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Giveaways to Giftaway: Ringling Bros Circus AND Monster Jam!

Posted on by Angie

We’re kicking off our “Giveaways to Giftaway” with a BIG Combo pack of tickets to see the circus AND Monster Jam when they come through Birmingham in January.

2 Lucky Readers will win:

A 4 pack of tickets to Monster Jam, opening night, January 8th at 7:30pm

Featuring:
Monster Jam® Trucks: Grave Digger® driven by Jon Zimmer, Carolina Crusher driven by Gary Porter, Higher Education driven by Jim Tracey, Black Stallion driven by Matt Cody, Strait Jacket driven by Kevin King, Instigator driven by Paul Breaud, Backdraft driven by TBA, Barbarian driven by Devin Jones
Subject to change without notice.

A 4 pack of tickets to the circus, opening night January 27th at 7pm

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 LEGENDS at the Legacy Arena at the BJCC.

How to Enter:

1. Leave a comment here letting us know you want this MONSTER Combo of tickets.

2. Extra Entry/Entries for sharing on your social media, with this link: http://ow.ly/VgXxt  and tagging @BirminghamMommy or #BirminghamMommy (you must leave a comment here for every social media platform you post to)

This giveaway will end at noon on Wednesday, December 2nd. Winners will be notified via email and on social media.

Good Luck!!

Birmingham Events Calendar: November 29th – December 6th

Posted on by Angie

We hope you all had a great and filling Thanksgiving! There are lots of fun Holiday Happenings kicking off this week. Fun story times holiday movies, breakfast with Santa, Zoolight Safari and BirminghamMommy.com will be kicking off our “Giveaways to Giftaway” so keep an eye out here on the site and on our Social Media for a chance to win a lot of cool prizes that you’ll be able to keep for yourself or gift away this Christmas!

Have a great week!

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

Monday November 30th:

Pelham Christmas Tree Lighting – Pelham Civic Complex
Event begins with the Pelham High School Jazz Ensemble at 6:15pm. Choirs and bands from Valley Elementary, Valley Intermediate, Riverchase Middle and Pelham High Schools will provide Christmas music for everyone to enjoy. Skate performances provided by the Pelham Skate School will accompany the music and a Pelham Mite Under 8 Division Hockey Game will take center ice. Enjoy cookies and cocoa with Santa and meet members of the Alabama Youth Ballet’s The Nutcracker. The Pelham Christmas Tree Lighting is free to the public and sponsored by the City of Pelham and the Pelham Beautification Board. Free ice skating after Tree Lighting Ceremonies!

Tot time with Ms. Eve, I have two hands for helping – Avondale Regional Library
Who just put the toys away? Join us as we discover who that special helper really is. Tot Time is geared for 2 to 4 year olds with an individual caregiver, no groups please. 24-hour advance registration required.
9:30 and 11am

Preschool Playtime – Homewood Public Library
We’ll provide the stations, and you provide the imagination for a fun morning of play with your child aged three and under.  Daycare groups must call 332-6619 in advance to schedule time.
10am

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Tuesday December 1st:

City of Birmingham Holiday Lights – Vulcan Park
The annual City of Birmingham Holiday Lights moves to Vulcan Park and Museum for the first time for a family-friendly evening of musical entertainment, arts and crafts for the kids, prize giveaways, fun with V, the Vulcan mascot and a vist from Santa and Mrs. Claus. You may also enjoy book signings in the gift shop and great food and beverages will be available for purchase. Get your Holiday Season off to a wonderful start with a visit to Holiday Lights.
5pm – 7pm

Evenings at EOL – Emmet O’Neal Library
Bring the family in PJs and enjoy a different activity each week. PJ Storytime: special sleepytime stories and a bedtime snack. Movie & Popcorn: 30-minute family-friendly movies and movie popcorn. Boards & Blocks: LEGOs and board games. Craft: supplies provided. Call 879-0497 to find out what this week’s program will be. All ages. No registration required.
6pm

Holiday Flix – Homewood Library
We are showing some of our must-see movies of the holiday season, and we would love for you to join us for popcorn and drinks!

Nightmare Before Christmas
3:30pm

Home Alone
6pm

Family Tours, Bon Appetit– Birmingham Museum of Art
FREE // Meet in the Main Lobby
Join the Museum educators to explore the galleries in a fun, interactive experience! Discover Bart the Art Bat’s favorite artworks during these FREE, drop-in tours. After your tour, visit Bart’s ArtVenture to make an art project inspired by what you saw. What will you discover?

