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World of Coca-Cola Ticket Giveaway!

Posted on by Angie

In the spirit of kicking off our favorite season here in the South.. The World of Coca-Cola is offering up a 4 pack of tickets to 1 lucky BirminghamMommy.com reader – If you’re planning to head over to Atlanta to watch the Crimson Tide take on the Mountaineers in the Chick-Fil-A Kick Off Game, this giveaway is perfect for you! We’re also throwing in a $25 gift card to Chick-Fil-A to keep your tummy happy while you’re on the road!

If you are going to Atlanta.. Check out this list of to-do’s while you’re there!

6 Things to Do in Atlanta for the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game

1)      Fan Days at the World of Coca-Cola are August 26 through September 2. Buy your tickets here and receive $3 off general admission to get a glimpse inside the world’s #1 brand and see what the fizz is all about.

2)      As a football fan, how could you not visit the new College Football Hall of Fame? The attraction is going all out for its Grand Opening on August 23. Celebrate the rich history of the game and make memories of your own with historic and contemporary artifacts, interactive multimedia displays, children’s activities and more.

3)      For some free fun, grab your fellow fans and hit up Tailgate Town on the West Plaza. How can you resist food sampling, games, giveaways and a BBQ cook-off?

4)      If you want to take your tailgating up a notch, purchase tickets for the Bama Bash Team Tailgate at the Georgia World Congress Center. Yes, that’s an air-conditioned tailgate featuring pregame entertainment and a delicious buffet.

5)      Refresh yourself with an ice-cold drink and cheer on your favorite team at its Pep Rally when you visit the FanZone presented by Coca-Cola Zero. Don’t miss out on the dozens of interactive games and sponsor attractions.

6)      While walking down the Atlanta streets, it’s likely that you’ll find yourself in the middle of a science-fiction scene. That’s because Dragon Con is returning to Atlanta this Labor Day weekend. For some fantastical fun – and lots of Storm Troopers – check out the annual parade.

Up for Grabs: A 4 pack of general admission tickets to the World of Coca-Cola and a $25 Gift Card to Chick-Fil-A.

Here’s How to Enter:

1. Leave a Comment here on the post letting us know you want them.

2. Share this on your Facebook Page: “@BirminghamMommy and @World of Coca-Cola are kicking off Football Season with a Kickin’ Giveaway! Enter Here: http://ow.ly/AwTPT ”

That’s it! Super Easy to enter! Giveaway ends Sunday, August 24th at 6pm and winner will be announced via email.

Happy Football Season!!

 

5 Things I have learned about being fit and healthy during pregnancy….

Posted on by Angie


By: Erin Holtz

1. Listen to your body!

I learned early on during my pregnancy that you have no idea how growing a baby inside of you is going to affect your body, and how differently you are going to feel each and every day. You have to wake up each morning and decide what works for you that day. If it’s skipping your run and going for a long walk instead, then that is what you have to do. After talking to my doctor and getting the okay to work out, I wanted to make sure I stayed on my normal workout routine, but it was hard when I was constantly nauseated and fatigued. My normal routine was pretty intense since I ran 3 days a week, did weights/cardio 4-5 days per week, and did a boxing workout at least twice a week. Yes, I am a personal trainer so I am harder on myself than most people, but I learned quickly that you can’t push yourself beyond your limits while you are trying to supply nutrients and blood flow to your growing embryo.

2. Continue working out!

Just because your friends or co-workers stopped working out, and became a couch potato during their pregnancy, doesn’t mean you have to do the same. As long as your doctor clears you to continue your normal routine, then that is what you should do. I decided early on that I was going to push myself to continue working out until the day I deliver… and so far I am still running 2 days per week (with more frequent walking breaks), walking 2 days per week, and doing my normal low impact weight and cardio workouts in the gym. The issues I have run into with continuing to run is the heaviness in my legs, due to increased fluid. This means I have to stop and walk more often but I still make myself go out there and at least try. Running for me is my stress reliever and time to reflect, so therefore it is important for me to continue this for my sanity. I would highly recommend doing something active every day!

3. Exercise your abdominals!

Even though your abs will soon be stretched and disappear you should still work on strengthening your core and lower pelvic floor. This is going to help you tremendously during labor. I am not talking about doing crunches or sit-ups because that will lead to a very disappointing condition called diastis recti. Diastis is separation of your abdominal muscles and usually occurs from excessive ab workouts, or straining during your pregnancy and mainly your first trimester. To avoid this try switching your core workout to exercises such as teapots (side bends), wood chops, high planks, or bridges. These will help you strengthen the muscles around your pelvic floor and back to help with an easier labor and quicker recovery.

