17th & 18th 9a-8p
Saturday, March 19th 9a-4p
Site Info

Twice as Nice Sale
BAMOM – Birmingham Area Mothers of Multiples –

Open to the Public:
Public Sale
Friday, February 26th, 2016
5:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Half-Price Sale
Saturday, February 27th, 2016
8:00 am to 12:30 pm
Only items marked with an asterisk (*) or a “Y” next to the word discount are sold at half-price.
Sale Info

McCalla:

Bellview Buddies Consignment Sale
Bellview Baptist Church
6674 Eastern Valley Road

Public Sale:

Friday, March 11th 9am – 6pm
Saturday, March 12th 9am – 2pm

*1/2 Price sale after noon on Saturday
Sale Info

Moody:

Community Kids Closet
Community Presbyterian Church in Moody

Public Sale:

Thursday, April 7th 8am – 7pm
Friday, April 8th 8am – 3pm
Saturday, April 9th 8am – Noon (Highlighted items will be 50% off)

Sale Info

FBC Closet Consignment
First Baptist Church of Moody

Public Sale:

Friday, March 17th 9am – 8pm
Saturday, 18th 8am – 2pm
Sale Info

Mountain Brook:

Sweet Repeats Children’s Consignment
Mountain Brook Community Church

Friday, February 5th 9am – 6pm
Saturday, February 6th 9am – 12pm
*Saturday select items will be reduced to 1/2 price!!
Sale Info

Oak Mountain:

Giggles and Grace
Asbury United Methodist

Receiving: Wednesday February 25th and Thursday February 26th

Open to the public:
February 26th 8am – 6pm
February 27th  8am – 1pm
(Select Items will be 50% off on the 12th)
Sale Info

Trussville:

Growing Kids
Trussville Methodist Church –

Worker/Consignor Registration is January 25th, at 10am
Consignor Registration is January 26th, at 10am

Friday, March 4th,  8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Saturday, March 5th, 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
(Saturday is 50% off many items in sale)
Sale Info

Vestavia:

Butterflies and Bowties
Liberty Crossings Methodist Church (behind Liberty Park)
February 24th – February 27th

Wednesday, Feb. 24 presale 6-8 PM ($10 admission, presale only)
Thursday, Feb. 25, 8 AM- 6 PM
Friday, Feb. 26, 8 AM- 6 PM
Saturday, Feb. 27, 8 AM- 12 PM (many items 50% off)

Whale of a Sale
Vestavia Hills Untied Methodist Church
Thursday, March 3rd, 5pm – 9pm
Friday, March 4th, 9am – 2pm
Most items 1/2 off on the 4th, from 1pm – 2pm.
Sale Info

Market on the Mountain
Student Center, Mountaintop Community Church –

Friday, March 4th 9am – 6pm
Saturday, March 5th 9am – 2pm
Sale Info

Sales Near Birmingham

Cullman Wee Swap

February 29th – March 5th
Located at the Atrium on Hwy 157 in Cullman
www.cullmanweeswap.com

** Please remember that all dates and times are subject to change without notice to BirminghamMommy. Please make sure to double check the sales website and/or Facebook pages for the most current and up to date information. If you have a sale you would like to see on our list, email us at contact@birminghammommy.com

 

Kick Winter Boredom with these Fun Ideas!

Posted on by Angie

Here in the DEEP South, super cold winters and frigid temps aren’t the norm, but we always seem to get our fair share, and it’s bound to have your kids over being indoors sooner rather than later.

So.. What to do when it’s too cold to send the kiddos out but you still need them to burn off energy for the sake of your own sanity? Try some of these ideas!