Bon Appetit: The holidays are here and it’s time to indulge! Feast your eyes on art in our collection and learn more about food and dining in art.
10:30am

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

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Wednesday December 2nd:

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 December 3rd:

American Girl, Girls Just Like Me: Festival of Tress – Birmingham Museum of Art
Celebrate the beauty of the season in The Gardens with American Girl fun!  Enjoy crafting with fragrant plant material such as evergreen and cinnamon, a short hike, holiday story, and delicious treats while learning how your favorite American Girl characters celebrate the holidays.
$15 members | $20 non-members
3:30pm – 5:30pm

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

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

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Friday December 4th:

Jingle all the Way Christmas Music and Songs of the Season – Homewood Public Library
Stories, songs, and sing-a-longs to make the season bright. Storyteller Dolores Hydock and musical master Bobby Horton mix traditional carols, jolly songs, and sweet stories to fill your holiday with spirit. Advance reservations are essential! The show includes a light hors d’oeuvres buffet starting at 6:30 p.m. ,with the program beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 and will be available beginning Monday, November 9th. Purchase your ticket before December 2nd

Polar Express Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
In celebration of the 30th anniversary of The Polar Express, we will be hosting a Pajama Party! Also, starting Saturday, November 7 at Storytimes, you and your child will be given the opportunity to create a train car of our customers’ “Most Special Gift” memories or pictures. Our Special Gift train will be displayed in our Children’s area throughout the season!
7pm

Zoolight Safari – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo comes alive for 19 nights of holiday-centric fun at ZooLight Safari presented by Wells Fargo! New this year, enjoy the all-new Glacier Glide Ice Rink**. Glide past your friends and family on the ice skating rink in Trails of Africa!  Be amazed by light displays in this transformed winter wonderland. View over one million lights, listen to holiday music and delight in festive snowfalls every night! Enjoy a ride on the Candy Cane Train*, go for a spin on the Jingle Bell Carousel*, experience the thrill of the over 100 foot Yuletide Slide* and so much more. Every night at 6pm, watch a tree lighting ceremony with an illuminating tree reaching nearly 30 feet tall in Trails of Africa! Be sure not to miss a special appearance and photos with Santa through December 23. *Requires ride ticket. **Requires ride ticket and ice skates. The Glacier Glide Ice Rink is made of synthetic ice. Children under 5 must be accompanied by a skating adult
Members: FREE
Non-members: $8 plus tax
*Ride tickets: $3.50 plus tax
**Ice Skates: $3.50 plus tax and $1.50 plus tax ice skate rental. Guests can bring their own ice skates.
BEST VALUE! Unlimited attraction wristband: $12 plus tax

5pm – 9pm

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Saturday December 5th:

Zoolight Safari – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo comes alive for 19 nights of holiday-centric fun at ZooLight Safari presented by Wells Fargo! New this year, enjoy the all-new Glacier Glide Ice Rink**. Glide past your friends and family on the ice skating rink in Trails of Africa!  Be amazed by light displays in this transformed winter wonderland. View over one million lights, listen to holiday music and delight in festive snowfalls every night! Enjoy a ride on the Candy Cane Train*, go for a spin on the Jingle Bell Carousel*, experience the thrill of the over 100 foot Yuletide Slide* and so much more. Every night at 6pm, watch a tree lighting ceremony with an illuminating tree reaching nearly 30 feet tall in Trails of Africa! Be sure not to miss a special appearance and photos with Santa through December 23. *Requires ride ticket. **Requires ride ticket and ice skates. The Glacier Glide Ice Rink is made of synthetic ice. Children under 5 must be accompanied by a skating adult
Members: FREE
Non-members: $8 plus tax
*Ride tickets: $3.50 plus tax
**Ice Skates: $3.50 plus tax and $1.50 plus tax ice skate rental. Guests can bring their own ice skates.
BEST VALUE! Unlimited attraction wristband: $12 plus tax

5pm – 9pm

Holiday Faire – Alabama Waldorf School
Join us for Alabama Waldorf School’s 28th annual Holiday Faire! Do your holiday shopping here commercial-free and full of good cheer, with local artists and crafters selling original artwork, handmade goods, toys, jewelry, soaps and more! The whole family is welcome to celebrate the season with an International Lunch Buffet and Bake Sale, student performances, games, pony rides, a Little Elves Store, Drum Circle with John Scalici, Climbing Wall from Idlewild Adventure Company, and live music by Taylor Hollingsworth, The Joiners, and Rachel Roberts.
10am – 3pm

Breakfast with Santa – North Shelby Library
Join us for a great time of food, fun, and pictures with Santa. Breakfast will be from 9:00 – 9:30. Pictures with Santa and a Christmas craft will be 9:30 – 10:30. Tickets are $5.00 per person, and is due at the time of registration. Please call or visit the library for to purchase tickets. All Ages are welcome.  Tickets are on sale now!

