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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!

The BIG McWane Discount is Back!

Posted on by Angie

The BIG McWane Discount is back! We are partnering up with the McWane Science Center for the 6th year in a row to offer Birmingham Moms, Dads, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles and Friends $20 off any membership level!

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

20$ off is HUGE savings and you can purchase from a BirminghamMommy representative, in person at the McWane Center OR New for 2015!!! You can purchase online using CODE:  BhamMommy If you’re currently a McWane member, you can renew for next year at this rate!

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.

This discount will be valid for 1 week only… November 15th – November 21st. We’ll be out around town with membership forms, check back for a schedule of times and places!

Don’t miss this amazing opportunity that they offer only 1 week each year!

 

Birmingham Events Calendar: November 8th – November 15th

Posted on by Angie

Several events going on this week to celebrate Veteran’s Day.. The annual parade in downtown Birmingham and discounted admission to the Birmingham Zoo. Homestead Hollow is happening over the weekend if you’re looking for a fun arts and crafts show that will get you out in the fall weather. If you’re looking for a little Christmas Spirit, check out the The Grand Lighting at the Outlet Shops of Grand River.

Have a great week!

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


Sunday November 8th:

Moss Rock Festival – Moss Rock Preserve
Come enjoy artists inspired by nature, our eco district partners featuring green living ideas, products, services and organizations, live music, engaging constructions and installations, The Sweetery, WonderKid studios, hiking, biking, geocaching,  fuel-efficient car exhibitions, a café, and the great outdoors.

We guarantee it will be a weekend where discoveries are the norm! Grab friends and family and get outside to explore nature at this premier eco-creative festival in Alabama.

The festival is free. Visitors must Park & Ride to the festival from The Hoover Metropolitan Stadium. The shuttles are frequent, free, and easy to use. After a quick glimpse at The Preserve neighborhood, the shuttle will drop you at the festival’s front steps.
10am – 4pm

Christmas Village – BJCC Exhibition Halls
Whether your list is short or long, and whether your budget is big or small, you will find creative gift solutions for everyone you love. However you choose to experience Christmas Village Festival, it will be so much more than a shopping trip. It will become the event you choose to kick off your Christmas shopping year after year.
Adult Tickets: $12.00
Children 6-12: $5.00
Children under 6 admitted Free!
$1.50 handling fee per order.
12pm – 5pm

American Girl Just Like Me – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Autumn’s glory is ready for harvesting! Join us as we learn the story of young American Girl, Kaya, from the Nez Perce tribe. We’ll explore the Three Sisters Garden of corn, squash and beans while we harvest peanuts, cotton, and sweet potatoes. Create a Kaya-inspired craft with amazing things we gather from the earth. You won’t want to miss this beautiful afternoon of discovery.
$15 Members | $20 Non-Members
2pm – 4pm

Mini Maker Faire Make Workspace – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us to see demonstrations and experience some of the latest products in 3D printing, robotics, coding, programming and more.
11am

Mini Maker Faire Meet the Makers – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us for this engaging session that will feature Jennifer Johnson, who will be discussing and demonstrating the craft of making jewelry with paper.
1pm

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Monday November 9th:

Veteran’s Day – Birmingham Zoo
In honor of this special holiday, all active and retired military personnel and their dependents will receive FREE admission on November 9,10 and 11! Bring your military identification card to take part in all the fun the Zoo has to offer. Ride the train* and carousel*, watch sea lion training demonstrations and much more! Bring your family and spend this Veterans Day at the Zoo!

*Additional Cost for attractions

The LEGO Club – Homewood Public Library
An exciting new building challenge for Kindergarten-5th grade.  Bring your imagination, and we will provide the rest!
3:30pm

Tot time with Ms. Eve, Silly Does It – Avondale Regional Library
Get ready to giggle with my favorite silly stories and songs! 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 10th:

Veteran’s Day – Birmingham Zoo
In honor of this special holiday, all active and retired military personnel and their dependents will receive FREE admission on November 9,10 and 11! Bring your military identification card to take part in all the fun the Zoo has to offer. Ride the train* and carousel*, watch sea lion training demonstrations and much more! Bring your family and spend this Veterans Day at the Zoo!

*Additional Cost for attractions

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 11th:

Veteran’s Day Parade – Downtown
Parade begins at 1:30 and will follow this route:

1.Start on 18th St. and Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd.
2.South on 18th St. to 2nd Ave N.
3.East on 2nd Ave N. to 22nd St.
4.North on 22nd St. to 5th Ave N.
5.West on 5th Ave N. to 19th St.
6.North on 19th St. in front of City Hall
7.End at 19th St. and Rev. Abraham Woods, Jr. Blvd.