  • Check out the indoor play places, like Steel City Jump Park, Let’s Play Birmingham,  Pump it Up, and of course the Mcwane Science Center. The Science Center has lots to do year round, for all ages, including the IMAX, and Super BONUS! They have covered parking.
  • Try First Avenue Rocks for a little rock climbing fun. They even offer an after school Climbing Team program for children ages 8-14.
  • Head to the Movies! No, it’s not the most economical choice but if you can hit a Carmike, you can save by catching a Super Bargain Matinee (4pm – 5:30pm), and taking advantage of the refillable popcorn bucket.
  • Try getting those little tushy’s into a sports or dance class. I know, this may seem like punishment for you but what are your other options for getting them to burn off the excess energy? Check out a swimming class at your local Y, or gym. Tumbling in a gymnastics class will surely wear them out and if all else fails, look for a place with a giant ball pit or padded walls. (let us know if you find one.)
  • Hit up the Riverchase Galleria. They have a carousel, Lego store, and Build a Bear. If you go early enough maybe they can have a little freedom to walk with you rather than riding in the stroller. Hit the food court for lunch and you have the perfect indoor, but out of the house field trip.
  • Not in the mood to get out of the house, (which is usually the case for me): Bring the outdoors in. Get out the extra sheets, blankets and pillows and make a ginormous fort out of your living room or play room, trust us on this one, make it remotely cool, throw in a flashlight and some good snacks and you might not see the kids until it’s time for dinner.
  • Make Bathtime Fun! Add bubbles, ice, cups, bowls anything you don’t normally have time for. Shaving cream with a few drops of food coloring and you have instant bath “paint.” Let them go to town.
  • One of our favorite things to do is Dance! Turn up the ipod and let them shake what their Mama’s gave them. Simple, but effective. It will even help you burn a few calories.

Just remember that kids don’t seem to be as bothered by the bitter cold as we are, so if you can get them out for some fresh air for even 10 or 15 minutes (minus tantrum time for coming in too soon) it’s well worth it, and your free time during their nap will thank you.

Birmingham Events Calendar: January 17th – January 24th

Posted on by Angie

Bundle Up Birmingham Moms! It’s going to be a cold week! Lots of fun happening indoors this week at your local libraries.. You have through Monday to catch the Star Wars fun at the McWane Science Center. If you want to brave the chilly weather, you can get 1/2 price admission to the Birmingham Zoo on Monday by bringing any non-perishable or canned food item.

Have a GREAT week!

It’s Not Our Fault if Your Kids are Bored!

Sunday January 17th:

Star Wars Family Weekend – McWane Science Center
Bring the whole family to McWane Science Center for the Star Wars Family Weekend. This three day event includes out-of this-world education activities, costume contests and daily screenings of Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Find your inner Jedi knight! Come in costume and get a special discount.

BrickFair 2016
LEGO models, displays and winding trains sprawled out over 58,000 square feet. BrickFair brings together adult fans of LEGO from across the USA (and Canada, and a few other countries) to show off their projects, great and small, and to share their passion for LEGO – the most awesome toy – ever. LEGO fan festivals like BrickFair are great fun for the whole family! Join in a game or two – maybe win a LEGO set. Vendors will be offering all things LEGO, including shirts, hats, minifigures, custom-molded weapons, unique models, keychains and… really… everything you never imagined.
11am – 4pm

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Monday January 18th:

Star Wars Family Weekend – McWane Science Center
Bring the whole family to McWane Science Center for the Star Wars Family Weekend. This three day event includes out-of this-world education activities, costume contests and daily screenings of Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
Find your inner Jedi knight! Come in costume and get a special discount.

1/2 Price Admission – Birmingham Zoo
In the spirit of service this holiday, bring any non-perishable or canned food item and receive half-price admission to the Zoo during the United Way Canned Food Drive*. While you’re here, watch a sea lion demonstration, experience a pelican feeding, take a ride on the Red Diamond Express** and carousel** and much more! *Limit one per guest. **Additional cost.

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Tuesday January 19th:

Family Fun Night – Avondale Library
It’s time to grab your sunglasses, put on your summer attire, and lay out on your beach towel as you join us for our 3rd annual January Beach Bash! It’s fun in the cool winter sun Avondale style. 24-hour advance registration appreciated.
6:30pm

Toddler Days – Steel City Jump Park
Story, snack and jumping! Parents jump for free, Children, $8.00. Parents free.
10am – Noon

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Wednesday January 20th:

LEGO Club – Springville Road Library
Visit the library to build a masterpiece! We’re meeting once a month to so who can build the fastest, tallest, and best. All blocks provided. No need to bring your own!
4pm

Get Rhythm with John Scalici – Springville Road Library
Drum roll please… Join drum circle leader John Scalici for an afternoon of percussion fun as we “Get Rhythm.” No experience is required to participate and a limited number of instruments will be provided. Ba-dum-DUM! This program is made possible by a Hillcrest Foundation grant.
4pm