Bart’s Art Cart– Birmingham Museum of Art
This drop-in art program for kids and families features a different theme from our galleries and art activity each month. Stop by to make art with Bart!
Tea Time!: Brrr… it’s getting chilly! Warm up with some tea! Make your own cup and saucer to take home, then host your own tea parties all winter long.
11am

How the Grinch Stole Christmas Storytime– Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us for coloring and activities on December 5th at 11:00AM as we celebrate all things Grinch with a special event featuring How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
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 December 6th:

Zoolight Safari – Birmingham Zoo
Watch as the Zoo comes alive for 19 nights of holiday-centric fun at ZooLight Safari presented by Wells Fargo! New this year, enjoy the all-new Glacier Glide Ice Rink**. Glide past your friends and family on the ice skating rink in Trails of Africa!  Be amazed by light displays in this transformed winter wonderland. View over one million lights, listen to holiday music and delight in festive snowfalls every night! Enjoy a ride on the Candy Cane Train*, go for a spin on the Jingle Bell Carousel*, experience the thrill of the over 100 foot Yuletide Slide* and so much more. Every night at 6pm, watch a tree lighting ceremony with an illuminating tree reaching nearly 30 feet tall in Trails of Africa! Be sure not to miss a special appearance and photos with Santa through December 23. *Requires ride ticket. **Requires ride ticket and ice skates. The Glacier Glide Ice Rink is made of synthetic ice. Children under 5 must be accompanied by a skating adult
Members: FREE
Non-members: $8 plus tax
*Ride tickets: $3.50 plus tax
**Ice Skates: $3.50 plus tax and $1.50 plus tax ice skate rental. Guests can bring their own ice skates.
BEST VALUE! Unlimited attraction wristband: $12 plus tax

5pm – 9pm

American Girl, Girls Just Like Me: Festival of Tress – Birmingham Museum of Art
Celebrate the beauty of the season in The Gardens with American Girl fun!  Enjoy crafting with fragrant plant material such as evergreen and cinnamon, a short hike, holiday story, and delicious treats while learning how your favorite American Girl characters celebrate the holidays.
$15 members | $20 non-members
3:30pm – 5:30pm

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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: Ocean Oasis, Horses, 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.

Parenting with a PhD: Scheduling and Holidays, Helping your Kids Avoid the Holi-Daze

Posted on by Angie

By Kristen Berthiaume

I know what you’re thinking: you’ll sleep when the holidays are over. But, now that Christmas trees go up as soon as jack-o-lanterns are tossed on the compost pile, the holiday season has never been longer. Or busier. Burning the candle at both ends so you can soak up every second may have worked in the pre-parenting days but your kids don’t make the day-to-evening transition quite as smoothly as your LBD. Here are some ideas for helping your family be dazzled but not dazed by the holiday season.

The first and most important step is to compare calendars so there won’t be any last minute surprises. Put everything on the table so there’s likely to be at least one holiday event each family member will enjoy. If you need more options, check sites like the BirminghamMommy.com Weekly Events Calendar for family-friendly events.

Once you’ve taken stock of all the possibilities (and it’s important to see them as possibilities at this stage, not obligations), talk as a family about what’s most essential for each person to make the holiday special. Is going store-to-store with list in hand the only way to jumpstart the season for you? Does your spouse/partner love parties but have no patience for baking? Will your daughter attend to every decorating detail at home but melt down around a lot of people? Take into account everyone’s preferences and create a tentative schedule (key word: tentative) for the season. Then, consider some of the following factors and make changes as needed:

Does this schedule allow everyone to get adequate rest? Try to maintain the regular bedtime schedule, even when the kids are out of school. Most can handle going to bed a half hour later but for children who won’t sleep in the next morning, staying up presents a problem. If you’re going to an event that will require you to be out late, hire a sitter. Well-rested kids: It should be on your Wish List.

Does this schedule allow you to fit in mealtimes? Make sure you and the kids power up between activities and do your best to plan for actual meals, not just quick snacks on the go. Keep in mind that most holiday gatherings offer a fair amount of junk food so fit in the healthy stuff (broccoli Christmas trees?) when possible.

Does this schedule allow time for home work and homework? Most of us don’t feel good when we’re behind on the laundry (don’t look in my basement) and teachers won’t accept missing homework because your child was at a pajama party with Santa. Make sure there’s plenty of downtime for catching up on the things you do every day of your real life. Keep in mind that your kids may need extra homework time near the end of the semester if they have exams or projects.