4. Continue a healthy diet!

As always the first trimester is a hard time to eat healthy, but I found that keeping something small on my stomach at all times with eating a healthy snack every few hours helped tremendously. I had to remind myself…everything you eat, your baby eats and that is something to think about every time you put something in your mouth. I cannot say I haven’t given into some foods, that I normally do not eat, that are not as healthy for me, but as long as you eat these in moderation this won’t hurt you in the long run. Remember the weight you put on during pregnancy, you have to work harder to get off after the baby is here.

5. Get plenty of rest!

Rest as much as you can and don’t push yourself too hard. This was hard for me since I am always on the go and could be doing other things instead of taking a nap. But I learned quickly that a nap during the day when you are exhausted helped out tremendously. When you feel fatigued during pregnancy your body is telling you that you need rest. I had to give in and take a power nap daily during my first and second trimester. That little fetus of yours is using all your energy, and in order to function properly, sometimes a nap is all you need.


Erin Holtz, ATC, ACE-CPT
Erin Holtz is a personal trainer as well as an Athletic Trainer with a degree from The University of Alabama. She holds personal training certification from American Council on Exercise as well as an instructor certification to teach CPR, First Aid, and AED for the infant, child, and adult. After moving to Birmingham, AL following graduation she started working full-time as an athletic trainer and part-time as a personal trainer where she began to realize her passion was not only in the athletic field, but also for helping the general public achieve their life and fitness goals. She now works one-on-one with her clients helping them focus on cardiovascular endurance, plyometrics, core development, rehabilitation, pre- and pos-termt pregnancy, strength, and weight loss. Erin recently joined the HomeFit team and is eager to help you achieve your goals in the comfort of your own home. For more information on Erin and the rest of the HomeFit team, visit www.homefitconsulting.com or call 205-675-7412.

Birmingham Events Calendar: August 17th – August 24th

Posted on by Angie

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

Lots to choose from this week! Sidewalk Film Festival is back for it’s 16th year! The Barons are home most of this week, there are storytimes, and a Back to School Bash at Homewood Park! What ever you decide to do, we hope you have a great week!

Sunday August 17th:

BAAMFest – Avondale Park
BAAMFest aims to offer patrons of all ages an unforgettable musical and cultural arts experience! Join us in emerging Avondale for more than 25 live performances, short films, artistic work created by area youth, special events and a tribute to the Legends of Muscle Shoals, featuring Bad Brad & the Sipsey Sims with special guests David Hood, Kelvin Holley and Will McFarland. Programs are scheduled to include live music from all genres, including jazz, blues, rock, hip-hop, reggae, neo-soul, classic soul, electronica and Latin merengue.
Find more details on the 2014 Avondale Music & Art Festival on Facebook: BAAMfest! Band lineup, event schedule and VIP pass/ticket information available at www.baamfest.com!
3pm – 11pm

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Chattanooga Lookouts
6pm

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Monday August 18th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Chattanooga Lookouts
7:05

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Tuesday August 19th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Chattanooga Lookouts
7:05

Family Tours, What does a Warrior Wear – 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?
10:30

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
My Pet Book Storytime. What happens when a boy wants a different kind of pet?
11am

Storytime for All Ages – Homewood Public Library
Story Time
10:30am

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Wednesday August 20th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Chattanooga Lookouts
7:05

Family Story Time with Mr Mac – North Shelby Library
Storyteller Extraordinaire – Come join Mr Mac and his musical storytime complete with puppets! All Ages, no registration required.
10:45am

UniverSoul Circus – Legion Field
COME SEE THE MOST INTERACTIVE CIRCUS IN THE WORLD! Our show is a highly interactive combination of circus arts, theater, and music that spans genres including Pop, Classic R&B, Latin, Hip Hop, Jazz and Gospel. It embraces and celebrates the unique and familiar aspects of pop culture globally by bringing them center stage with a cast of international performers. UniverSoul Circus is rated as one of the top three circuses in America.

Our fresh approach to family friendly live entertainment has earned us a coveted spot as one of Ticketmaster’s top ten most requested family events. We hope you gather friends, family and relatives, and come out to our show. Purchase your tickets today!
7:30pm

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Thursday August 21st:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Chattanooga Lookouts
7:05

UniverSoul Circus – Legion Field
COME SEE THE MOST INTERACTIVE CIRCUS IN THE WORLD! Our show is a highly interactive combination of circus arts, theater, and music that spans genres including Pop, Classic R&B, Latin, Hip Hop, Jazz and Gospel. It embraces and celebrates the unique and familiar aspects of pop culture globally by bringing them center stage with a cast of international performers. UniverSoul Circus is rated as one of the top three circuses in America.

