Medical Minute: Depression

Posted on Friday, May 31, 2013 by Angie

We all know someone who has suffered from depression. Depression affects every race and gender. It is a whole-body illness, involving the body, mood, and thoughts, and affects the way a person eats and sleeps, feels about himself or herself, and thinks about things. It is not the same as being unhappy or in a blue mood. Nor is it a sign of personal weakness or a condition that can be willed or wished away. People with a depressive illness cannot merely “pull themselves together” and get better.

Without treatment, symptoms can last for weeks, months, or years. Appropriate treatment, however, can help most people who suffer from depression. During any one year period, nearly 19 million American adults suffer from depressive illness. Yet, treatment can alleviate symptoms in nearly 80 percent of cases.

What contributes to depression in women?

Women experience depression about twice as often as men. Many hormonal factors may contribute to the increased rate of depression in women–particularly such factors as menstrual cycle changes, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), pregnancy, miscarriage, postpartum period, perimenopause, and menopause. Many women also face additional stresses such as responsibilities both at work and home, single parenthood, and caring for children and aging parents.

Many women are also particularly vulnerable after the birth of a baby. The hormonal and physical changes, as well as the added responsibility of a new life, can be factors that lead to postpartum depression in some women. While transient “blues” are common in new mothers, a full-blown depressive episode is not a normal occurrence and requires active intervention. Treatment by a sympathetic health care provider and the family’s emotional support for the new mother are prime considerations in aiding her to recover her physical and mental well-being and her ability to care for and enjoy the infant.

What are the different types of depression?

Depressive disorders come in different forms, as do other illnesses, such as heart disease. Three of the most prevalent types of depressive disorders include the following:

Major depression. A combination of symptoms (see symptom list) that interfere with the ability to work, sleep, eat, and enjoy once pleasurable activities. These disabling episodes of depression can occur once, twice, or several times in a lifetime.
Dysthymia. Long-term, chronic symptoms that do not disable, but keep people from functioning at “full steam” or from feeling good. Sometimes, people with dysthymia also experience major depressive episodes.
Bipolar disorder (manic-depression). A chronic, recurring condition that includes cycles of depression and elation or mania.

Within these types, there are variations in the number of symptoms, their severity, and persistence.

What are the symptoms of depression?

The following are the most common symptoms of depression. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. In general, nearly everyone suffering from depression has ongoing feelings of sadness, and may feel helpless, hopeless, and irritable.

The American Psychiatric Association suggests that professional help is advisable for those who have four or more of the following symptoms continually for more than two weeks:

Noticeable change of appetite, with either significant weight loss not attributable to dieting or weight gain
Noticeable change in sleeping patterns, such as fitful sleep, inability to sleep, early morning awakening, or sleeping too much
Loss of interest and pleasure in activities formerly enjoyed
Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” mood
Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
Restlessness, irritability
Decreased energy, fatigue, being “slowed down”
Feelings of worthlessness
Persistent feelings of hopelessness
Feelings of inappropriate guilt
Inability to concentrate or think, indecisiveness
Recurring thoughts of death or suicide, wishing to die, or attempting suicide (Note: Individuals with this symptom should receive treatment immediately!)
Melancholia (defined as overwhelming feelings of sadness and grief), accompanied by the following:
Waking at least two hours earlier than normal in the morning
Feeling more depressed in the morning
Moving significantly more slowly
Disturbed thinking–for example, severely depressed people sometimes have beliefs not based in reality about physical disease, sinfulness, or poverty
Physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain

Treatment for depression

Specific treatment for depression will be determined by your health care provider based on:

Your age, overall health, and medical history
Extent of the depression
Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures, or therapies
Expectations for the course of the disorder
Your opinion or preference

Generally, based on the outcome of evaluations, depressive disorders are treated with medication or either psychotherapy or cognitive behavioral therapy, or a combination of medication and therapy.

You can also help yourself. Depressive disorders can make a person feel exhausted, worthless, helpless, and hopeless. Such negative thoughts and feelings make some people feel like giving up. It is important to realize that these negative views are part of the depression and typically do not accurately reflect the actual circumstances. Negative thinking fades as treatment begins to take effect. In the meantime, consider the following:

Set realistic goals in light of the depression and assume a reasonable amount of responsibility.
Break large tasks into small ones, set some priorities, and do what you can as you can.
Try to be with other people and to confide in someone; it is usually better than being alone and secretive.
Participate in activities that may make you feel better.
Mild exercise, going to a movie, a ball game, or participating in religious, social, or other activities may help.
Expect your mood to improve gradually, not immediately. Feeling better takes time.
It is advisable to postpone important decisions until the depression has lifted. Before deciding to make a significant transition – change jobs, get married or divorced – discuss it with others who know you well and have a more objective view of your situation.
People rarely “snap out of” a depression. But they can feel a little better day-by-day.
Remember, positive thinking will replace the negative thinking that is part of the depression and will disappear as your depression responds to treatment.
Let your family and friends help you

Pinspired Recipe: Parmesan Potatoes

Posted on Thursday, May 30, 2013 by Angie

This is too easy to even count as a “recipe,” but I’ll go ahead and call it that. If you’re looking for a fast and delicious weeknight side dish, try this!