Does this schedule take into account your family’s financial resources? Relevant health issues? Have you factored in preparation time (Dinner for 30? No problem!) in addition to the events themselves? Most importantly: Does thinking about doing all these activities excite you or leave you feeling drained? If it’s the latter, you have more culling to do.

Some final thoughts: Remember that it’s O.K. to say no. Your real friends will understand if you just can’t make it. Those who get angry at you? Re-think those relationships. You can’t do it all. Trying will only make you dread the holiday season. Send e-cards, go with store-bought (Oh, the horror!), take a break from hosting. And, for goodness sake, go easy on the wrapping – it’s just going to get ripped off anyway.

Once your family’s holiday schedule looks fun and manageable, post it where all can see. But, consider it a work in progress. Use it as a guide but don’t be hesitant to make additions, substitutions, or deletions, as needed. Be prepared to leave an event early or skip it entirely if it proves too demanding for your family. In truth, the holidays should be a time to gather and enjoy being together. Too many activities, even when attended as a group, detract greatly from the overall experience. Even worse, an overscheduled holiday can lead to stressed out parents and children, which is a memory no one will treasure for years to come. Your kids will enjoy the holidays much more if they are spent with relaxed parents, regardless of which activities you do (or don’t!) choose. I wish you all a Happy, Low-Stress Holiday Season!

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

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.

Winter Wonderland and Magic of Model Trains, McWane Science Center

Posted on by Angie

Winter Wonderland along with the Magic of Model Trains exhibit features many winter-inspired activities, holiday films in IMAX and visits from Santa.  For the sixth consecutive year, Royal Cup, Inc., a Birmingham-based coffee and tea distributor, is the presenting sponsor of the Winter Wonderland and the Magic of Model Trains exhibit.  “Especially during this time of year, Royal Cup supports initiatives that are family-oriented, and these sponsorships at McWane Science Center are a great example of that,” said Bill Smith, President and CEO of Royal Cup, Inc. “We look forward to Winter Wonderland and the Magic of Model Trains and hope all enjoy the holiday fun!”

Winter Wonderland will occupy the third floor of the museum along with the Magic of Model Trains throughout the holiday
season.  Children can zip across the room on the extended zipline, slide down the Ice Slide, take a picture in Santa’s sleigh or try their luck ice fishing.  Winter Wonderland also includes holiday films in IMAX, breakfast in Santa’s workshop, and holiday themed camps.  A schedule of events and registration information is available at www.mcwane.org.

“We really enjoy the holidays and the excitement they bring to McWane,” said Amy Templeton, President and CEO of  McWane Science Center.  “Children of all ages come and enjoy Winter Wonderland each year.”

The Winter Wonderland and The Magic of Model Trains exhibits will open Nov.  21 and will run through Jan. 10.  For more
information, visit www.mcwane.org.

Finding Santa around Birmingham – 2015

Posted on by Angie

Santa Claus is coming to town.. Here’s a guide to finding him around Birmingham this year! Many locations are offering online scheduling, if waiting in long lines with tiny humans isn’t your thing, give it a try!

Brookwood Village

Enjoy visits and photos with the legendary Singing Santa!  A variety of photo packages will be available. Visiting Hours (Santa will take occasional breaks to feed the reindeer.)

Times vary greatly by day: Visit their site for a full schedule

Santa at the North Pole – Saks Plaza, Summit Shopping Center

Now thru December 24th

Meet Santa at The North Pole in Saks Plaza! Get a professional photo taken with Santa plus enjoy a treat from Bud’s Best Cookies.
Sunday – Friday, 11am – 6pm
Satrudays – 12pm – 6pm

For online Scheduling –  Santa Appointment

Riverchase Galleria

November 6th – December 24th

Santa Claus is coming to town! Bring your little ones to share their holiday wish list, and get your annual Santa photos.

Location: Lower Level between Auntie Anne’s and Bare Minerals. Make your reservation to see Santa and save 30% or more!

My Time With Santa

Don’t wait in line! Reserve your time with Santa and save 30% or more* on your photo package! Photo pre-purchase is required to book your time, however all guests can enjoy savings by pre-purchasing a photo package online without making a reservation.

Photo purchase and reservations are not required to visit with Santa.
Santa Hours

Please note: Santa will be taking breaks throughout the day to feed the reindeer and check on toy production at the North Pole.

Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops

Now thru December 24th

The Magic Returns! Free Santa Photos & free personalized digital Christmas Card. Free Crafts and Activities. Lots of fun to be had in Santa’s Wonderland. For a full list of Activities, visit their site

Breakfast in Santa’s Workshop – McWane Science Center

Date: December 5th and 12th
Times: 8:30 am – 10:00 am
Cost: $20 Adults, $15 Kids

Bring your little elves to have breakfast in Santa’s Workshop. Make holiday crafts, have breakfast together, explore the Winter Wonderland exhibit and visit with Santa! Be sure to bring your camera!