Our fresh approach to family friendly live entertainment has earned us a coveted spot as one of Ticketmaster’s top ten most requested family events. We hope you gather friends, family and relatives, and come out to our show. Purchase your tickets today!
7:30pm

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Friday August 22nd:

16th Annual Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival
Sidewalk 2014 will take place in the Theatre District of Downtown Birmingham on August 22, 23 and 24. The Alabama Moving Image Association was created to inspire, encourage and support films and filmmaking in Alabama. With eight venues located within Birmingham’s historic Theatre District (featuring the newly restored Alabama Theatre, a 2,200 seat movie palace built by Paramount in 1927), spontaneity rules the schedule of Sidewalk attendees. Low-priced weekend passes provide easy access to Sidewalk venues, encouraging attendees to seek out new films and sample programming they may not otherwise see. The result is a crowd rich in diversity and united in a hunger for new film.
For pricing and a schedule visit their site..

UniverSoul Circus – Legion Field
COME SEE THE MOST INTERACTIVE CIRCUS IN THE WORLD! Our show is a highly interactive combination of circus arts, theater, and music that spans genres including Pop, Classic R&B, Latin, Hip Hop, Jazz and Gospel. It embraces and celebrates the unique and familiar aspects of pop culture globally by bringing them center stage with a cast of international performers. UniverSoul Circus is rated as one of the top three circuses in America.

Our fresh approach to family friendly live entertainment has earned us a coveted spot as one of Ticketmaster’s top ten most requested family events. We hope you gather friends, family and relatives, and come out to our show. Purchase your tickets today!
10:30a, 4:30p and 7:30p

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Saturday August 23rd:

Back to School Bash – Homewood Park
The event will kick off the new school year with an array of rides, inflatables, food, a live DJ and entertainment throughout the night. There is no admission charge to enter Homewood Central Park for the event, but to ride and play on the attractions an unlimited attractions wristband ($10) must be purchased. Proceeds from this years Back to School Bash will benefit the Homewood High School Band and the Homewood Soccer Club.
Homewood Central Park
3pm – 7pm

Hikes for Tykes – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
A member of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens educational staff will take pre-school children and their families on a hands-on educational adventure through the gardens. Free.
10am

16th Annual Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival
Sidewalk 2014 will take place in the Theatre District of Downtown Birmingham on August 22, 23 and 24. The Alabama Moving Image Association was created to inspire, encourage and support films and filmmaking in Alabama. With eight venues located within Birmingham’s historic Theatre District (featuring the newly restored Alabama Theatre, a 2,200 seat movie palace built by Paramount in 1927), spontaneity rules the schedule of Sidewalk attendees. Low-priced weekend passes provide easy access to Sidewalk venues, encouraging attendees to seek out new films and sample programming they may not otherwise see. The result is a crowd rich in diversity and united in a hunger for new film.
For pricing and a schedule visit their site..

Wake up with the Animals – Birmingham Zoo
Have you ever woken up to a lion’s roar? Now is your chance during this once in a lifetime experience to wake up with the animals at the Zoo! Enjoy up-close and personal animal interactions, watch a special Wildlife Show and savor a delicious breakfast at the Kudzoo Café. Space is limited, so you must register *Wake Up With the Animals is an additional cost
$17: non-member adult (Ages 13 and up)
$14: non-member child (Ages 2-12)
$9: member adult (Ages 13 and up)
$6.50: member child (Ages 2-12)
7:30am

Bart’s Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
Folded Foil Fun! In August, we will head to the sculpture garden to check out Craig Wedderspoon’s Quilted Vessels and then make our own! A vessel is an object that holds something. Go see what Craig Wedderspoon’s Quilted Vessels hold, and create your own piece using pieces of foil. What will yours hold?
11am – 1pm

UniverSoul Circus – Legion Field
COME SEE THE MOST INTERACTIVE CIRCUS IN THE WORLD! Our show is a highly interactive combination of circus arts, theater, and music that spans genres including Pop, Classic R&B, Latin, Hip Hop, Jazz and Gospel. It embraces and celebrates the unique and familiar aspects of pop culture globally by bringing them center stage with a cast of international performers. UniverSoul Circus is rated as one of the top three circuses in America.

Our fresh approach to family friendly live entertainment has earned us a coveted spot as one of Ticketmaster’s top ten most requested family events. We hope you gather friends, family and relatives, and come out to our show. Purchase your tickets today!
12p, 4p and 7:30

Storytime Barnes and Noble – Summit
Hometown Hero Storytime featuring Cars and Trucks and Things That Go! Stories, guest readers and activities will round out the fun.
11:00 am.