Use small potatoes- wash them and cut them in half long ways.

In a baking dish, melt 1/4 cup of butter, then put a thin layer of grated parmesan and sprinkles of garlic salt.

Place the potatoes cut side down. (The skin should be showing.)

Place in 400 degree oven for 45 minutes, then cool for 5 minutes. (Make sure to cool or they’ll stick to the pan.)

Voila! Serve with some sour cream to dip it in and enjoy!

For more of our favorite Pinterest Finds, follow our boards!

Parenting with a PhD: Putting Scary Dreams to Bed

Posted on Wednesday, May 29, 2013 by Angie

By: Kristen Berthiaume, PhD

It’s the beginning of summer and you’re too busy having fun or trying to keep track of which camp your kid goes to today for a long article (also, I have a newborn so there’s that). This one will be brief.

If you’re like 90-something % of Americans (not an actual statistic – I made that up), you don’t get enough sleep. Being woken up by a screaming, blubbering child who just had a nightmare only compounds the problem. Next time your kid tells you he can’t sleep because of a bad dream, try this technique. Have him draw a picture of the figure, object, or situation in his dream that scared him. Keep in mind it may seem weird or silly. For example, I have a distinct memory of having a nightmare around age five in which a hedgehog (and there is no evidence I even knew what one looked like) was about to jump off (do hedgehogs jump?) my dresser onto my head. Terrifying. If your child is too young to create an actual likeness of the nightmare, have him describe it and you draw it. Don’t add a lot of detail yet and draw in pencil or pen only with no color.

Now, talk about how you’re going to make the object in the picture seem less scary and ask your kiddo for ideas. Use bright and pastel colors. Add non-threatening features like silly braids that stick up, googly eyes, an oddly shaped nose, and tiny feet. Throw on some silly accessories like over-sized bowties, mittens (especially to cover scary claws or weapons), curling purple eyelashes, and ridiculously tall hats. For example, if my hedgehog had been wearing a fluffy yellow dress and bonnet, I would have welcomed her to jump on me because – hey, cute hedgehog! Draw in a thought or speech bubble that has the figure thinking or saying something really goofy. For settings that scared your child (e.g., being alone in a dark forest), add soft white clouds, pretty rainbows, and brightly colored birds. Have your child imagine soothing sounds or music she might hear there. Once you have your picture, give a happy, silly name to the object (e.g., Little Lady Hedgehog) or setting (e.g., Happy Rainbow Forest) and write that at the bottom. To expand the technique a little further, make up a funny story together about the figure or setting filled with lots of very un-scary goings on.

Essentially, this technique takes the “bite” out of what your child fears most about the dream and lets her participate in writing the next chapter. A kinder, gentler chapter. Once she gets the hang of this method, the two of you can imagine together the silly version of whatever scared her, instead of actually having to get out pencil and paper. Now, go have a great summer and try to avoid that dream where you took your kid to the wrong camp and now you can’t find the right one and your cell phone doesn’t work. And, also, you’re naked.

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.

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 six-year-old and newborn daughters and three-year-old son.

Get Your Kids Moving This Summer

Posted on Tuesday, May 28, 2013 by Angie

For many kids, summer means sleeping late, pigging out and sitting in front of the TV. Adding physical activity to kids’ summer routines helps battle obesity and improves their concentration, memory and behavior, according to University of Alabama at Birmingham(UAB) experts.

Sandra Sims, Ph.D., and Donna Hester, Ph.D., physical education experts and associate professors in the Department of Human Studies teamed up to share tips to help parents encourage children and adolescents to achieve the 60 minutes or more of daily physical activity recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

Want your kid to be active, get active yourself – “Parents are great role models for their children,” said Sims. “A physically active parent is a great example that often leads to children who follow this lead.”

Parents should make physical activity part of the families’ daily practices, she said.

Walking and biking are examples of great aerobic activities that can be done together.”

Get out in the backyard, yours and your city’s – Explore your backyard with games and/or good old fashioned unstructured play. Sims recommends trying the free, online geocaching treasure hunt game. You can check it out at www.geocaching.com.

Also, use this time of year to explore your city’s outdoor attractions. Sims suggests hiking in state parks, biking along trails and exploring the zoo.