Veteran’s Day – Birmingham Zoo
In honor of this special holiday, all active and retired military personnel and their dependents will receive FREE admission on November 9,10 and 11! Bring your military identification card to take part in all the fun the Zoo has to offer. Ride the train* and carousel*, watch sea lion training demonstrations and much more! Bring your family and spend this Veterans Day at the Zoo!

*Additional Cost for attractions

Veteran’s Day at American Village
Veterans, active members of the United States Armed Forces, their families, and the public are all invited at attend the wreath laying and soil enshrinement, visitors may tour the National Veterans Shrine and Register of Honor, and take part in additional activities through 4 p.m. at the American Village.

Admission is free to veterans and active military.

$8.50 Adults (age 18-59)
$8.00 Youth (age 5-17)
$8.00 Seniors (age 60 and over)
FREE (age 4 and under)
10am – 4pm

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Thursday November 12th:

The Grand Christmas Tree Lighting – Outlet Shops of Grand River
Join us and experience the magic as Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive from the North Pole to celebrate the lighting of The Grand Christmas Tree.

NTERACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT
From 5 – 6pm
Minions
Geoffrey the Giraffe from Toys R Us
Enchanted Princesses
Magician

·         LIVE PERFORMANCES
Begins at 6pm on the Grand Stage
Alabama Ballet
The Birmingham Girls Choir
Red Mountain Theater Company

·         FREE ACTIVITIES
   Following Performances
Photo with Santa & Mrs. Claus in Sleigh
Holiday Arts and Crafts
Balloon Art
Face Painting
Hot Chocolate
Cookie Decorating
And More…

SHARE THE MAGIC and donate unwrapped toys to Children’s of Alabama Sugar Plum Shop – Toy Drop.

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 13th:

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

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Saturday November 15th:

Saturday Storytime at Highlands – Highlands School
Join in with your 3 to 5 year old children for an exciting storytime– full of books, songs, musical instruments, arts and crafts, snacks, and our famous “leaf hunt parade”.
10am

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

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

Snowplow Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Big trucks may brag and roar, but small and steadfast wins the day in this cheerful story with timeless appeal.
On the Mighty Mountain Road Crew, the trucks come in one size: BIG. That is, until the little snowplow joins the crew. None of the other trucks think that the little snowplow can handle the big storms, but he knows that he can do
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 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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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.

Event: Moss Rock Festival

Posted on by Angie

Grab friends and family and get outside to the Moss Rock Festival at The Preserve in Hoover. Explore Nature, Eco Ideas, Art + Design at Alabama’s premier eco-creative festival now in its 8th year. Innovation, imagination, and fun await 15,000 visitors under a blanket of fall colors at this idyllic neighborhood setting adjacent to Hoover’s own 350 acre Moss Rock Preserve. MRF features something for everyone. At the forefront of the festival is unique artwork from 100 exhibiting artists inspired by nature. Eco and +Design exhibitors, which are intermingled amongst the artists’ creations, are full of innovation, imagination, sustainability, and green living ideas. Design and function are on display at the festival’s Eco:Drive. See and learn about the latest fuel efficient cars that will save you money at the pump. A crowd favorite, the Nature of Cakes expo and tasting, gathers visitors in The Preserve’s Town Hall for a sweet display of show cakes that will amaze on the 2013 design theme challenge of “Fleas & Antiques.”

Admission is free! Hours are 10am-5pm Saturday and 10am-4pm Sunday. Parking, shuttle, and collections for electronics recycling will take place at the Hoover Met. For all the details, please visit MossRockFestival.com or call 205-595-6306. And follow us on Facebook & Twitter all year long for important announcements, special offers, eco posts, and updates! Join the eco-creative conversation!

