Hippity Hoppity Easter's on It's Way

Posted on Wednesday, April 9, 2014 by Angie

By: Scott Butler

As an Adult I have so many fond memories of Easter. Dying eggs, hunting for the “Golden” Egg (which doubled as a panty hose container) in Grandma’s Tulip patch, which always sent Grandma into a tizzy, and of course the annual visit to the Legendary Super Creepy Mall Bunny.

I’ve always loved Easter as it represents a great and special time of year. Now as a Dad, I always want to take my kids memories to a whole new dimension and I want to share with them the things I cherished when I was their age. Including the Mall Bunny.

Hippity Hoppity Hooray, the Easter Bunny is on the way. Anyone that knows my youngest knows that when we walk anywhere, year ’round we must sing “Here comes Hardy Cottontail…” So as we entered the mall for the obligatory creepy mall bunny photo, we’re happy, we’re singing, we’re focused. We’re dressed in our Sunday best and as most parents know, just getting us all there is a major accomplishment.

We approach the line which snakes around past the toy store and is 30 deep. We join the crowd of grumbling, overstressed looking parents and fidgity, impatient kids to await our turn with the White, Furry Felt bundle of fun. We aren’t there long before my sons realize we’re standing in front of a toy store. “Focus,” I tell them.. “Not much longer…” But no matter how hard I try, or the fact that the Grand Poo Bah of Holiday Mascots is just feet away, the allure of the little stuffed bunny in the window of the toy store is way more enticing. But being the always prepared Boy Scout of a Dad that I am, I was prepared. A basic brown bag of M & M’s. Victory is mine. Let the Bribery begin.

As the line slowly inches forward my M&M rationing skills pay off as I manage to feed 2 boys one bag and time it perfectly with our turn. We’re next. As we get ready to jump up and take our picture, I do a quick once over.. Shirts still on, only one shoe off, M&M’s that melted on their face and hands as well as in their mouth.. Not too bad, I think to myself, as I use my own shirt to wipe their faces. We’re all set. It’s time to meet the Easter Bunny. As we step up, my inquisitive middle child continues to bombard me with questions:

How does he Jump?
How does he dye all of those eggs?
Is this the Real Easter bunny or just a helper?
How tall is the Real Easter Bunny?

My reply? Ask the bunny.

I wasn’t sure how my kids would react when they came face to face with the bunny himself so I did what every good parent does, shoved them into the lap of a creepy stranger dressed in a bunny suit and yelled “Smile,” hoping that I could get just one “good” picture of them. I wasn’t planning to be greedy. I didn’t need smiles, just wanted them all looking my way with something less than a horrified expression on their faces.

50 pictures later and with a line full of aggravated Moms behind me, I got what I came for. My trophy, my picture, the unforgettable memory I have created for them. Or was it for me?

Either way, it was completely worth every second.

Enjoy these examples of Creepy Mall Bunnies:

About Scott:

Scott is a Local Real Estate Agent and BirminghamDaddy to 3 active boys. He juggles his busy schedule of listing houses with running his boys to their sports du jour. Scott is also the sports photographer for Homewood Highschool and many other local events, if you see him around, say cheese!

Week of the Young Child: McWane Science Center

Posted on Monday, April 7, 2014 by Angie

Join the McWane Science Center as they celebrate the week of the young child!

Art! Music! Movement! Storytelling! Science! There will be unique programs and demonstrations for the littlest visitors (kindergarten and younger). Kick of the week on Sunday, April 6 with special events and activities.

Here is a list of their full schedule:

Monday, April 7: Little Labs: Magnets (10:30 am), Storytime Science (12 pm), Arty Facts (1:30 pm), Slice of Science (3 pm)

Tuesday, April 8: Little Labs: Dinosaurs (10:30 am), Arty Facts (12 pm), Slice of Science (1:30 pm), Storytime Science (3:30 pm)

Wednesday, April 9: Little Labs: Machines & Robots (10:30 am), Storytime Science (12 pm), Slice of Science (1:30 pm), Arty Facts (3 pm)

Thursday, April 10: Little Labs: Exploring Matter (10:30 am), Arty Facts (12 pm), Slice of Science (1:30 pm), Storytime Science (3 pm)

Friday, April 11: Get Rhythm (10:30 am), Villager Yoga (11:30 am), Get Rhythm (12:30 pm), Village Yoga (1:30 pm)

Price is included in the cost of Admission to the McWane Center.