“And, while you’re out, make sure your little ones consume plenty of water or low-sugar beverages for hydration,” Sims said. “And wear sunscreen for protection.”

Play with a goal in mind – Hester suggested planning some type of activity that works on muscular strength, using your child’s own body weight, at least three days a week.

“Younger children enjoy climbing on playground equipment or pretending to move like various animals,” she said. “Older children are capable of standard exercises such as pushups and crunches. To keep them motivated, see how many they can do in a minute, and then gradually increase the repetitions over the summer.”

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends 12,000 steps per day for children and adolescents, so Hester suggests getting pedometers for the entire family and creating a chart to post daily steps.

Do not just splash around, try water play with purpose – Taking a dip in the pool could turn into a variety of fun and beneficial exercises.

“Many exercises that children can do on land can be done in the water,” Sims said. “You can walk or jog, do jumping jacks, slide, skip or hop. You can also play team sports like volleyball, basketball and polo.

Get your gamer motivated – Mastering a video game is fun, but does not give you the daily physical activity your body needs. Hester encourages activities that make you stand instead of sit.

“The activities on the Wii can be a good rainy day alternative, but playing the actual game is better,” she said.

Many sports video games are somewhat sedentary in nature.

“Set some time limits for your gamer,” Hester said. “And, if your kids like to play interactive dance and fitness video games, adjust the setting to the level that will achieve the greatest amount of body movement.”

To structure or not – Play does not always have to be structured, according to Sims.

“Unstructured play has great value,” she said. “This allows children to pursue creativity in their play.”

Summer is a great time for this.

“Some children have been limited to playing games with rules either on a team or on a video game,” Sims said. “Allowing children freedom to choose activities and rules not only allows creativity, but it also increases enjoyment of play.”

Fun is the key word – Sims and Hester agree that helping children find a physical activity that they enjoy is important.

“All children are not competitive, so only providing competitive sports choices is not the answer,” Sims said. “Let children explore numerous types of physical activities, so they can find one or more activities in which they can participate and enjoy doing.”

For more information, Sims and Hester recommend going to the CDC website for National Physical Activity Guidelines.

About UAB

Known for its innovative and interdisciplinary approach to education at both the graduate and undergraduate levels, the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is an internationally renowned research university and academic medical center and the state of Alabama’s largest employer with some 23,000 employees and an economic impact exceeding $5 billion annually on the state. The five pillars of UAB’s mission include education, research, patient care, community service and the economic development. UAB: Knowledge that will change your world. Learn more at www.uab.edu.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) is a separate, independent institution from the University of Alabama, which is located in Tuscaloosa. Please use University of Alabama at Birmingham on first reference and UAB on all consecutive references.

Birmingham Events Calendar: May 26th – June 2nd

Posted on Sunday, May 26, 2013 by Angie

School’s Out For the Summer! Reading programs are heating up and Summer Movies are kicking off this week!

We hope you’re enjoying your Memorial Day Weekend! When you’re finished eating your BBQ, sit down and plan out your first full week of Summer with some of these fun events we found happening around the Magic City!

Happy Summer! Have a great week!

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

Sunday May 26th:

Alabama Phoenix Festival – Cahaba Grand Conference Center
Second annual festival for creative minds. A Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Gaming, Comic Book, and Costume Convention

Primary programming will take place in 1 hour, 15 minute long blocks with 15 minute breaks between each block. Tracks include: Sci-Fi and Fantasy Media, Comics, Paranormal, Alternate History, Costuming, Star Trek, Star Wars, Sci-Fi and Fantasy Literature, Science and Engineering, Anime and Manga, and Horror, as well as an Art Show, Exhibit, Comics Corner, Gaming Activities, and LEGO® Expo. Members are also encouraged to participate in the Masquerade and Costume Contest.

Primary programming will take place in 1 hour, 15 minute long blocks with 15 minute breaks between each block.
day and weekend memberships will be available at the door.
Children under 8 get in free with an adult membership purchase.
$50 for ages 15+
$30 for ages 8 to 14
1pm – 10pm

Memorial Weekend – Birmingham Zoo
Come celebrate Memorial Day weekend at the Zoo! Experience the Red Diamond Sea Lion Splash Show, which features an even closer look at this aquatic species and showcases new behaviors from the Zoo’s California sea lions like back flips, high jumps and a balancing act. Take a prehistoric journey through time at the Zoo’s new Dino Discovery exhibit*, cool off in the Splash Pads, take a ride on the train*, enjoy the Wildlife Show and experience all the Zoo has to offer.

In honor of Memorial Day weekend, all active, disabled and retired military personnel and their dependents can enjoy FREE admission to the Zoo with proof of military I.D.