Wiggleworm Wednesdays – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Mandy for our weekly all-ages storytime filled with music, wiggling and fun!
10:30am

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Thursday January 21st:

Storyday with Nay Nay – Homewood Public Library
Join Ms. Nay Nay for this fun-filled storytime.  Children ages three and under and a parent or caregiver are invited to shake their beanbags and listen to this amazing storyteller!
9:30 and 10:30

Paw Patrol Party – Homewood Public Library
No job is too big and no pup is too small!  Join Ryder and some of our favorite Homewood Community Helpers for a night of Paw Patrol fun.
6:30pm

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Friday January 22nd:

Stuffed Animal Sleepover – North Shelby Library
Break out your favorite jammies and head to the library for a fun storytime and craft. Bring your favorite stuffed animal, who will enjoy a very special sleepover at the library. Come back the next day to pick up your animal friend and see what they did all night at the library. Registration required. All ages welcome.
4:30pm

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Saturday January 23rd:

Celebrate 75 Years with Dumbo – Homewood Public Library
Dumbo turns 75 years old this year, and so does Homewood Public Library!  Celebrate with Dumbo and friends for a fun-filled morning of circus delight!
10:30am

Family Storytime – Emmet O’Neal Library
Bring the entire family and join Mr. Mac for stories and music each Saturday morning.
10:30 a.m.

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Sunday January 24th:

Birds of Prey, Masters of the Skies – Alabama Wildlife Center Oak Mtn.
Callaway Gardens, Guest Speaker. Refreshments are offered at 12:30 pm in the AWC observation room followed by the programs at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm in the auditorium. Due to popular demand we are offering two programs, both of which will feature live birds “on the glove” from the Callaway Gardens Birds of Prey Program. Birds of prey are truly masters of the skies. They have keen eyesight, sharp talons and are adept hunters of both birds and animals and, fortunately for us, Alabama is home to several species. During this program you will learn their various features, adaptations and field marks to help you identify them in the field. Bring your children & camera to capture the moment!
12:30 Refreshments available in Observation Room 1:00 First of two programs in Auditorium 3:00 Second of two programs in Auditorium

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

IMAX
McWane Science Center’s IMAX® Dome Theater puts you in the center of the action by projecting breathtaking quality images onto the 5-story-tall dome screen and delivering intense surround sound through almost 3 tons of speakers and subwoofers.
Now Showing: Star Wars the Force Awakens, Ocean Oasis, Journey to Space

Birmingham Zoo:

The Birmingham Zoo offers a variety of daily activities from Giraffe and Pelican Feedings to Bird Tours and Lion Training. For a daily schedule of whats happening at the Zoo, visit their site.

Vulcan Park and Museum:

Vulcan is the world’s largest cast iron statue; made of 100,000 pounds of iron and 56 feet tall, he stands at the top of Red Mountain overlooking the city of Birmingham. But, Vulcan is more than a statue. Vulcan Park and Museum features spectacular views of Birmingham, an interactive history museum that examines Vulcan and Birmingham’s story, and a beautiful public park for visitors and locals to enjoy. With an official information center that is operated by the Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau, Vulcan Park and Museum serves as the first stop for visitors to the Birmingham area!

Railroad Park:

Railroad Park is a 19 acre green space in downtown Birmingham that celebrates the industrial and artistic heritage of our great city. Situated along 1st Avenue South, between 14th and 18th Streets, the park is a joint effort between the City of Birmingham and the Railroad Park Foundation. Hailed as “Birmingham’s Living Room,” Railroad Park provides a historically rich venue for local recreation, family activities, concerts, and cultural events, while connecting Birmingham’s downtown area with Southside and UAB’s campus.

Southern Museum of Flight:

Earn Your Wings – Bring your little pilot and soar above the clouds in our little pilots room. Kids enjoy building aircrafts, flying kites, and more.
Museum Open Tuesday – Thursday
9:30am – 4:30pm

Do you have or know of an event you would like to have added to our weekly calendar? Please email us at contact@birminghammommy.com, subject line “Events Calendar” – We would love to hear from you!