Reservations are required. Call (205) 714-8414 or click HERE for tickets.

Santa in the City – Chick Fil A, 5pts Location

December 12th, 11am – 2pm
Have your picture made with Santa, enjoy Christmas Crafts, milk and a FREE chocolate Chunk Cookie! Tis the Season for giving. Chick Fil A 5pts will be collecting toys for Children’s Hospital. Consider bringing a donation for the Sugar plum shop at Children’s of Birmingham.

Breakfast with Santa at the Birmingham Zoo

December 5, 12 & 19th
9am and 10am

Make your reservations now for this popular holiday event. Enjoy a scrumptious scrambled egg and sausage breakfast with orange juice and coffee at the Kudzoo Café followed by a visit from Ole Saint Nick himself. All children receive a special treat upon arrival. Purchase your tickets in advance today. Click here and select the date and time you would like to come!

Pricing:
Non-Members- $25.00-Adults, $20.00-Kids
Members- $20.00-Adults, $15.00-Kids
*Tax included

Breakfast with Santa – North Shelby Library
Join us for a great time of food, fun, and pictures with Santa. Breakfast will be from 9:00 – 9:30. Pictures with Santa and a Christmas craft will be 9:30 – 10:30. Registration Required. A $5.00 fee per person is due at the time of registration. All Ages are welcome
December 5th

The Santa Special at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Musuem

November, 28th, December 5th, 12th and 19th, 2015
11am and 2pm

Take a train ride filled with Christmas Cheer as you ride the Santa Special! Board our vintage train decorated for the season and take a train ride where Santa will visit with all the boys and girls!

Talk with Santa and tell him what you would like for Christmas! Santa will have a treat for every boy and girl! Make sure to bring your camera to get a photo of all the sights and make a picture of your family with Santa!

The Santa Special train ride lasts approximately 1 hour. Please arrive 1 hour prior to your departure time to pick up your tickets at the Calera Depot, use the restrooms at the Gift Shop, and to get in line at your boarding location. Make sure to visit the exhibits in our Depot Museum, our collection of railroad equipment in Clark Yard, our working Signal Garden, and our Gift Shop!

Click here to reserve your seat!

Free Photos with Santa at Grabow Outdoors

Santa Claus is making his way to Grabow Outdoors once again this holiday season!

Families will have the opportunity for their children to visit with Santa and have a professional photo taken with him on Friday and Saturday, December 11-12 and 18-19 from 11:00 am – 4:00 pm. Each family will receive one free 4×6 photo.

Located in Fultondale, Ala., Grabow Outdoors is equipped with the perfect backdrop for your annual Santa Claus experience. With the store’s unique rustic atmosphere adorned with Christmas decorations, Santa and your child will sit on an oversized gleaming hand-crafted wood bench in front of a massive stone fireplace.

“Families and kids of all ages will have a great time kicking off the holiday season by enjoying a visit with Santa,” says David Self, Director of Operations at Grabow Outdoors. “Visits with Santa are a Christmas tradition for many families in the area and we offer a beautiful and unique backdrop. The event was very successful last year so we are thrilled to once again be a part of creating holiday memories for our customers and community.”

Grabow Outdoors is located at 2980 Hawkins Lane, Fultondale Ala., 35068. Take I-65 North to Exit 265-B and follow Highway 31 North.

 

Birmingham Events Calendar: Thanksgiving Week

Posted on by Angie

A little different take on our calendar this week since it’s Thanksgiving. A lot of the regular scheduled story times will be taking a break this week but there are still several options for fun this week! Have a GREAT Thanksgiving Week!

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

 

Winter Wonderland and Magic of Model Trains – McWane Science Center

The Winter Wonderland is back at McWane! Sleigh bells ring… are you listening?  It is the sound of Winter Wonderland at McWane Science Center.  Bring your family to the most magical place around this holiday season.  Laughter is in the air as children coast down the Ice Slide and take a whirl across the room on the extended zip line.  Climb aboard the McWane Train and go for a ride or try your luck at ice fishing.  Holiday happenings continue throughout the season with the return of the Magic of Model Trains, holiday films in IMAX, visits from Santa, and even holiday themed camps.  There’s something for everyone at McWane Science Center this holiday season!