*Additional cost applies.

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Monday May 27th:

Happy Memorial Day!

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Tuesday May 28th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Park
Barons take on the Smokies
50 Cent Hotdog Night
7:05pm

Hippo Adventures – Birmingham Museum of Art
Meet at the Information Desk outside Bart’s ArtVenture! Join us for a new in-gallery family experience! Children aged 3 – 8 and their adult companions are invited to join Museum educators to explore Hip, Hippo, Hooray!, discover activities that make looking at art fun and exciting, and create new family memories about art and hippos.

No reservations required. Hippo Adventures 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

Summer Reading Kickoff – Clay Library
Join us for our 4th annual summer library program! This year’s theme is “Dig into Reading,” and we have lots of fun events planned for the whole family, whether you are participating in the reading portion of the program or not! Everyone is invited; we want the whole community to get involved, so help us spread the word! Prizes will be awarded to children, teens, and adults who are checking out library books and reading! Summer events will be held on various days and times in order to give everyone a chance to participate. A schedule of events is available on our facebook page and our web site.

Sign-up BEGINS Tuesday, May 28th, and continues throughout the summer. Feel free to call or e-mail us with questions.
9am – 7pm

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Wednesday May 29th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Park
Barons take on the Smokies
12:30pm

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us as we read Chick ‘n’ Pug. What will happen when chick tries to get pug to be his friend. We will make something fun and have something delicious to drink from the Cafe.
11am

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 May 30th:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Park
Barons take on the Smokies
7:05

Brookwood Live! Colonial Brookwood Village
Live Music On the Street – Featured Band: Fountain City Players
5pm – 9pm

Relax By the Tracks – Railroad Park
Make plans to join us at the next Relax By The Tracks. Free music from Sanyasi and Terry Ohms and food and drinks available for purchase at George’s Boxcar Cafe.

Sponsored by the Railroad Park Foundation Junior Board, American Society of Landscape Architects, B-Metro, Birmingham Mountain Radio, Five Points South Neighborhood Association, and Glen Iris Neighborhood Association.
5pm – 8pm

Summer Reading Kickoff – Irondale Public Library
Read Along with Irondale Public Library this Summer! Registration is underway. Join us for our kick off party.

You can register (if you haven’t already) for summer reading, enjoy crafts, snacks and a short film.
5pm

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Friday May 31st:

Birmingham Barons – Regions Park
Barons take on the Smokies
Friday Fireworks
7:05

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Saturday June 1st:

Bob Sykes Blues and BBQ – DeBardeleben Park located in downtown historic Bessemer
The entire family can enjoy a variety of blues musicians from local to national talent. Free giveaways, children’s corner, activities for kids and adults, delicious food, drinks and desserts will be available. Bring a chair or blanket and set up your spot for the day.
1pm – 9pm
Admission Info – $8 before event, $12 at the gate, 12 and under are free

Ross Bridge Spring Market
Come out to the Ross Bridge Village Green and enjoy the day shoping with the Craft, Art, Produce, Handmade, Retail Item, and Pet Vendors! Live Music all day. Kid’s Activities. Leashed, Friendly Pets are welcome.
9am – 2pm

SliceFest – Slice Pizza Lakeview
SliceFest offers non-stop family fun from noon to 4:00 pm and a jammin’ party on through the night. Kids can have their own fun by playing on the moon bounce, getting their faces painted and choosing a balloon animal, while the adults enjoy beer samplings paired with Slice’s unique pizzas at ‘The Beer Experience.’ The aroma of fresh stone pizzas will be floatin’ around and the beer will be flowin’ all day as guests can purchase Slice’s mouth-watering pies, paired perfectly with local brews.

This Slice-tastic celebration will feature a full line up of musical entertainment from 1:00 pm – midnight, including Ponderosa, Rollin’ in the Hay, Kristy Lee, Banditos, Bad Brad & the Sipsey Slims, Wildflowers, Ophelia Festival, Expressions and the ‘impassioned singing, riff-based Southern rock’ of JJ Grey & Mofro as headliner.

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to SliceFest’s partnering charities, Alabama Forever and Suki Foundation.
Noon – Midnight

No reservations required. Hippo Adventures 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

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! June is for Animals // Hippo mania is still going on at the BMA!
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.