Family Tours, What does a Warrior Wear – 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?
10:30

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 August 24th:

16th Annual Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival
Sidewalk 2014 will take place in the Theatre District of Downtown Birmingham on August 22, 23 and 24. The Alabama Moving Image Association was created to inspire, encourage and support films and filmmaking in Alabama. With eight venues located within Birmingham’s historic Theatre District (featuring the newly restored Alabama Theatre, a 2,200 seat movie palace built by Paramount in 1927), spontaneity rules the schedule of Sidewalk attendees. Low-priced weekend passes provide easy access to Sidewalk venues, encouraging attendees to seek out new films and sample programming they may not otherwise see. The result is a crowd rich in diversity and united in a hunger for new film.
For pricing and a schedule visit their site..

UniverSoul Circus – Legion Field
COME SEE THE MOST INTERACTIVE CIRCUS IN THE WORLD! Our show is a highly interactive combination of circus arts, theater, and music that spans genres including Pop, Classic R&B, Latin, Hip Hop, Jazz and Gospel. It embraces and celebrates the unique and familiar aspects of pop culture globally by bringing them center stage with a cast of international performers. UniverSoul Circus is rated as one of the top three circuses in America.

Our fresh approach to family friendly live entertainment has earned us a coveted spot as one of Ticketmaster’s top ten most requested family events. We hope you gather friends, family and relatives, and come out to our show. Purchase your tickets today!
3:30p and 6:30p

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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: Tornado Alley, Great White Shark, To the Arctic, Island of Lemurs: Madagascar

Birmingham Zoo:

Lorikeet Aviary – Our Lorikeet Aviary has more birds than ever! Zoo guests can feed these exotic birds every day. You and your family will see these birds’ behavior as they eat nectar out of your hand.
Weekends 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

PELICAN FEEDING – A great way to see our pelicans in action is to witness them eating their favorite treats near the pelican boardwalk.

RHINO ENCOUNTER – Embark on an African adventure and experience one of the world’s most extraordinary animals, the Southern White Rhino. Watch from only feet away as our zookeepers engage in hands-on interaction with the animals inside their African-themed exhibit. Don’t miss this exciting encounter with one of the largest mammals on the planet!
Weekdays: 3pm – 3:30pm
Weekends: 11:30am – Noon & 3pm – 3:30 pm

GIRAFFE FEEDING – This up close and personal animal encounter is a memory you and your family will have for a lifetime.
Weekday: 11am – Noon
Weekends: 10am – 11am  & 2pm – 3pm

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.

52 New Things, 2014. Week 32

Posted on by Angie

Here’s what’s new with only 20 (!!) weeks left in this year!!

Angie-
I’ve decided that now with the kiddos back in school it was time to get back to working out. I learned about Lauren Fitz YouTube videos and have been dancing off some calories this week. I love that I can do it from my house so no one has to witness my less than spectacular dance movies. But the best part is, it’s so fun you’ll catch yourself doing more routines than you set out to do, getting in a really good work out. Check her out on Youtube and let me know what you think!

Kristen-
My New Thing this week is Breakfast from Big, Bad, Breakfast. My first visit will definitely not be my last!

Shirley-

Free Bike Helmets through Kohl's ThinkFirst Alabama

Posted on by Angie

According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, bike accidents crash-land more kids in hospital emergency rooms than any other sport. In fact, kids ages 5 to 14 get hurt more often than bikers of any other age! Every day, about 1,000 kids end up in hospital emergency rooms with injuries from bikes – like broken bones or brain concussions. About one kid every day dies of these injuries. Others suffer lifetime problems, like limping or brain damage.

The Kohl’s ThinkFirst Alabama program, a brain and spinal cord injury prevention program located at Children’s of Alabama, will distribute free bike helmets and promote back to school safety at select Kohl’s locations throughout the state this month.

The helmet giveaways are scheduled in Prattville, Birmingham and Madison:

    • Thursday, August 14, from 9 a.m. until noon at 1460 Cotton Exchange, Prattville, 36066
    • Wednesday, August 20, from 9 a.m. until noon at 1100 Inverness Corners, Birmingham, 35242
    • Saturday, August 23, from 9 a.m. until noon at 7630 Highway 72, Madison, 35758

The helmet giveaway is sponsored by Kohl’s ThinkFirst Alabama program, a part of the National Injury Prevention Foundation dedicated to preventing brain, spinal cord and other traumatic injuries through the education of individuals, community leaders and the creators of public policy. Through the generosity of Kohl’s Cares, the helmets are fitted for and then given to the first 100 children at each event.