Now Through January 10th

Shadrack’s Christmas Wonderland – Birmingham Race Course

Join us at the Birmingham Race Course for a 3 mile trip into a Christmas Wonderland…hundreds of thousands of brilliant LED lights dancing to holiday music with custom displays of Santa and his friends from the North Pole on their summer safari! For complete details visit http://shadrackchristmas.com/birmingham-al/. This show is fun for the whole family – and sure to become a Christmas tradition for you and yours! Coupons available at all Express Oil Change and Tire Engineers Locations and all Serra Automotive Dealerships.
Open Nightly now – January 3rd.

Oak Mountain Festival of Lights – Oak Mountain Amphitheatre

A mile of lights and a lifetime of memories await you and your family at the Festival of Lights presented by Legacy Credit Union. There’s a little bit of Clark Griswald in all of us and no better way to get into the Holiday spirit – without the risk of frostbite – than to enjoy a dazzling display of lights in the shapes of holiday themes and characters from the comfort of your own car. Follow the path all along the property of the Oak Mountain Amphitheatre with your radio tuned to Festival of Lights Radio brought to you by Bojangle’s Famous Chicken and Biscuits (93.3 FM) to enjoy a customized Holiday broadcast, synchronized to the amazing light show. Bud’s Best Cookies Holiday Village for cookies and milk. The Festival of Lights presented by Legacy Credit Union is certain to delight visitors of all ages.

Open nightly starting November 23rd through January 3rd

* Estimated closing times are 9:00PM – 10:00pm on weeknights and 10:00PM – 11:00PM on the weekends. Based on traffic flow and crowds closing times may vary.

Tot Time with Ms. Eve – Avondale Library

Gobble gobble! I’m thankful for library friends and families, and great holiday stories. Tot Time is geared for 2 to 4 year olds with an individual caregiver, no groups please. 24-hour advance registration required.
Monday, November 23rd.
9:30 and 11:00am

Preschool Playtime – Homewood Public Library

We’ll provide the stations, and you provide the imagination for a fun morning of play with your child aged three and under. Daycare groups must call 332-6619 in advance to schedule time.
Monday, November 23rd
10am

Moonlight Madness and Black Friday Sale – The Outlet Shops of Grand River

The Outlet Shops of Grand River will be kicking off the Holiday Season with a great Family-Friendly shopping event featuring fun themes, sales and perks for shoppers! Their Moonlight Madness and Black Friday sale runs November 26th – November 29th. Doors will open at 9pm Thanksgiving Day

The first 500 shoppers in line under the atrium at 8:30pm Thanksgiving night get a Moonlight Swag Bag stuffed with goodies valued up to $500 or more!

Scout Elf Return Boot Camp – Barnes and Noble Summit

Saturday November 28, 2015 11:00 AM To celebrate The Elf on the Shelf tradition we will be hosting a Scout Elf Return Boot Camp featuring fun activities children and families can to do prepare for their Elf’s return this holiday season.  

                                           

Moonlight Madness and Black Friday at The Outlet Shops of Grand River

Posted on by Angie

Are you a Black Friday shopper? If nothing says bargain to you like a good after Thanksgiving sale, The Outlet Shops of Grand River is where you’re going to want to be next Friday!

The Outlet Shops of Grand River will be kicking off the Holiday Season with a great Family-Friendly shopping event featuring fun themes, sales and perks for shoppers! Their Moonlight Madness and Black Friday sale runs November 26th – November 29th. Doors will open at 9pm Thanksgiving Day.

The first 500 shoppers in line under the atrium at 8:30pm Thanksgiving night get a Moonlight Swag Bag stuffed with goodies valued up to $500 or more!

With stores like Toy’s R Us, Children’s Place, Gymboree, OshKosh, Carters, Old Navy, Justice and Gap Factory Store this will be a one stop shop for picking up what you need for the kiddos this year. But with more that 70 stores to choose from, we’re pretty sure you’ll be able to take care of everyone on your shopping list!

Grab your friends and family and finish up that list so you can hit the ground running – Did you know shopping can burn off those Thanksgiving calories?? It’s a win/win!

The Outlet Shops of Grand River is located at Exit 140 along the I-20 growth corridor between Birmingham and Atlanta in historic Leeds, Alabama. The convenient location is minutes from Downtown Birmingham and Highway 280.

6200 Grand River Blvd East
Leeds, AL 35094

 

$20 Off McWane Memberships – 1 Week Only!

Posted on by Angie

THE biggest discount you will see this year for the McWane Science Center and it’s only available through BirminghamMommy.com!

Starting today, save $20 off any membership level (new or renewal.) You have from November 15th – November 21st to take advantage of this savings.