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us as we read Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae. Come have fun! It’s never too late to learn something new!
11am

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Sunday June 2nd:

Vulcan’s Birthday Bash
Make plans to attend the BIGGEST birthday bash in Birmingham! Vulcan may be the world’s largest cast iron statue, but he still needs help blowing out his birthday candles! On Sunday, June 2, Vulcan Park and Museum will host a festive outdoor community celebration offering fun activities for the whole family! Admission will be charged and includes admission to the party, Vulcan’s Observation Tower, Museum and a special exhibition in the Linn-Henley Gallery. Log on to www.visitvulcan.com for additional party details.
$3 all ages 5+.
4 and under and Vulcan Members are FREE!
noon – 4pm

Summer Reading Kickoff – Vestavia Library
The “Dig Into Reading” program in the Children’s Department at the Vestavia Hills Library in the Forest will begin with a huge Kick-off party at the library. There will be face painting, ice cream, an Egyptian Mummy Tomb Mystery, digging for gold and gemstones, and Dr. Magical Balloons, a zany storyteller who uses balloon sculptures – and willing audience members – as his story props. Everyone who signs up for the summer reading program that day will get a special goodie bag filled with coupons and treats courtesy of the generous merchants in the area.
2pm – 4pm

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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: Flight of the Butterflies, Titians of the Ice Age

Unearthing Alabama’s Ice Age – through December 31st, 2013
McWane Science Center is home to Alabama’s second largest natural history collection. Made up of over 500,000 specimens and objects pertaining to the natural history of the state, this important collection focuses on the preservation, education, and research of Alabama’s rich biodiversity and paleobiodiversity. One of the more significant subsets of the collection is Alabama’s largest collection of Late Pleistocene faunal remains – or Ice Age fossils.

Made up of nearly 10,000 cataloged specimens, the McWSC Pleistocene collection contains a unique diversity of fauna that not only includes those native to North America, but migrants to the state from both South America and the Old World. This collection includes mammals, both extant and extinct, reptiles, amphibians, birds, fishes, and botanical remains collected from both cave and stream localities in the state. Extinct mammals represented in the McWSC collection include mammoths, mastodons, giant beavers, saber-toothed cats, giant armadillos, tapirs, peccaries, and giant ground sloths.

This spring, visitors will have an opportunity to view some of the fossils in the collection with a new exhibit titled — “Unearthing Alabama’s Ice Age.” This exhibit will not only highlight many of the Ice Age animals from the McWane Science Center Collection, but will highlight and dispel many of the common misconceptions surrounding the Ice Age in the state. The goal is for visitors to have a better understanding and appreciation for this time in Alabama. For example, guests might learn that Alabama was on average only five degrees colder than today, glaciers did not reach farther south than southern Illinois or that all the Ice Age animals did not go extinct at the end of the Ice Age. While the largest animals, such as mastodons, giant ground sloths, and saber-tooth cats died out, nearly all the animals that are living in Alabama today were also around in the Ice Age.

The Unearthing Alabama’s Ice Age Alabama display is located in the City Gallery on Level 2 of the museum. It is included in the cost of admission to the museum and free to members.

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.

Book Review: The Big Bad Wolf Goes on Vacation

Posted on Friday, May 24, 2013 by Angie

Just in time for Summer this is the perfect book to add to your library!

Doesn’t a wolf deserve a vacation, too? Bernard, the clever, cookie-munching hero of Delphine Perret’s award-winning book, certainly thinks so. So when he learns that his pal Louis is vacationing by the sea with his grandpa, Bernard wants to go too. Soon they’re off on a wacky road trip that ends with the perfect day on the beach. This much-anticipated sequel to the award-winning The Big Bad Wolf and Me is every bit as delightful as the first…and well worth the wait.

This was such a cute, silly and funny book it left me and my girls (ages 7 and 5) giggling at the light hearted tale of a Big Bad Wolf that just wants a vacation. It’s easy to read, perfectly illustrated and it’s sarcastic clever tone was easy for us to relate to.

It’s perfect for bedtime and has become quite a favorite in our house and is has been requested every night since we got it in the mail.

You can find The Big Bad Wolf Goes on Vacation, by Delphine Perret at Barnes and Noble and Amazon

BirminghamMommy.com received a copy of the Big Bad Wolf Goes on Vacation for free for review purposes. All opinions expressed in this review are our own.

How to Help Oklahoma

Posted on Wednesday, May 22, 2013 by Angie

Seeing the devastation left behind from the tornado in Oklahoma, reminds us so much of the outpouring of support we received from everyone when we were gathering supplies for Tuscaloosa and surrounding areas. We have learned of a few different ways to get supplies to Oklahoma if you’re looking for a way to help. Sending some diapers and wipes may not seem like much, but trust us when we say, it adds up quickly. If you’re looking for a way to pitch in, here are a few options:

H20 for OKC – Magic 96.5 along with WBRC Fox 6 and The Salvation Army will be collecting donated water bottles that will be sent to the Oklahoma City Salvation Army for distribution. Drop off at Colonial Brookwood Village, Macy’s side Located along Lakeshore Drive. Joe Piper Trucking has donated an 18 wheel truck and trailer and provided for it to be transported to Oklahoma City.
Wednesday 6am until the truck is full