Birmingham Events Calendar: April 6th – April 13th

Posted on Sunday, April 6, 2014 by Angie

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

Sunday April 6th:

ETC Presents Vulcan Underpants – Railroad Park
Come get some fresh air and fresh comedy! Join ETC for our special brand of comedy – made up on the spot with your suggestions. Fun for your kids or your grandparents. Heck, we love the whole family! In case of inclement weather, we will update Facebook, Twitter and voicemail at (205) 687-5233.
3pm – 5pm

Whispers from the Past A Native American Experience – Aldridge Gardens
This spring take a trip back in time to rediscover the culture and contributions of Native Alabamians.

Native American life will take shape through demonstrations of flintknapping, cooking and hunting weapons, and activities like leaf pounding, beading, corn grinding, gourd painting and pottery. Children can try their hands at games and activities.

Hear the sounds of drums and flutes and the highlight of the day – three dance performances by the Sylestine Legacy, a family of Alabama Coushatta Native Americans—including a black-light performance at sunset.

Vendors will sell fry bread, Indian tacos and roasted corn as well as coins, antler carving and knives, beaded jewelry, carved shell jewelry and items for children including flutes and beaded jewelry.

$5 donation for visitors 18 and older
$3 passport is available for those school-age children wanting to participate in take-home crafts
11:30am – 7:30pm

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Monday April 7th:

Monday Movie – Homewood Public Library
Join us for a cool movie and some hot popcorn!
3:30pm

Tot Time with Ms Eve – Avondale Library
Celebrate No Housework Day, by visiting the library. We’ll romp, stomp, and tromp through Mrs. Eve’s storytime. Geared for 2 to 4 years olds with a caregiver. 24-hour advanced notice of attendance required.
9:30am or 11am

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Tuesday April 8th:

Evenings at Emmet O’ Neal Library
It’s the program you know and love, now a part of our new Evenings @ EOL series. Enjoy dinner at 5:30 pm and a live performance at 6:00 pm
Birmingham Children’s Theatre presents “Little Miss Muffet and the Lost Sheep”

Juggler Ron – Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest
Juggler Ron Anglin He may not juggle chainsaws, but Ron Anglin will juggle just about everything else! A light supper will be served at 6:00, followed by Ron’s program at 6:30 pm.

Family Tours – Birmingham Museum of Art
FREE // Meet in the Main Lobby
Join us for an in-gallery family experience! Children aged 3 – 8 and their adult companions are invited to join Museum educators to explore our collection, discover activities that make looking at art fun and exciting, and create new family memories about art.

No reservations required. Family Tours are also available by appointment for groups of 10 or more children aged 3 – 8. For more information or to schedule a tour, call 205.254.2964.
10:30am

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

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Wednesday April 9th:

Birmingham Barons Home Opener
Barons open the 2014 Regular Season schedule at Regions Field, taking on Jacksonville
7:05pm

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

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
This is one of our favorite classic children’s stories. Don’t let your child miss out on a book that is sure to be shared again and again.
11am

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Thursday April 10th:

Birmingham Barons
vs Jacksonville
7:05pm

Mommy and Me Storytime – Homewood Public Library
Story Time for our younger patrons (birth to 30 mo.) and their lap partner.
10:30

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Friday April 11th:

Friday Night Fireworks with the Birmingham Barons
Vs Jacksonville. After the game enjoy a A spectacular fireworks show synced to today’s hottest music.
7:05pm

Marshmallow Madness – Hoover Public Library
Can you paint with a marshmallow? Can you make a marshmallow critter or make a marshmallow popper? Join us while we go crazy with marshmallows. Registration begins March 21. Grades 1-3
4pm

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Saturday April 12th:

Birmingham Barons
vs Jacksonville
6:30pm

Max and Ruby’s Bunny Hop – Hoover Public Library
Ruby has planned a wonderful party for everyone, and Max will be there to make sure nothing goes according to plan! All ages
10:30am