You can purchase as many of these memberships as you want as gifts! Tip: Call the grandparents, aunts and uncles and let them know this is what your kids want for Christmas. They can mark you off of their shopping list and it takes up no space in your house! A win/win for everyone.

Here’s how to get your discount!

1. Use Promo Code: BhamMommy when purchasing on the McWane Science Center Website.

2. Print the Coupon below and present at the ticket counter in person at McWane Science Center.

3. Stop by one of the following locations and see a BirminghamMommy.com Representative.

Monday November 16th – Yogurt Lab, Vestavia 3:30 – 5:30
Tuesday, November 17th – Starbucks, Lakeshore 11:30 – 1:30
Friday, November 18th – Chick Fil A, Fultondale 10:30 – 12:30
Friday, Novemver 20th – Lights up at the Summit, 5:30 – 7:30 (location will be between Lilly Pulitzer and Belk)

Do It Yourself Crafts –

Homewood Location:  Sunday – Saturday, Anytime during regular business hours
Hoover Location: Monday – Saturday, Anytime during regular business hours

Instant Sign Center, Trussville –

Tuesday – Friday, 9am – 4pm

** Please keep an eye on social media for any changes or additions to locations for this week.

Coupon for presenting to McWane ticketing counter:

 

 

Please take a moment to share with friends, family, schools, playgroups and anyone you think could benefit from this savings, we look forward to making this the best year so far!

 

Birmingham Events Calendar: November 15th – November 22nd

Posted on by Angie

The BIG news this week is the BIG McWane Discount is back! We’ll be helping our friends at McWane Science Center out again this week with their yearly Membership Drive. $20 off all membership levels. Make sure to check out where we’ll be and how to sign up on our post, here.

Speaking of McWane, it’s a BIG week with their Magic of Model Trains preview party and the grand opening of Winter Wonderland!

Check out Lights up at the Summit for a fun Holiday Parade and Santa Sighting! We’ll see you there!

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

Sunday November 15th:

Homestead Hollow
one of a kind – hand made, hand decorated arts and crafts. Talk to our pioneer demonstrators the old time days- see wood carving, blacksmithing, soap making, wood stove cooking, quilting, and whiskey making at our original working still, tour our original cabins as they were built by the early settlers. Visit the apiarist and learn about bee keeping. Relax by one of our many streams and listen to live local entertainment all day. Enjoy great food from our food court, bbq, funnel cakes, fried pies, ice cream, beans, greens, footlong corn dogs and so much more! Children’s activities: wagon rides, bunjy jump, moonwalk, face painting Homestead Hollow’s General store is open for you to visit and shop for those home-made fried pies and other great items all day during show dates.

Adults – $7 ~ Children (ages 3 to 12) – $3
Children (ages 2 and under) – Free.
Free Parking. NO PETS ALLOWED.
9am – 4pm

Our World Our Library – Homewood Public Library
Join us for stories, activities and crafts about multiculturalism and diversity.  We look forward to finding out about our world with you!
2:30pm

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Monday November 16th:

Monday Movie – Homewood Public Library
Join us for some after-school family fun on Monday afternoon at 3:30 p.m.  We’ll have popcorn, drinks, and a look inside our emotions!
3:30pm

Tot time with Ms. Eve, Monkeying Around – Avondale Regional Library
Nothing good can come of teasing a crocodile, can it? Join us and find out! Tot Time is geared for 2 to 4 year olds with an individual caregiver, no groups please. 24-hour advance registration required.
9:30 and 11am

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Tuesday November 17th:

Family Fun Night – Teepee Tales
Have you ever wondered how the turtle cracked his shell? Join us for a special night of folklore and storytime fun as we celebrate National Native American Month.
Free but 24-hour advance registration appreciated
6:30pm

Family Tours, Bon Appetit– Birmingham Museum of Art
FREE // Meet in the Main Lobby
Join the Museum educators to explore the galleries in a fun, interactive experience! Discover Bart the Art Bat’s favorite artworks during these FREE, drop-in tours. After your tour, visit Bart’s ArtVenture to make an art project inspired by what you saw. What will you discover?

Bon Appetit: The holidays are here and it’s time to indulge! Feast your eyes on art in our collection and learn more about food and dining in art.
10:30am

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

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Wednesday November 18th:

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 November 19th:

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

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

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Friday November 20th:

Lights Up at the Summit!
Lights Up is a festive parade that will begin at 6:30 pm at Barnes and Noble and ends at Pieology Pizzeria. At the conclusion of the parade, Santa Claus will officially kick off the holiday season with a grand fireworks show.  Santa will also be available for pictures at Pieology Pizzeria following the parade until 9:30 pm.