 

photo credit: <a href=”https://www.flickr.com/photos/saltygrease/501542863/”>SaltyGrease</a> via <a href=”http://photopin.com”>photopin</a> <a href=”http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/2.0/”>cc</a>

Multiplicity: Separation Anxiety

Posted on by Angie

School is underway for most families and for a parent of twins or multiples starting Kindergarten, this can cause some serious anxiety. For the tiny humans and the parents.

Something that families of multiples have to deal with that other families don’t, is the decision to separate their multiples or keep them together when they enter Kindergarten. If you’re even given the choice. I wasn’t

I was in a panic when I learned that our school automatically separated multiples. I googled, I talked to teachers, other Moms of Multiples and decided that splitting them up was going to be the absolute worst thing ever in the world. I wasn’t against separating them eventually, say 1st or 2nd grade. But to me, Kindergarten seemed to be to soon. All I could think about was all of the changes they were going to experience and how overwhelming it would be for them. A big new school, going all day, every day of the week and doing it all while being a part from each other, for the first time in forever.

At one point I even considered petitioning the school board to keep them together. I was thisclose to becoming “that” Mom.  But some how I was able to get myself in check and I’m so thankful that I did because not being together in the same class was actually a very good thing for my girls.

I’ve read articles that stated many sets of twins look back on their separation as a traumatic experience, but from the Moms that I’ve spoken with and with us, it just wasn’t the case. We also prepped our girls heavily for what to expect, so that on the first day of school there were no surprises. They knew where each others classroom was, and thankfully would see each other in the lunch room and on the playground.

It was a very cool experience to watch them grow as individuals throughout the year. They developed their own friendships and became more independent. The one who was typically more comfortable letting her sister do the talking, came out of her shell. They developed their own interests and didn’t just give the same answer the other one did when answering questions about what they liked most about their day/class/activities.

While I have to say I was pleasantly surprised, be prepared for some obstacles. Teachers are all very different and have very different teaching styles. While the curriculum may be the same, the way it’s presented in class may be very different. Homework loads can vary and the way they discipline may not match up. Class parties x’2, that are typically at the same time can create conflict, especially if you’re a parent that likes to get involved. Bonus pressure if you have a singleton also in school and you have to split your time 3 ways. Field trips and birthday parties are tricky, and if you can figure out a way to keep up with which friends belong to which twin, please… Let me know! I never did manage that very well.

All in all our experience was a positive one and I hope that continues to be the case. So, if you’ve sent your multiples off to separate classes this year, take a deep breath, Mama.. They’re going to be ok.. If not better for it in the long run!

 

 

Birmingham Events Calendar: August 10th – August 17th

Posted on by Angie

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

We know you’re all busy with back to school events and getting the kiddos settled back into a routine but if you have some extra time this week, here are some events for you to squeeze in! Happy Back to School Time, Have a great week

Sunday August 10th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Huntsville Stars
3:00pm

$5 Fun Days – Birmingham Zoo
Visit the Zoo during $5 Fun Days and take advantage of discounted admission!

The Great Water Balloon Jollification – Crestwood Park
Fun with water balloons to beat the summer heat.  We will have some pre-filled balloons ready to go, but make sure to bring some of your own as well.
2pm – 4pm

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Monday August 11th:

Holy Inappropriateness! We couldn’t find any special events happening in the ‘Ham today. Make sure to check our list below for fun exhibits happening daily at our local attractions.

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Tuesday August 12th:

Family Tours, What does a Warrior Wear – 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?

What Does a Warrior Wear
10:30

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Come see how Pete gets ready for school! We’ll read some Pete the Cat books and talk about being cool!
11am

Storytime for All Ages – Homewood Public Library
Story Time
10:30am

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Wednesday August 13th:

Family Story Time with Mr Mac – North Shelby Library
Storyteller Extraordinaire – Come join Mr Mac and his musical storytime complete with puppets! All Ages, no registration required.
10:45am

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Thursday August 14th:

Holy Inappropriateness! We couldn’t find any special events happening in the ‘Ham today. Make sure to check our list below for fun exhibits happening daily at our local attractions.