TEMPO – A Family Fun Festival – Railroad Park
free public event, planned to offer families of all ages with unique entertainment, healthy food choices, bicycling activities, games and community resources, will engage the community in building awareness and promoting strong, healthy families. Plan now to bring the entire family to enjoy a day outside and a variety entertainment in beautiful Railroad Park.
10am – 2pm

Farm Day – Birmingham Zoo
Take a look at Alabama’s agricultural heritage with a fun and educational peak into daily farm life during this annual event in the Junior League of Birmingham – Hugh Kaul Children’s Zoo and Alabama Wilds. Watch horseshoe making demonstrations, create rural-themed arts and crafts, examine several antique tractors and farm equipment, watch a goat show and much more!
Free with the price of admission.
9am – 5pm

Fossil Hunt – Walmart Sumiton (meeting place)
Giant creatures crawled out of a swamp in Alabama millions of years ago, leaving footprints for modern fossil hunters. The site is considered the most important vertebrate trackway site of its age in the world. On Saturday, April 12, you can dig for these rare fossils where scientists study ancient sea creatures. Our families have found museum-quality pieces on Fresh Air Family digs!

Fresh Air Family has scheduled two fossil hunts at 9:00 am and one at 1:00 pm at the Union Chapel coal mine, near Sumiton. The event is sponsored by the Kids 1st Club of America’s First Federal Credit Union and the Forestdale office of America’s First.

Participants are asked to bring their lunch with them on the hike. The first session will meet at 9:00 am at the Wal-Mart in Sumiton. The second session will meet there at 1:00 pm

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! We will create Woven Wonders!
11am – 1pm

Cartoons and Cereal – Homewod Public Library
Saturday morning cartoons and cereal. Dry cereal only, available until 10:45am.
10am – Noon

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.

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Have you ever seen a mother duck leading her ducklings? This is a classic children’s story that never grows old in the telling.
11am

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Sunday April 13th:

Birmingham Barons
vs Jacksonville
3pm

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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, Titans of the Ice Age

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.

Giveaway: Mommy and Me Time Stroller Class

Posted on Saturday, April 5, 2014 by Angie

Spring has Sprung and beach vacations are just around the corner. If you’re looking to take off those last few pounds of baby weight or just looking to exercise and get some fresh air, here’s your chance. And the best part is, you bring the tiny human with you!

A class for moms of all fitness levels! This 45 minute class focuses on interval training with the use of bands, body weight, and your child’s stroller! Following a brief warm up, we’ll use the strollers to perform lunges and arm and leg strengthening exercises, with brief jogging and sprinting segments in between. The outdoors allows us to run relays with the strollers and other mothers, enjoy the fresh air, and give the children constant stimulation with the passing scenery. The end of class will include core strengthening and a cool down, which is when the children can come out of the strollers and help you stretch! Join us for a class that’s full of variety in the beautiful spring weather!

*We provide the resistance bands; you bring the stroller (any kind will do!), water, a towel, and your little one!

To help get you motivated, BirminghamMommy is giving away a free week of classes for you to try it out.

How to enter:

Leave a comment on this post letting us know you want it.

Head over to their FB page and thank them for the giveaway.

We’ll draw a winner Sunday, April 6th at 6pm. Free classes must be redeemed by the week of April 21st.

Stroller Class will meet every Tuesday and Friday at 1030am at Homewood Park. 8 week session starts April 8th and ends May 30th!

The cost is $125 for the entire session or $12/per class.

Other classes they offer:

Monday/Wednesday/Thursday – Mommy Fit at OLS in Homewood at 9:20am

Monday – Mommy Fit at St Mark UMC in Vestavia at 5:15pm

Tuesday/Thursday – Mimi & Me Bootcamp at Shades Crest Baptist in Hoover at 8:05am (this is for the grandmothers!)

Saturday – Pilates or Zumba (on a rotating basis) at OLS in Homewood at 9:20am

52 New Things 2014, Week 13

Posted on Saturday, April 5, 2014 by Angie

What’s new this week?