** All information listed on our calendar is subject to change without notice to us or you… We do our best to keep the information accurate and will always update as soon as we learn that something has changed. It’s always best to double check with the event via their website or a quick call,  especially when weather can impact the event.

Reading with Ringling, 2016

Posted on by Angie

Reading is a great way to discover, dream, and learn! And, it can even take you to Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents LEGENDS, playing BJCC Arena, January 27-31, 2016.

We are excited to have the following libraries in our area participate in this year’s ‘Reading with Ringling Bros.!’

For Birmingham area library patrons, there is required parent/guardian ticket purchase upon redemption of the child’s card of one (1) paid adult ticket with every three (3) free kids’ tickets. Circus voucher redemption is valid on Wednesday through Friday performances only on upper level seating. See the front and back of your child’s redemption card for more information.

Public Library of Anniston Calhoun County, 108 East 10th St. Anniston, AL 36201
http://www.publiclibrary.cc

Bessemer Public Library, 400 19th St. North, Bessemer, AL 35020
http://www.bessemerlibrary.com

Tarrant Public Library, 1143 Ford Ave. Birmingham, AL 35217
tarrant.lib.al.us/

Fultondale Public Library, 500 Byrd Lane, Fultondale, AL 35068
fultondale.lib.al.us/

Gadsden Public Library, 254 College St. Gadsden, AL 35901
http://www.gadsdenlibrary.org

Gardendale Public Library, 995 Mount Olive Rd. Gardendale, AL 35071
http://www.gardendalelibrary.org

Homewood Public Library, 1721 Oxmoor Rd. Homewood, AL 35209
http://www.homewoodpubliclibrary.org/

Irondale Public Library, 105 20th St. South, Irondale, AL 35210
http://www.irondalelibrary.org

Lincoln Public Library, 47475 US Hwy 78, Lincoln, AL 35096
http://www.lincolnalabama.com/Default.asp?ID=179&pg=Library

Midfield Public Library, 400 Breland Dr. Midfield, AL 35228
http://www.midfield.lib.al.us

Doris Stanley Memorial Library, 1515 Bookmark Lane, Moody, AL 35004
http://www.moodypubliclibr.ord

Emmet ONeal Library, 50 Oak St. Mountain Brook, AL 35213
http://www.eolib.org

Odenville Public Library, 200 Alabama St. Odenville, AL 35120
http://www.odenlib.org

Pell City Public Library, 1923 First Ave. North, Pell City, AL 35125
http://www.pellcitylibrary.com

Pinson Public Library, 4410 Main St. Pinson, AL 35126
http://www.pinsonlibrary.org

Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest, 1221 Montgomery Hwy. Vestavia Hills, AL 35216
http://www.vestavialibrary.org

The Harpersville Library, 749 Hwy. 83, Vincent, AL 35178
http://www.shelbycounty-al.org/

Birmingham Public Library, 4812 Ave. “W”, Birmingham, AL 35208
http://www.bplonline.org

Warrior Public Library, 10 First Street East, Warrior, AL 35180
http://www.warriorpubliclibrary.com

Roy Downs Calera Library, 9700 Highway 25, Calera, AL 35040
http://www.cityofcalera.org/index.aspx?nid=102

Parenting with a Phd: Talking to your Daughter about her Body

Posted on by Angie

By: Kristen Berthiaume

How do you talk to your daughter about her weight? The short answer is – you don’t. Sometimes parents think that if their kid is overweight, either per their own opinion or per diagnosis by the pediatrician, reminders are needed for the child to change her eating and exercise habits. But, when parents focus critically on their children’s weight, kids pick up on the negativity and are likely to internalize it. That’s a recipe for eating disorders and poor body image – not what you were going for. Even complimenting your daughter on weight loss can send the message that it’s highly important she stay thin – even at the cost of her physical and mental well-being. Better to focus on health and on characteristics that have nothing what-so-ever to do with her appearance like how many books she has read this week and what a kind friend she is.