Festivities include:

  • ARTIST ROW: Juried Artists in all media and at all price points will be showcasing over 5000 Works of Art primarily inspired by or depicting nature and/or made from recycled or natural materials.
  • ECO DISTRICT: “green living”. This outdoor district will serve as an informative and cool connection to various eco-friendly living ideas, products, businesses and organizations making strides in the green movement. Have a question? Need Advice? Get answers by asking the experts.
  • SmartLIVING: this marketplace offers wellness initiatives, gluten free products, organic food education and more for making healthy decisions in your life.
  • MOSS ROCK PRESERVE: patrons can participate in a fun geo-location game or take a guided hike in the 250 acre Moss Rock Preserve.
  • CAFE BY THE WOODS: the perfect place to get great eats, drinks & treats at the show including festival favorite features like Greek Tavern, plus Cantina, Fresh off the Bun, Full Moon Bar-B-Q, and Steel City Pops, which are packing lots of flavor in the portable food truck model.
  • BEER GARDEN – a craft beer tasting: There is an art to crafting a great beer. With multiple breweries now open in the area, Birmingham is quickly becoming the home for a growing brewing industry. The Beer Garden at Moss Rock Festival would like to celebrate their efforts and successes in the community. In 2013, we are proud and excited to showcase the skilled crafts of the following local breweries at the Beer Garden: Avondale Brewing Company, Beer Engineers, Cahaba Brewing Company, Good People Brewing Company. This year we have added The J. Clyde as a bar/restaurant partner, and Hopy City as a retail partner. Order tickets online from our website! http://mossrockfestival.com/food-fun-contests/beer-garden/
  • CRESCENT STAGE: live music from local talent
  • WONDERKID ART STUDIOS: interactive art projects for the kids using nature as a launching point for creative projects – the WOW variety!
  • NATURE OF CAKES EXPO & TASTING: an expo & ticketed tasting – Tasting Tickets are $1, or a full tasting for $5. Come see the baking talents of top cake designers. The 2013 Theme and Design Challenge is “Fleas & Antiques”. The cake designs promise to amaze!
  • PLANET PROJECTS: a classroom project for creative recycling: The project will increase children’s awareness of “the seed” and its function in nature. Participating Schools: Brocks Gap Intermediate, Simmons Middle School, and Berry Middle School.
  • ECO-DRIVE: See and learn about the latest fuel efficient car innovations. This year, we are featuring Tameron Hyundai, Long-Lewis Ford Lincoln, and Hoover Toyota.
  • ELECTRONIC RECYCLING: Technical Knockout will be taking donations at the Hoover Met on Saturday and Sunday, visit www.technicalko.net for more info on acceptable donations.

FREE PARKING
 All visitors will Park & Ride from the Hoover Met, located off of Hwy 150 and Stadium Trace Pkwy. For detailed directions to Regions Park, please visit MossRockFestival.com and click the “About” menu heading link.

FREE SHUTTLE – SCHEDULE
 It’s quick & easy. Only a short 5 minute ride. Shuttles will run regularly from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm Saturday and 9:30am to 5:00pm. The site will be blocked to thru traffic except for home owners & their guests.

Mom Shaming

Posted on by Angie

By Kristen Berthiaume:

Although it’s definitely not a new thing, there’s been much in the news lately about “mommy shaming” and how it impacts new (and not-so-new) mothers. It seems that everyone – from other parents, to non-parents, to experts – has strong opinions about what moms should and shouldn’t do and, for some reason, the very act of mothering appears to encourage everyone to share (Share opinions I mean. Did you think I meant share toys? No one is sharing toys). Breastfeed-bottlefeed-use disposable diapers-use cloth diapers-medicate-don’t medicate-start solids-delay solids-sleep train-co-sleep-sleep when the baby sleeps-attachment parent-cry it out-put a hat on her- take his socks off-go back to work-don’t go back to work… The sheer volume of “helpful advice” is enough to make anyone feel like they are completely incompetent. And, mommy shaming during the infancy stage is only the beginning! Soon, mothers are either hearing that they’re hovering over their toddlers or not paying them enough
attention. “ It goes on from there: sign them up for sports-make sure they have free time-only feed them organic food-avoid strict diets-she should be reading by this time-she’ll read when she’s ready. Mom shaming continues throughout the child’s schooling to the college search, as kids enter the workforce and long-term relationships, and when they begin to consider parenthood. According to many, there is a “right” way and time for everything – and you’re doing it all wrong.

For new moms, much of the “advice” given is well-meaning and there’s probably no intention to create guilt or negative feelings. Most people believe that they’re genuinely telling you something you didn’t already know like that disposable diapers are bad for the environment or that there are lots of benefits to baby-wearing. But off-handed comments have a real impact, especially on mothers, so it’s helpful to have some responses ready that maintain your relationship with that person but do not invite nagging.