Angie-
This is a new thing I didn’t choose to try, nor do I recommend. Last weekend my financial life was completely hacked. The credit card company believes that it originated from an app on my phone that was attached to my credit card because I like to pay with my phone. From there is snowballed into over $1000 in unauthorized charges from my checking account, and my credit card. With another $700 that the credit card company flagged as fraud. There were multiple hacks into my online cell phone account, and an attempt at my gmail. What I have learned from this experience is that people are evil and you can lose days on the phone with customer service trying to reign in a mess like this. I will also no longer attach any of my debit or credit cards to cell phone apps. No matter how much I love a company or how convenient it is.

Kristen-
My New Thing for this week is a movie at Carmike Lee Branch. Lots of fun but could’ve done without the drunk (possibly high?) guy who talked the whole movie.

Try anything new you’d like to share?

Birmingham Area Easter Egg Hunts 2014

Posted on Friday, April 4, 2014 by Angie

Alabaster/Pelham

231 Weatherly Club Drive
April 19th, 10am
Sponsored by First Baptist Pelham

Avondale

Avondale United Methodist Church
Join us in the Avondale Park Rose Garden for a community cookout and Easter egg hunt.
Following worship on April 13, all are invited to join Avondale United Methodist Church in the Avondale Park rose garden for a church and community cookout. After we enjoy good food and friendship, the kids will scour the park for Easter eggs.
The rose garden is on 40th Street, behind the library.

The cookout will begin at about 12:15; the egg hunt will begin at about 12:45. All in the community are welcomed!

Calera

Cottontail Express – Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
Hop aboard for a ride to Peter Cottontail’s meadow. Join in the fun as we hunt for Easter eggs – you might win a prize! Jumpstation, temporary tattoos, coloring, and sandbox provide lots of fun! Bring your camera to take photos with Peter Cottontail

Sat April 12 10:00 am, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm
Sun April 13 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm
Sat April 19 10:00 am, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm
Ticket Information Here

Clay

Clay Public Library
This year’s hunt will be held on Sunday, April 13th, at 2:00 p.m., on the property adjacent to the library. Join us for prizes, snacks, and a visit from the Easter Bunny! Don’t be late or the eggs will all be gone!

Gardendale

East Gardendale Baptist
Saturday, April 12th – 10am

Gardendale First Baptist Church
An Exceptional Easter Egg Hunt
April 19, 2014 // 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Fellowship Hall // South Campus

This event is for persons of all ages with special needs. Lunch will be provided.

Helena

The annual city wide Easter Egg hunt will be held Saturday, April 12th at the Helena Elementary.
**Please note Location change due to flooding at the Amphitheater
9:30am – 11:00am

Homewood

Dawson Memorial Baptist
Egg hunts, games, rides, inflatables & food in Dawson’s backyard. Saturday April 12, 11am – 1pm

Homewood Park
The Homewood Easter Egg Hunt is for toddlers up to ten years of age. Children will hunt for eggs with children of their own age group. There is also a section for children with special needs.

Location: Homewood Patriot Park

Date: Saturday, April 12th, 2014

Time: 11:00am

Don’t be late as it does not take long for all of the eggs to disappear!

Hoover

Green Valley Baptist Church
Dig out that basket! Join us for a breakfast fellowship before we trek across the street to find eggs. A fun morning you don’t want to miss!
April 19th, 10am

Station Church/Southeastern Bible College
Tons of eggs, lots of candy, inflatables, face painting, a train ride, food and more! There will be a separate hunt for preschoolers! All free!!! Plus, this year we are hosting a craft fair with over 25 vendors for you to shop and purchase specialty items. From crafts to jewelry to clothing, there truly will be something for everyone to enjoy!!!
Sunday, April 13th
3pm – 6pm

Leeds

Outlet Shops, Grand River
Hippity Hoppity Hooray – the Easter Bunny is on his way! The Easter Bunny fun will begin on Saturday, April 19^th from 12-5pm under the atrium!

Bass Pro Shops
Here comes Peter Cottontail! Come out and get in the spirit of Easter with FREE photos of you and your family with the Easter Bunny. FREE Crafts for the kids to enjoy (while supplies last). Free East Egg Hunt!

Easter Egg Hunt –April 12th – 13th and April 19th – 20th, 2pm for 1 hour
Registration begins at 1:30pm at the main entrance. Find 5 eggs and return to registration for candy.