Via LIV Birmingham:
Mayor Bell announced that the City of Birmingham will collect items for Oklahoma on Thursday, Friday and Saturday (23rd – 25th) of this week in front of Boutwell at 1930 8th Avenue North. The City will also collect next Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. The hours of collection during the week will be 7:30am until 5:00pm and 10:00am until 4:00pm this Saturday. All items will be transported to the First Baptist Church of Moore, Oklahoma. The City’s partner, Christian Service Mission, will transport. Items needed are : Band aids, gloves, nylon rope, rakes, shovels, rubbing alcohol, personal care items, tarps, air mattresses, wheelbarrows, etc.

For anyone outside of OKLAHOMA wishing to send items to victims of the tornados, KFOR news station is accepting plastic tubs w lids, baby necessities, trash bags, work gloves, shovels, dog/cat food, individually wrapped snacks, Gatorade, and sunscreen. Mail to:

KFOR
444 East Britton rd
Oklahoma City, OK
73114-7515

Salvation Army:
Monetary donations are encouraged by The Salvation Army to help the people affected by tornadoes in Oklahoma. The money will be used to purchase specific needs for the areas rather than items or supplies that may not work at this particular disaster.

Go to www.BirminghamSalvationArmy.org or visit www.SalvationArmyUSA.org or call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769). You may also text the word “STORM” to 80888 to make a $10 donation through a mobile phone; to confirm the gift, respond with the word “YES.”

Toomer’s for Tuscaloosa and 95.3 The Bear in Tuscaloosa will collect gift cards and much needed items at the Wal-Mart and Chick Fil A in Northport.

Other areas in the area will also have drop spots set up for Oklahoma survivors.

BIRMINGHAM- Jefferson State Junior College on Carson Road in the George Layton Building Room 123.

NORTH SHELBY COUNTY: Cahaba Mini Storage will be a drop off location for the N. Shelby County area. 5300 Cahaba Valley Road, Birmingham. Gates will be open M-F 8-6. Place all items in plastic containers or plastic garbage bags.

The items needed are: tarps, flashlights, batteries, toiletries, manual can openers, etc.. Place items in the trailer marked T4T.

MOODY- Fine Pools 2713 Moody Parkway, Moody Phone: 205-640-1840

Target and Walmart Gift Cards are always needed. You can donate directly to the Moore, OK Crowd Rise Fund here: http://www.crowdrise.com/mooreoklahomatornadorelief.

American Red Cross –

Make out your check to “American Red Cross – Neighbors in Need“, and mail it to:

American Red Cross – Neighbors in Need
300 Chase Park South
Hoover Alabama 35244

If you prefer to make a donation on-line, please click here to visit alredcross.org

If you know of a drop spot or additional ways to help out, we’re happy to add to our list. Shoot us an email: contact@birminghammommy.com

The Gray Area: Behind Closed Doors

Posted on Monday, May 20, 2013 by Angie

By: Misty Smith, Ph.D

What DO you do behind closed doors??? Are you playing songs like Rhianna’s “S & M,” or Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get it On?” Or is it more like The Righteous Brothers “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling”?

Are you putting on your granny PJs, brushing your teeth, and rolling over without even so much as a peck on the lips? OR… are you putting the kids to bed early, lighting some candles, and trying a different piece of lingerie out every other night? Do you even sleep behind the same door? Do you go to bed at separate times? One of you fall asleep reading while the other falls asleep on the couch watching something you don’t like?

I have noticed a trend in relationships that tend to go “south” after some years. People stop making romance and intimacy a priority. They are too tired. Work is exhausting. Traffic was a B*#ch. The kids take it all out of them. Believe me when I say that I have been guilty of using these excuses on many occasions. It takes effort… LOTS of effort, to keep the “fires” burning! I am always amazed when women (let’s be honest, it’s usually not the men) withhold ‘relations’ in an effort to get something they want or need. Isn’t that punishing yourself? Don’t you need that too? Even when we go into the event just to please our partner, don’t we get something out of it? Why do we do this to ourselves? If you really don’t get anything out of that, please see a doctor. It is supposed to be a mutually satisfying experience; not just another chore or item to check off on your “to-do” list.