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Friday August 15th:

Movies in the Park – Veterans Park
Last movie of the summer! See Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2.
All you’ll need to bring is a blanket or chair to sit on, and some snacks and drinks.
Movies begin around 8pm

BAAMFest – Avondale Park
BAAMFest aims to offer patrons of all ages an unforgettable musical and cultural arts experience! Join us in emerging Avondale for more than 25 live performances, short films, artistic work created by area youth, special events and a tribute to the Legends of Muscle Shoals, featuring Bad Brad & the Sipsey Sims with special guests David Hood, Kelvin Holley and Will McFarland. Programs are scheduled to include live music from all genres, including jazz, blues, rock, hip-hop, reggae, neo-soul, classic soul, electronica and Latin merengue.
Find more details on the 2014 Avondale Music & Art Festival on Facebook: BAAMfest! Band lineup, event schedule and VIP pass/ticket information available at www.baamfest.com!
6pm – 11pm

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Saturday August 16th:

$5 Fun Days – Birmingham Zoo
Visit the Zoo during $5 Fun Days and take advantage of discounted admission!

BAAMFest – Avondale Park
BAAMFest aims to offer patrons of all ages an unforgettable musical and cultural arts experience! Join us in emerging Avondale for more than 25 live performances, short films, artistic work created by area youth, special events and a tribute to the Legends of Muscle Shoals, featuring Bad Brad & the Sipsey Sims with special guests David Hood, Kelvin Holley and Will McFarland. Programs are scheduled to include live music from all genres, including jazz, blues, rock, hip-hop, reggae, neo-soul, classic soul, electronica and Latin merengue.
Find more details on the 2014 Avondale Music & Art Festival on Facebook: BAAMfest! Band lineup, event schedule and VIP pass/ticket information available at www.baamfest.com!
3pm – Midnight

Hikes for Tykes – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Go on a magical storytelling hike with Fresh Air Family’s Verna Gates. Are there fairies and dragons in the Gardens? We will be on the lookout! Fairy house building to follow. Free.
10am

Homewod Library Foundation Block Party – Homewood Library
The Homewood Library Foundation Board is hosting a First Annual “Block Party” Fundraiser. Tickets go on sale July 21st in the Homewood Public Library Adult Services Department. Proceeds will benefit the Homewood Public Library.
$20 per meal ticket
$2 hot dogs on site
4pm – 7pm

Bart’s Books – Birmingham Museum of Art
This month, Bart has selected Ed Young’s I Doko: The Tale of a Basket.
11am

Storytime Barnes and Noble – Summit
Get ready for school with Pete the Cat! We’re hosting a Pete the Cat and the New Guy
11:00 am.

Family Tours, What does a Warrior Wear – 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?

What Does a Warrior Wear
10:30

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 August 17th:

$5 Fun Days – Birmingham Zoo
Visit the Zoo during $5 Fun Days and take advantage of discounted admission!

BAAMFest – Avondale Park
BAAMFest aims to offer patrons of all ages an unforgettable musical and cultural arts experience! Join us in emerging Avondale for more than 25 live performances, short films, artistic work created by area youth, special events and a tribute to the Legends of Muscle Shoals, featuring Bad Brad & the Sipsey Sims with special guests David Hood, Kelvin Holley and Will McFarland. Programs are scheduled to include live music from all genres, including jazz, blues, rock, hip-hop, reggae, neo-soul, classic soul, electronica and Latin merengue.
Find more details on the 2014 Avondale Music & Art Festival on Facebook: BAAMfest! Band lineup, event schedule and VIP pass/ticket information available at www.baamfest.com!
3pm – 11pm

Birmingham Barons – Regions Field
vs. Chattanooga Lookouts
6pm

—————————————————————————————

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: Tornado Alley, Great White Shark, To the Arctic, Island of Lemurs: Madagascar

Birmingham Zoo:

Lorikeet Aviary – Our Lorikeet Aviary has more birds than ever! Zoo guests can feed these exotic birds every day. You and your family will see these birds’ behavior as they eat nectar out of your hand.
Weekends 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

PELICAN FEEDING – A great way to see our pelicans in action is to witness them eating their favorite treats near the pelican boardwalk.

RHINO ENCOUNTER – Embark on an African adventure and experience one of the world’s most extraordinary animals, the Southern White Rhino. Watch from only feet away as our zookeepers engage in hands-on interaction with the animals inside their African-themed exhibit. Don’t miss this exciting encounter with one of the largest mammals on the planet!
Weekdays: 3pm – 3:30pm
Weekends: 11:30am – Noon & 3pm – 3:30 pm

GIRAFFE FEEDING – This up close and personal animal encounter is a memory you and your family will have for a lifetime.
Weekday: 11am – Noon
Weekends: 10am – 11am  & 2pm – 3pm

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.

52 New Things 2014. Week 31

Posted on by Angie

Even in the craziness of back to school we managed to do something new!

Angie-
My new thing this week is the discovery of an addicting game. I’m not much of a “gamer,” sure I got sucked into Candy Crush for a quick minute but this one is killing me. It’s called 2048 and it’s a tile game. Some kids were playing it on their ipods at a swim meet a few weeks ago then I decided to give it a try and well, now I’m hooked. I even got Shirley hooked and can’t believe she didn’t use that as her new thing!