Pictures with the Easter Bunny – Receive a FREE 4 x 6 photo April 12th – 13th/April 19th-20th

April 12th – 13th/April 19th-20th
Saturdays and Sundays – 11am – 4pm

April 14th – 17th
Monday – Thursday – 6pm – 8pm

April 18th
Friday – 2pm – 7pm

Make a Bunny Craft (while supplies last)
Create a Bunny Frame or Scratch Art Egg Craft
Friday, April 18th – 4pm – 7pm
Saturday and Sunday April 19th and 20th – 1pm – 4pm

Color a Plastic Egg
Saturday and Sunday
April 12th and 13th
1pm – 4pm

Montevallo

Orr Park
Meet the Easter Bunny and join your friends for an Easter egg hunt on the rolling lawn of Orr Park. Games, crafts, and prizes available. 10-11 am.

Moody

Community Presbyterian Church
Family Fun Night will be on Sunday, April 13th.
A dinner together and also host a community-wide egg hunt.

Mountain Brook

City of Mountain Brook
The merchants of Crestline Village are organizing the annual Easter Egg Hunt for April 19 at 10 a.m. The hunt will take place in the field across from the Emmet O’Neal Library, 50 Oak Street.
The Easter Bunny will be available for photos after the egg hunt.

Trussville

City of Trussville
5th Annual Trussville Parks and Recreation Flashlight Easter Egg Hunt April 5th – 6:30pm

Hunt begins at dark and is for ages 2-8 years old.
5000 toy and candy filled eggs plus face painting, Easter Bunny, Fire Trucks, Sparky the fire dog, cotton candy, and a moon walk!!

Other Special Events:

McWane Science Center
Egg-citing Eggs-periments
DATE: Saturday, April 19
COST: Included in cost of admission to the museum, FREE for members

Join us for an eggciting, eggstreme, hands-on fun eggstravaganza. Scramble over to the Science Center before Noon the Saturday before Easter. Take your egg to the flight prep area where Science Center staffers have lots of items and eggspertise to help you construct a vehicle that may or may not allow your egg to survive a two story fall!

Hoover Public Library
Max and Ruby’s Bunny Hop
Ruby has planned a wonderful party for everyone, and Max will be there
to make sure nothing goes according to plan! FREE EVENT
April 12th, 10:30am

*Please note that these dates and hunts are subject to change or cancellation without notice to BirminghamMommy.com. We will do our best to update any changes we learn about in advance. If the weather is ify, it’s best to double check before heading out.

Bullying and Adults: What's the Big Deal?

Posted on Wednesday, April 2, 2014 by Angie

By Kristen Berthiaume:

Recently, there’s been a lot of focus in the news on bullying in adults, especially on extreme cases from the NFL like that of Richie Incognito (this is his last name – really) and Jonathan Martin, which is believed to have involved obscene and racist voice mails, death threats, and financial extortion (Bullying isn’t a strong enough word to describe what went on there, but I digress). Now, I think we all suspect that some NFL (and NBA, NCAA, NHL…) players are less-than-gentlemanly in the locker room away from cameras (or sometimes, not so much away from the cameras as directly in to them – I’m looking at you, Richard Sherman) but, when does the way adults treat other adults cross the line from good natured teasing to full-on bullying and why should we even care?

I got into a debate about this very issue with some friends recently. One asked: Shouldn’t adults understand that some people aren’t going to be nice to them and just suck it up? Other friends felt like bullying in any form is harmful and not O.K. – whether it’s happening to the 4”8’ kid next door or to a 300lb NFL linebacker. After all, for better or worse, young kids look up to their sports “heroes” – even when those “heroes” are acting like jerks. Is it O.K. for these men to call their teammates names, threaten them, physically assault them, etc.? They’re big guys, after all – they can take it. Right?

So, you’re probably asking: “How does this relate to me and my family? I’m not in the NFL and I’ve never extorted money from anyone!” If you’re convinced that bullying doesn’t exist in your world, try this as an experiment. Check out one of the FB Trading Pages where people are trying to sell items locally. Scroll through and find something that you find…um…less-than-attractive. Now, check the comment section. If the item’s been up for a few minutes, there’s bound to be a little bit of snark nestled among the legitimate interest. The unkind comments are usually included for the amusement of other people (sometimes with “helpful” tags for friends who might also enjoy the laugh) and the writer seems unaware that the seller will read what’s been written. How would you feel if you were the seller? Hurt? Embarrassed? Of course, you’d get over it and move on after a few minutes but this kind of experience might leave you feeling separated from others versus part of a community. Yes, people are allowed to make whatever comments they want on these pages, within reason, but should they?