My assumption is that we have gotten ourselves into a rut, don’t know exactly how to improve the situation, or we just don’t feel sexy anymore. I have found that leaving my home helps. Get out of the “family” space. Sometimes it is difficult to think about romance and intimacy in the bed that your kids snuggle in, your dogs sleep in, and where laundry abounds every other day. It is amazing at how quickly your mood can get a little frisky in a sexy hotel room or a nice B&B after a nice relaxing dinner and a little time away from hearing “I WANT CHOCOLATE MILK,” “CAN I GO OUTSIDE,” and “SHE HIT ME.” If you don’t have the money to take yourself away, send the kids away!!! Almost everyone can find a grandparent, aunt, or friend who is willing to let the kids sleepover for one night. If you can manage that, I am going to give you some tips on making your “family” space more romantic, intimate, and inviting. Clean the room! I have trouble doing paperwork at my house because I see everything that needs to be done IN MY HOUSE. The same thing goes for trying to have intimacy in a cluttered bedroom. If your eyes catch the pile of laundry in the corner or the dust-bunnies on the bedpost, you stop thinking about the pleasure and begin thinking about cleaning. That is just not sexy! Once the room is clean, light some candles, buy some fresh flowers to put on the nightstand, and change the sheets. This last one might seem a bit strange, but what is one of the most enticing things in a hotel room? For me it is the fresh clean sheets and blankets that are nothing like those in my bedroom! Have sheets and a blanket that make you feel sexy, and use it on those special nights with your significant other. It takes 10 minutes to change them, but could make for hours of excitement later that night. Start your intimate night with a candle lit bubble bath…men like them when they are the beginning of a happy ending. Follow that (or begin your night) with a massage. Take turns doing this. Buy some sensual scented massage lotion, and have it ready when he gets home. Incorporate other things into your bedroom activities, as well. These tips may need to be prefaced by me saying “don’t knock it til you try it.” Role-playing and toys can be exciting and sexy additions to your intimacy, and provide that much needed kick-start.

Since we are talking about feeling sexy, this is such an important aspect of intimacy for a woman! It is for me anyway! If I eat that second helping of dinner or that extra dessert, I feel overly full and not at all sexy. When you are feeling less than sexy, do something to change that! Feeling sexy and confident make the intimate experience soooo much more exciting and intense! Buy some lingerie that you feel sexy wearing. If you need some trouble spots covered, then find that piece that does the trick.Wear those stilettos or sexy boots that give you that extra boost of confidence! If you need even more of a boost, take a pole dancing class. I have never felt as sexy and confident as I did after a few lessons in a pole dancing class. Some places even offer lap dancing classes for couples. Talk about an awesome sexy date night!!!

The way I see it is like this. One half of a couple usually has “physical touch” as their language of love. If that need doesn’t get met with the other half of the couple, the relationship will suffer. They will get that need met in other ways, and that just might mean that it gets met by someone outside of the relationship. Couples fight less when they are getting their needs met. I would encourage every couple to take one of the Love Languages quizzes that are available. Then do some research on their significant others language of love. For some it might be difficult because their language of love is not at all the same. This is what relationships are all about….GIVE AND TAKE. One doesn’t work without the other.

About this column: Please be aware that this column potentially addresses sensitive issues that might, at times, be considered offensive. Feel free to send your relationship-related questions to my email: mistysmithphd@convenienttherapy.com. 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 in the column, 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 seek counseling services from a professional. You may also join in on the conversations over on her Facebook page.

Misty Smith, Ph.D. is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She owns a private practice, Smith Counseling Services, Inc. She obtained her Master’s degree in Counseling from Jacksonville State University, an Educational Specialist degree from The University of Alabama, and her Doctorate in Counselor Education from Mississippi State University. She provides counseling services in the following areas: couples/marriage, family, stress management, employee assistance services, time management, divorce, and other major life changes. She generally focuses on solution-focused brief therapy, as well as, behavioral and cognitive-behavioral techniques, but feels a flexible approach to therapy is necessary because all people are different. She is a wife of 10 years and a mom to a 5 year-old daughter, a 3 year-old son, a 19 year-old step-son, a 16 year-old step-daughter, and a 20 year-old Russian exchange daughter.

Birmingham Events Calendar: May 19th – May 26th

Posted on Sunday, May 19, 2013 by Angie

Schools are letting out – are you ready for Summer? Have you complied your summer fun lists yet? Now’s the time!

Check out the Neighborhood Block Party at Railroad Park, or the Summer Reading Kick off at Emmet O’ Neal Library.

Memorial Day is coming and the Birmingham Zoo is offering special admission over the weekend and the Alabama Phoenix Festival is back for it’s second year.

Have a great week!

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

Sunday May 19th:

Neighborhood Block Party – Railroad Park
From your block to ours, join us at Railroad Park for our Neighborhood Block Party, with delicious food truck fare, lawn games and outstanding musical talent. Food trucks: Shindigs, Melt, Off The Hook, Dreamcakes, Steel City Pops, Taqueria Guzman Taco Truck, Spoonfed Grill, Avalanche Delights.