Kristen-
My new thing is registering my first baby for second grade- don’t see how it can possibly be time for that already!

Shirley-
My new thing is coconut milk ice cream from Whole Foods…. Amazing!

Did you do anything new this week?

Mother of All Consignment Sale Lists for Birmingham. Fall 2014

Posted on by Angie

Consignment Season in Birmingham is here! Many sales are registering now. If you’re planning to sell, check the registration dates, many fill up quickly!

Make sure to check back often as we will update with any sales we learn about in the coming weeks. If you know of a sale in Birmingham that you would like to have listed, please contact us and we’ll get it added!

Alabaster:

Renewed Threads
10903 Highway 119, Restore Building, FUMC of Alabaster

September 12th, 8:00 a.m. til 6:00 p.m.
September 13th, 8:00 a.m. til 2:00 p.m.
Site Info

Gardendale:

Kingdom Kids Consignment
Gardendale Mt.Vernon United Methodist

August 18h  – August 23rd
Open to the Public 20th– 23rd
Sale Info

Homewood:

Lil Lambs Consignment
Trinity United Methodist –

Open to the Public:

Friday, September 5th – 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Saturday, September 6th – 9:00 AM – 12 Noon
NOTE: Volunteers can shop early at our Preview Sale at 4 PM Thursday, Sept. 4.
Sale Info

Hoover:

Bargains on the Bluff
Bluff Park United Methodist –

Open to the Public:
Friday, September 12th, 9am – 6pm
Saturday, September 13th, 9am – 2pm Discount Day
Sale Info

Kids Corner Children’s Consignment
Mountain Chapel UMC

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Wednesday, September 10th 9am – 3pm
Wednesday, September 10th 5pm – 8pm HALF PRICE ON SELECTED ITEMS!!!
Sale Info

TNT Sale
Riverchase United Methodist –

Seller sign up begins Monday, August 11.
Open to to the Public:
Friday, September 19th – 9am to 6pm
Saturday, September. 20th- 8am to 1pm.
Select items are 30% off on Saturday.
Sale Info

Hueytown:

Twice Blessed Sale
Garywood Assembly of God –

Public Sale: TBA

Sale Info

Irondale:

Kids Market and Mom
**NEW LOCATION! Will now be located in the old KMart  in the Eastwood Shopping Plaza.
7845 Crestwood Blvd (Hwy 78),
Irondale, AL

Receiving (by Appt)
Tuesday. September, 9th, 9am – 7pm
Wednesday. September 10th, 9am – 7pm

Regular Receiving:

Saturday, September. 13th, 7am – 6pm
Monday, September. 15th, 9am – 6pm
Tuesday. September. 16th, 9am – 6pm
Wednesday. September. 17th, 9am – 3pm
(Clothing items only on the 17th)

Public Sale:

Tuesday, October. 7th, 9am – 8pm
Wednesday – Saturday, October. 8th-11th, 9am – 6pm

CLOSED Sunday. October 12th

Monday – Wednesday, October. 13th-15th, 10am – 6pm
Thursday – Saturday, October. 16th-18th, 9am – 6pm
Site Info

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

Open to the Public:
Public Sale
Friday, August 22, 2014
5:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Half-Price Sale
Saturday, August 23, 2014
8:00 am to 12:30 pm
Only items marked with an asterisk (*) or a “Y” next to the word discount are sold at half-price.
Sale Info

Mountain Brook:

Sweet Repeats Children’s Consignment
Mountain Brook Community Church

Friday, September 12th, 9am – 6pm
Saturday, September 13th, 9am – Noon

*Saturday several items will be reduced to 1/2 price!!
Sale Info

Oak Mountain:

Giggles and Grace
Asbury United Methodist

Receiving: Wednesday September 3rd and Thursday September 4th

Open to the public:
September 5th 8am – 6pm
September 6th – 8am – 1pm
Sale Info

Trussville

Growing Kids
Trussville Methodist Church –

Volunteer/Consignor Registration is Monday, August 11th, at 10am
Consignor Registration is Tuesday, August 12th, at 10am

Friday, September,  26th 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Saturday, September, 27th 8:00 am – 2:00 pm
(Saturday is 50% off many items in sale)
Sale Info

Vestavia

Whale of a Sale
Vestavia Hills Untied Methodist Church
Thursday, September 25th, 5pm – 9pm
Friday, September 26th  9am – 2pm
Most items 1/2 off 1pm – 2pm
Sale Info