Don’t feel that you have to explain why you’ve made the choice you have – it’s none of that person’s business. Try something like, “I appreciate you sharing that – we considered that information when we made our decision.” Then, move on. If the advice-giver insists on constantly criticizing you when you spend time together, it may be time to cut that person from your life. In the case of a relative, in-law, or close friend doing the disapproving, have a sit-down, possibly including your partner/spouse, and state that while you enjoy spending time with her, you’ve noticed that she often criticizes your parenting.

Explain that you are doing the best you can and that you have sought out the most up-to-date information. Remind her that you will make mistakes as a parent, which is O.K., and that you need others’ support to help you become a more competent and confident mother. If that doesn’t work, just threaten no more baby time until she shuts her trap (Just kidding. But maybe not). There is an exception I want to point out and that is safety. When someone suggests to you that you may be putting your child
at risk – the carseat is incorrectly installed or the child is incorrectly buckled in (Remember: NO COATS IN CARSEATS!) or an infant is sleeping on her tummy instead of her back – that is not the kind of information you can politely ignore. Even if it makes you feel bad to realize that you may have been doing something dangerous for months or even years, you’ve got to act for your children’s sake. In those instances, take a deep breath and thank the person giving you the information. Tell him or her that you’ll check on it and then DO. Search the web or ask your pediatrician to make sure that you’re following the safest practices for your child. Your child’s health and safety are too important to let pride get in the way. Also, the way you handle this kind of feedback from someone may affect whether they give it to other parents who need to hear it in the future. In other words, you may be contributing to a process that’s life-saving to someone else’s child – or your own. Try to accept this kind of advice for what it is and know that it may well have been difficult for the other person to share with you.

For moms with older children, the most popular mom shaming topics appear to be: working versus staying-at-home and being on social media. Remember the “open letters” written to moms playing on their phones at the playground instead of using that time to enjoy those fleeting precious moments with their preschooler? If that’s not an example of mom shaming, I don’t know what is. I agree, wholeheartedly, that no parents (hear that, dads? I mean you, too) should be playing on their phones constantly when in their children’s presence. It’s crucial that we set certain limits for ourselves to model appropriate use of technology and allow ample time for interacting with our kids, spouse, friends, etc. But, maybe the mom at the park checking her Instagram has had a really rough start with that sweet-faced little boy who is quietly entertaining himself in the sandbox and this mental break is the only thing keeping her from complete and total meltdown. Let her have her time – she probably played with that little oppressor all #%&* morning. Even if a mother is spending “too much” time on social media, the shaming likely only contributes to that by diminishing her feelings of being a competent mother and making necessary an escape. It only makes sense that we tune in to social media more when we don’t feel like we’re doing a good job with some aspect of our real lives.

So, what can we do instead? We want to engage with others and make connections. Can we do that without being critical? Before you say something to a new mother, think about whether that kind of question would be appropriate for someone who is male or in another stage of life. Do you really need to know if this woman’s baby came out of her vagina or her stomach or someone else’s body? Is it any of your business what her baby is drinking – breastmilk or formula? Would you ask a man in the grocery store specific questions about a recent medical procedure or inquire whether your neighbors eat organic vegetables? New mothers love to talk about their babies until they don’t. Sure, ask the polite, harmless questions like the baby’s name and when she was born but skip inquiring about the intimate details of her birth story, her plans to have more babies, and whether she’s lost her birth weight yet.

These questions are all inherently judgmental because they imply, intentionally or not, that she may be failing at this motherhood stuff. Talk with new mothers about other things; things that, like, regular people might talk about: books you’ve read recently, the crazy weather, politics (on second thought, don’t talk about politics).  Would mom shaming even exist if we all focused on an “It takes a village approach?” Instead of giving the mom playing on her phone the side eye because she’s ignoring her kid, how about you kept an eye on him, too – just in case there’s a problem. Yes, I know – he’s not your kid, not your responsibility. But, aren’t there times in life where others have stepped up for you? Given you a pass? Pay it forward. You can show that you understand her situation with comments like, “Kids sure do have a lot of energy!” or by talking about how you’re grateful for playgrounds so children can entertain themselves for a while. In this way, you’re expressing empathy for her role as mother rather than passing judgment or suggesting she should be doing something differently. Likewise, if you’re a SAHM who volunteers frequently at your child’s school, keep an eye out for the kids whose parents both work and aren’t usually able to be there. Can you give them a bit of extra attention? Can you be a “room mom” just to them? And, hey, no judgment if you don’t want to try this – it’s just a suggestion.

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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