Perhaps you’ve been the victim of more serious adult bullying. A boss who was always on your case, despite your best efforts, or a romantic partner who belittled you instead of loved you. Maybe you’re in a toxic friendship where you’re expected to take whatever abuse is heaped on you in the name of being “supportive.” Being repeatedly victimized by bullying can lead to serious mood and anxiety issues in adults. Not only that, it can make us more susceptible to being victimized in the future by lowering our standards for how we should be treated and decreasing our competence in handling social situations. Maybe worse yet, when our children see that we are being victimized, they may come to believe the bullying situation to be a normal way of interacting. In the future when they are confronted with bullying, they’ll be less likely to stand up for themselves and their friends, or to ask an adult for help.

Some of you have probably been on the reverse side of this – sending the message in subtle or not-so-subtle ways that a certain person is no longer welcome or trying to intimidate a co-worker into not applying for the promotion you want. Sometimes, adults bully because they aren’t sure how to get what they want any other way – fear can drive us to resort to social tactics that worked for us growing up, even if they’re clearly inappropriate in adulthood. Aside from the fact that this kind of behavior is hurtful to others and drives a wedge between us, it also sets a much more lasting example for our kids than anything else we give lip service to (“Do unto others…” “Play nice…”). When our children see us use bullying to get what we want, we’re giving them permission to do the same and setting them up for frustration and social problems.

There are behaviors many of us have engaged in that, while not technically “bullying,” could also be encouraging bullying in our kids. This happens when we say negative things about others behind their backs (but in front of our kids), encourage our offspring to avoid certain kids for superficial reasons, and make harsh judgments about people on TV when our kids are within earshot. These behaviors may well go unnoticed by the actual targets (I really don’t think Miley Cyrus cares what you think about her new lip tattoo) but not by our children. Kids are constantly observing how their parents interact with others – from the bank teller to our spouses. Watching us helps them learn how to act. Scary thought? Think about the last five interactions you had. If your child were to copy those, would he make you proud or would he get into trouble? Are there ways you could model more appropriate interactions in front of your kids even if you still need to vent to your adult friends sometimes? (For the record, I do think she’ll come to regret that tattoo…).

If we tolerate bullying or hurtful behavior in our own homes, workplaces, and social circles, we’ll be less likely to recognize it when it’s happening to our kids or when our kids are perpetrating it. We may also be less prone to teach our kids appropriate ways of interacting with others. We can’t tell our kids to treat everyone with respect in between yelling at their soccer coach and complaining over the phone about a teacher. It’s not human nature to be kind and pleasant all the time but we can set the best possible example for our kids and hold in our rants for adult audiences only (that’s what Moms’ Night Out is for, right?!).

Birmingham Events Calendar: March 30th – April 6th

Posted on Sunday, March 30, 2014 by Angie

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

Sunday March 30th:

Trussville Spring Carnival – Magnolia Park
The Trussville Chamber of Commerce is holding its annual Spring Carnival. The event is being held in Magnolia Park next to First Baptist Church of Trussville on Chalkville Road. The carnival features rides and activities, as well as festival foods.
1pm – 5pm

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Monday March 31st:

Tot Time with Ms Eve – Avondale Library
Come celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day with stories and songs. Maybe we’ll find that pot of gold! Geared for 2 to 4 years olds with a caregiver. 24-hour advanced notice of attendance required.
9:30am

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Tuesday April 1st:

LEGO Mini Build – Riverchase Galleria
Learn how to build a cool mini model, and take it home – for free! Quantities are limited and offer is good while supplies last only.
LEGO Helicopter
Begins at 5:00 pm until supplies last.