It is OK (and even helpful) to talk to your daughter about her body – about what it can do (Jump! Cartwheel! Shoot a basket!), how strong it is, and how it works in general. Focusing on the neutral (e.g., “Your brain tells your body what to do”) to positive (e.g., “Your strong leg muscles let you run and run!”) aspects of your daughter’s body helps to create a strong, positive body image. Research shows that when people feel good about their bodies, they’re more likely to take care of them. Look together at books like: Basher Science Human Body: A Book With Guts (By Dan Green) or The Usborne Complete Book of the Human Body (By Anna Claybourne) and discuss surprising facts about the human body. There’s also a cool smart device app called “The Human Body” by Tiny Bop that lets kids get interactive with different systems in the body (no worries – the reproductive system isn’t an option!). Instead of putting your daughter “on a diet,” talk about how her body needs good fuel (a.k.a. not “junk”) to stay alert in school, keep moving during soccer practice, and handle the growing she’s doing every day. Discuss what happens with the food we eat inside our bodies – how it is used and how it is stored. Avoid singling fat and carbs out as “bad” – we need both of these things in moderation. Some good books to read together are: Healthy Habits for Healthy Kids (By Tracie Heskett) with versions for different grade levels; How Did That Get in My Lunchbox: The Story of Food (By Chris Butterworth); and What Happens to Your Food? (By Alastair Smith). Also talk about what exercising does for your daughter’s body, like keeping her blood flowing, making her heart strong, helping her think more clearly, and strengthening her muscles. Avoid talking about losing fat or toning muscles, though – those aren’t things a growing girl needs to focus on.

If you’re concerned about your daughter’s health and/or weight, talk to her about starting some healthy habits so she can feel better and be stronger. Take her grocery shopping with you and focus on buying food that doesn’t come in a box. Let her try different fruits and veggies, even if she’s only willing to take one bite of some to find the ones she likes. Help her become more connected to the food she eats by taking her to a farm like Jones Valley Teaching Farm so she can learn more about the growing process. Consider planting a couple of items in a garden that she can help take care of and harvest – there’s nothing better than a ripe tomato right off the vine! Search for fun recipes together using what you’ve bought or grown and taste test your creations. Increase your daughter’s activity level by signing her up for a sport or other activity that involves movement. This is also a great way to make new friends! Invite her on walks or runs with you as special one-on-one time. Consider getting her a kid-friendly activity tracker like the X-Doria KidFit Activity/Sleep Tracker for Kids, which keeps track of kids’ progress towards activity goals without focusing on number of steps or calories burned. Parents can set up systems for kids to earn rewards based on meeting goals. This system also tracks sleep and may motivate your kiddo to go to bed on time!

While we’re focused on strength and health, remember to make positive comments about your own body in front of your daughter and avoid, at all costs, talking about your flaws, the diet you’re on, or how your clothes look “awful” on you. You may have that running commentary going on in your head but is that really something you want her to inherit? Remember that, no matter what your body looks like, it is doing amazing things all the time like digesting food, getting you from place to place, pumping blood so you can live, etc. Focus on the parts you like best – their functionality and their strength. Also, talk about other things about yourself and your life that you’re proud of – like how you stood up for yourself at work or how you figured out what was wrong with the car without calling a mechanic. Your daughter is always, always watching and listening to you – make sure the right stuff is going in!

About this column: Send your parenting- and kid-related questions my way via email at: parentingwithaphd@gmail.com and I’ll tell you what I can: Please be aware that email is not a secure method of transmitting personal information so it’s best to keep your questions general. If your question is featured, your name and email will not be published. Submitting a question does not constitute a professional relationship in any way and this column is not meant to substitute for face-to-face therapy. If you feel  you’re doing the best you can and still need help, it may be time to bring in a professional. Start by talking with your child’s pediatrician to get a referral.

Kristen S. Berthiaume, Ph.D.
Licensed Psychologist

About Kristen:

Kristen Berthiaume, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist with Grayson and Associates. She obtained her doctorate in clinical psychology from the University of Kentucky. She completed a predoctoral internship in clinical psychology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a post- doctoral fellowship in the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD) Program at Duke University Medical Center. She specializes in providing assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and families dealing with the following issues: ADHD, learning disorders, social skill deficits, organizational problems, behavioral difficulties, anxiety, and depression. She generally focuses on behavioral and cognitive- behavioral techniques, but maintains a flexible approach to therapy. Her other day job is as mom to her daughters, ages seven and one, and four-year-old son.

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