Market on the Mountain
Student Center, Mountaintop Community Church –

Friday, September 12th, 9am – 6pm
Saturday, September 13th 9am – 2pm
Sale Info

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

Parenting with a PhD: Arguing

Posted on by Angie

How many times have you tried selling this one to your kid: “We only use nice words when talking to our friends.” HA! I’m willing to bet you don’t practice this 100% of the time. Naturally, the people we’re most likely to use less-than-nice words with are the ones we’re closest to (including our kids – not that they learned it from us, of course). But, sometimes people make us mad. And sometimes that happens in front of our kids, especially when the disagreement is with our spouse or partner. Often parents worry that if they argue in front of their kids, it’ll lead to worries about divorce. And yes, loud, scary arguments can cause those kinds of fears. Fortunately, there is a fine art to arguing in front of your kids, making it possible to disagree while maintaining love and respect for the other person. In fact, showing your kids that you and your spouse can work out your differences calmly and (relatively) kindly will actually help your children solve problems they’re having with others, too. Here are some suggestions:

First, agree ahead of time with your spouse or partner that you will “fight fair” if the kids are in the general vicinity. Consider having a “safe word” (yes – I know the connotations here…) so one of you can let the other know that things are getting too heated and you need to take the disagreement behind closed doors. If you can’t both agree on this, you have to have a general policy against arguing around your children. But, consider working towards being able to talk things out when the kids are present – it’s a good learning experience for them and may actually force you and your spouse to be more respectful and more focused during the argument.

Second, make sure everyone is calm (and not hungry, tired, or needing to pee) before the discussion. If not, show how you calm down by taking a deep breath (not an exaggerated huff – everyone knows the difference!) before you start talking. If that doesn’t work, tell your spouse that you need a 5-minute break before talking. Be sure that you’re not having a complex argument while driving and turn off electronics so you aren’t distracted. Check that there’s enough time to have the discussion and that no one is going to be late to anything as a result.

Third, state your case clearly and concisely. People lose track of (and interest in) what we’re saying after around three phrases so don’t go on longer than that. Consider using the 3Fs to tell your spouse what’s going on:

Fact – Tell your spouse what is happening/has happened factually. Leave out the color commentary. “You told me that you would wash the dishes yesterday and you didn’t.”

Feeling – Describe how you feel. Remember that your spouse didn’t make you feel that way and it’s important that you don’t imply that his behavior caused your feeling. “I feel frustrated when I see the dirty dishes piling up.”

Fair Request – Ask your spouse clearly what you’d like him/her to do. Understand that your initial attempt at a fair request might be rejected so have a back-up at the ready. “Will you please wash them now?” If that doesn’t fly, “Please tell me when you’ll have time to wash them so I can decide whether to go ahead and do them myself.”

Fourth, when it’s your spouse’s turn to address the issue, demonstrate active listening. Note that active listening involves making eye contact, turning your body towards your partner, nodding, and possibly reflecting back things you hear. It does not involve eye-rolling, interrupting, scoffing, or angry facial expressions – you know, all the things you hate for your kids to do while you’re talking to them.

Fifth, keep going back and forth with this discussion until you find a compromise you can both feel O.K. about. If it’s clear you’re not going to find middle ground, you have to decide to table to discussion or agree to disagree. If you’re both good with it, try to have some kind of physical contact – a hand squeeze, a hug, etc. – at the end of the argument.  The kids may feel like having a hug, too.

Finally, once the argument is over, your work isn’t quite finished. It’s helpful to check in with the kids on what they witnessed and how they’re feeling about it. Spend a few minutes debriefing. Explain each person’s side and why you were having trouble agreeing. Describe how you both first calmed down before you talked it out. Point out how the 3 Fs helped you get your point across and how you and your spouse worked together to find a compromise you could both live with. You might even highlight how the compromise was not quite what you wanted and not quite what your spouse wanted but was pretty good for both of you. Allay any fears that the argument means you don’t love each other or are getting a divorce; although, chances are these won’t come up if everyone managed to stay calm.

Important note: It’s absolutely crucial that your kids not witness serious fights that involve yelling, screaming, cussing or physical violence. In fact, if these things characterize arguments you and your spouse are having, it’s time to get help immediately. If you feel like your partner is being emotionally or physically abusive, you can contact the Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence at 1-800-650-6522 for help in making a plan. If the fights are ugly but no one is being physically injured, seek a psychotherapist skilled at working with couples. Ask a trusted friend or your general practitioner for a referral.

About this column: Send your parenting- and kid-related questions my way and I’ll tell you what I can: parentingwithaphd@gmail.com 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.

About Kristen:

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

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