Activities: Sanspointe Dance Company, face painting, cornhole, zumba, kite flying. Special thanks to Coca-Cola, Good People Brewing, Pinnacle Imports.
Noon – 5pm

Summer Reading Kickoff – Emmet O’ Neal Library
It’s the annual Summer Reading Kickoff Carnival, with the Thomas Hughes Brinkley Memorial Fun Run at 2:30, and the carnival is from 3:00 – 5:00. You can enjoy game booths and concessions, and you’ll have your first chance to register for the summer reading program. Teens and adults can also sign up for their own summer reading programs at the carnival.

Registration for summer programs will begin the day of the kickoff carnival.

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Monday May 20th:

Toddler Tales – North Shelby Library
A story program for children and a caregiver. Stories, songs, finger plays and crafts make up a lively program designed especially for short attention spans. Best suited for ages 19 months to 3 years. Must Register
9:30am and 10:30am

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Tuesday May 21st:

No reservations required. Hippo Adventures 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

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Wednesday May 22nd:

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us as we read I Want My Mommy! Find out what happens when Arthur has to stay with his grandma for the day. We will have a fun craft and have a treat from the Cafe.
11am

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Thursday May 23rd:

Brookwood Live! Colonial Brookwood Village
Live Music On the Street – Featured Band: The Bicho Bros
5pm – 9pm

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Friday May 24th:

School’s Out Bash – Alabama Adventure
Splash Adventure Waterpark will host the Schools Out Bash. School-aged kids will receive admission to the park for a discounted price of $14.99 each, where they can enjoy the slides, attractions, watch the new Sea Lion Splash Show, and kick off the summer with their friends and family members in a family-friendly water park.
10am – 7pm

Alabama Phoenix Festival – Cahaba Grand Conference Center
Second annual festival for creative minds. A Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Gaming, Comic Book, and Costume Convention

In honor of Memorial Day weekend, all active, disabled and retired military personnel and their dependents can enjoy FREE admission to the Zoo with proof of military I.D.

*Additional cost applies.

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Saturday May 25th:

Salsa Showdown – Pepper Place
24 Frames Per Second, the Sidewalk Film Festival Young Professionals Organization, is hosting Birmingham’s 3rd Annual Salsa Showdown presented by Alagasco. The Showdown is a fundraising competition between local restaurants & catering companies to determine who offers the best salsa, guacamole, queso and specialty dip. Admission will include sampling privileges at each competitor’s station, a ballot for casting an “Audience Choice” vote, Piñata Smash with prizes, kids activities, access to live entertainment, cooking demos, salsa dance & Zumba demos, beverage vending, and the Hot Pepper Eating Contest. A panel of jury members consisting of local personalities will also determine which salsa-maker will get the award for best salsa, guac, queso and specialty dip.
2pm – 6pm

Alabama Phoenix Festival – Cahaba Grand Conference Center
Second annual festival for creative minds. A Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Gaming, Comic Book, and Costume Convention

In honor of Memorial Day weekend, all active, disabled and retired military personnel and their dependents can enjoy FREE admission to the Zoo with proof of military I.D.

*Additional cost applies.

Bart’s Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
Spring into May! This drop-in art program for kids and families features a different gallery activity each month. Stop by to make art with Bart! Be inspired by the weather and craft your own three-dimensional flower still life!
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.

Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us as we read Grow Caterpillar Grow! and you can build a character from the story using Legos. There is limited space, so please call or ask any bookseller about reservations. There will also be a treat from the Cafe.
11am

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Sunday May 26th:

Alabama Phoenix Festival – Cahaba Grand Conference Center
Second annual festival for creative minds. A Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Gaming, Comic Book, and Costume Convention

In honor of Memorial Day weekend, all active, disabled and retired military personnel and their dependents can enjoy FREE admission to the Zoo with proof of military I.D.

*Additional cost applies.

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

The Unearthing Alabama’s Ice Age Alabama display is located in the City Gallery on Level 2 of the museum. It is included in the cost of admission to the museum and free to members.

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:

Homemade Bubbles!

Posted on Thursday, May 16, 2013 by Angie

Summer is coming and for my kids that means a lot of playing in the yard and gallons upon gallons of bubble mix. I’ve tried homemade mixes before and haven’t had too much luck finding one that worked well.

In a desperate attempt to keep the kids happy at a playdate after realizing we were out of the store bought kind, we mixed up this concoction and it worked like a charm. Best part was… I didn’t have to buy a thing!

2 Cups of Water
1/2 Cup of Dish Detergent (Dawn or Joy works best, but all I had was an off brand and it worked great)
2 Teaspoons of Sugar

Stir and refill those bottles! Easy Peasy!

Do you have a no fail solution for bubble making? Leave us a comment letting us know your recipe!