No reservations required. Family Tours are also available by appointment for groups of 10 or more children aged 3 – 8. For more information or to schedule a tour, call 205.254.2964.
10:30am

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

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Wednesday April 2nd:

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
What do you think happens when the Pigeon finds a hot dog? Join us for another fun adventure in Mo Willems’ Pigeon series.
11am

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Thursday April 3rd:

Mommy and Me Storytime – Homewood Public Library
Story Time for our younger patrons (birth to 30 mo.) and their lap partner.
10:30

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Friday April 4th:

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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Saturday April 5th:

NObesity Expo – Regions Field
In an effort to combat childhood obesity in Birmingham’s youth, the City of Birmingham Mayor’s Office Division of Youth Services (DYS) and the Junior League of Birmingham will host its YOUTH FIRST NOBESITY EXPO + 5K FOR KIDS at Legion Field on Saturday, April 5, 2014.

Beginning at 8:30 am, the young and young at heart can participate in a FREE festival that is sure to have something for everyone.
• 1-mile Fun…
• Kids Fun Zone
• Health Screening
• Games
• And much, much more!

8:30am – 11:00am

Clay Days Festival – Clay Ball Park
TOP NOTCH entertainers and events planned for the whole family. FREE ADMISSION – FREE PARKING.

The event will be at the Clay Ball Park on Old Springville Road. First class Arts and Crafts Vendors from all over the South and in Alabama and locally from Clay will be exhibiting the finest merchandise! Come take a look!

Children’s Activities with live entertainment and Carnival Rides! YUMMY FOOD is exactly what you will get! After a stroll visiting the vendor booths, sit down near the stage and enjoy the music and dancers while you relax.
9am – 5pm

Curtain Call Ball – Birmingham Children’s Theatre
Birmingham Children’s Theatre’s Patrons Board is excited to present an enchanted family evening to raise funds and awareness for the education and outreach programs that Birmingham Children’s Theatre has provided for more than 12 million children in the past seven decades.
Curtain Call Ball is a great way for you and your family to support BCT and have fun at the same time! Appropriate for kids of ALL ages, your family will be transported to a magical place in a night full of entertainment, food, and fun. Join us in costume for a night your family is sure to remember! Many of BCT’s most famous and adored characters will be in attendance and ready to spend time with you and your loved ones. Curtain Call Ball will be filled with music, a live and silent auction, show-inspired food, art activities, and interactions with costumed characters culminating with a performance showcasing BCT productions.

Family of Four: $125

Individual Adult: $50

Individual Child: $20

Cartoons and Cereal – Homewod Public Library
Saturday morning cartoons and cereal. Dry cereal only, available until 10:45am.
10am – Noon

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.

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
It’s bath time, and Pigeon won’t go willingly! Join us for a reading of The Pigeon Needs a Bath!, followed by more stories and pigeon activities.
11am

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Sunday April 6th:

Whispers from the Past A Native American Experience – Aldridge Gardens
This spring take a trip back in time to rediscover the culture and contributions of Native Alabamians.

$5 donation for visitors 18 and older
$3 passport is available for those school-age children wanting to participate in take-home crafts
11:30am – 7:30pm

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

Birmingham Zoo:

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

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:

Railroad Park:

Southern Museum of Flight:

52 New Things 2014, Week 12

Posted on Saturday, March 29, 2014 by Angie

You would think that Spring Break would be a great time to try some new things, turns out it was kind of a slow week for us here and we struggled a little to come up with something. Apologies, it’s not as exciting as “FurryCon.”

Angie-
My New Thing this week is, wait for it….. A new flavor of Vitamin Water. Not that they put out a new flavor I just decided to venture outside of my go-go mixed berry go to and try a XXX. I have to say I liked it. Not as much a my norm but something I can add to the rotation occasionally.

Kristen-
My New Thing for the week was building a “room” complete with working ceiling fan, with my daughter, Check out www.roominatetoy.com. She was very into this cool engineering toy geared towards girls. Bonus: It was much easier to find than any of the Frozen toys!

Shirley-
My New Thing for this week was driving through a water spout. It was no fun and I don’t recommend it.

What did you do new over Spring Break?

Practical Hacks for Parents: Remembering the Meds

Posted on Thursday, March 27, 2014 by Angie

As parents we all know how hard it can be to remember the simple things on a daily basis. Car keys, purse, diaper bag… baby. (we kid, we kid… Kind of.) But add a sick child and medicine into the mix and you’re bound to forget a dose or tw0 on those 10 days of antibiotics.