  • Parade begins at 6:30 pm
  • Birmingham Boys Choir to perform at 5:30 pm near Trader Joe’s
  • Birmingham Children’s Theatre to perform at 5:30 pm in front of Williams Sonoma
  • Pictures with Santa Claus following the parade until 9:30 pm outside Pieology Pizzeria

Make sure to stop by and see BirminghamMommy.coma and McWane Science Center between Lilly Pulitzer and Belk!

Choo Choo! Magic of Model Trains Preview Party – McWane Science Center
Be the first to experience the Magic of Model Trains exhibit and watch Rocky Mountain Express in IMAX.

Ticket includes:
-Admission to the museum and a screening of Rocky Mountain Express
-Hot chocolate and cookies in the museum
-Free train rides
-Free small popcorn
-Free train whistle following the movie for all kids 12 and under

Tickets available for online purchase, beginning October 5. Hot Chocolate provided by Royal Cup Coffee
Adults: $14 Kids: $12
Members receive $2 off

Tannehill Trade Days – Tannehill State Park
Shoppers and swappers come from far and near to Tannehill Trade Days in search of tools, clothing, jewelry, knives, furniture and other treasures.
Park admission:
$4.00 Adults (12 years and older)
$3.00 Seniors (Ages 62 and older)
$2.00 Children (Ages 6-11) ages 5 and under free
8am – 4pm

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Saturday November 21st:

Winter Wonderland Grand Opening – McWane Science Center
Sleigh bells ring… are you listening?  It is the sound of Winter Wonderland at McWane Science Center.  Bring your family to the most magical place around this holiday season.  Laughter is in the air as children coast down the Ice Slide and take a whirl across the room on the extended zip line.  Climb aboard the McWane Train and go for a ride or try your luck at ice fishing.  Holiday happenings continue throughout the season with the return of the Magic of Model Trains, holiday films in IMAX, visits from Santa, and even holiday themed camps.  There’s something for everyone at McWane Science Center this holiday season!

Tannehill Trade Days – Tannehill State Park
Shoppers and swappers come from far and near to Tannehill Trade Days in search of tools, clothing, jewelry, knives, furniture and other treasures.
Park admission:
$4.00 Adults (12 years and older)
$3.00 Seniors (Ages 62 and older)
$2.00 Children (Ages 6-11) ages 5 and under free
8am – 4pm

United Way Food Drive – Birmingham Zoo
Help the Zoo give back to the community this fall with the annual United Way Food Drive! Bring any canned or non-perishable food item and receive half-price admission. See the African elephants in Trails of African, visit the animals at the Junior League of Birmingham- Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo, experience a pelican feeding and much more!

*Limit one discounted ticket per guest.
9am – 2pm

Bart’s Art Cart– Birmingham Museum of Art
This drop-in art program for kids and families features a different theme from our galleries and art activity each month. Stop by to make art with Bart!
Tea Time!: Brrr… it’s getting chilly! Warm up with some tea! Make your own cup and saucer to take home, then host your own tea parties all winter long.
11am

Bart’s Books – Birmingham Museum of Art
Bart’s Books is a storytelling program for children ages 4-7. Bart selects a new book and related work of art each month that he thinks kids will enjoy.

This month, Bart has selected Demi’s The Empty Pot.
11am

Little Kids Table Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
In celebration of Thanksgiving, join us for Storytime featuring The Little Kids’ Table, a silly, rhyming story that follows a group of rambunctious cousins from table setting to dessert. Coloring and activities to follow.
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 November 22nd:

 

United Way Food Drive – Birmingham Zoo
Help the Zoo give back to the community this fall with the annual United Way Food Drive! Bring any canned or non-perishable food item and receive half-price admission. See the African elephants in Trails of African, visit the animals at the Junior League of Birmingham- Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo, experience a pelican feeding and much more!

*Limit one discounted ticket per guest.
9am – 2pm

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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: Ocean Oasis, Horses, 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.

How to Avoid Overeating (AKA The HOLIDAYS)

Posted on by Angie

The more, the merrier! Or maybe not when it comes to your plate and your waist. Here are some ways to keep the excess pounds off while still enjoying your holidays and not denying yourself the food you love:

1. Wait! Don’t go back for seconds just yet. Give your body a 15 minute break. Reason: It takes your body about 15-20 minutes to “feel” full. You may not want that extra gingerbread man after all.

2. Water! Drink lots of it. A body that is dehydrated is often mistaken as being hungry. Use a plastic tumbler or water bottle to make sure you’re getting enough water. It also helps curb your food intake.

3. Plate! Use a small plate. Less food fits on it. The bigger the plate, the more food people tend to pile on it.

Bon Appetit!

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