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Mommy Voices: Mothers Who Murder, and the Casey Anthony Verdict

Posted on by Angie

Shock and frustration are what many parents felt last week after learning the not guilty verdict in the Casey Anthony murder trial. Casey Anthony, a 25-year-old Florida mother was accused of the 2008 murder of her 2-year-old daughter, Caylee. Casey Anthony spent the last two years and nine months in jail awaiting her trial as prosecutors worked to build a case against her. Her arrest in October of 2008 came on the heels of her admittance to not knowing the whereabouts of Caylee for quite some time, in addition to a string of lies Anthony fed police about her own possible involvement. Since then, the young mother has been portrayed as a somewhat selfish party girl anxious to return to a life with more fun, and less responsibility—a life without her daughter.

Aside from the images of Casey Anthony drawn by prosecutors and media, her own bizarre behavior somehow seemed evidence enough to brand her guilty of…well, something anyhow. The conjured up nanny (more from the bottomless pit of lies), the nights spent partying while Caylee was apparently missing, and the self-centered, cold demeanor she exhibited in the days following her revealing Caylee as missing. Yet, as we all know, telling lies and making poor decisions doesn’t necessarily mean Anthony was capable of murder. However, the many other odd coincidences do speak volumes, such as not telling anyone her daughter was missing for FOUR weeks, evidence of Caylee’s hair found in the trunk of her car, the horrific and death-like odor emerging from that same vehicle, and finally, the discovery of little Caylee’s badly decomposed body—less than half a mile from the Anthony home. I’m not one to usually judge based on circumstantial evidence, but wow, Casey, how could you NOT be involved in this horrific crime?

As the mother of two small children, one, a daughter the same age as Caylee, I’ve found it especially difficult to follow this story and learn of the brutal manner in which a beautiful, innocent 2-year-old died. I would guess that almost every parent reading this feels the same way. We know of that bond that exists between ourselves and our children, and we know that we’ll do nothing to break it, or extinguish it—no matter how bad life can get. Perhaps that is why so many of us have been so drawn to the details and the emotions associated with the Casey Anthony trial—we simply can’t fathom the idea that a mother who should have shared that same bond with her own daughter might be capable of murdering her. It’s true that every parent experiences the overwhelming and often intense emotions associated with parenting. Maybe once we wanted to walk away from our child when he threw an embarrassing tantrum at the grocery store, or maybe we’ve been angry enough to scream as we discovered red crayon smeared across an entire bedroom wall. Most of us can recall an instance or two when we’ve temporarily lost it, but because of that bond I mentioned, most often we take a few deep breaths, collect our wits, and deal accordingly with the issue at hand. We don’t murder our children.

Yet among us, there are those who just aren’t capable of handling the stresses, or the pressures of parenting, and there are also those who just don’t want the added responsibility of children. There are those mothers who, simply put, do murder their children. In fact, according to the American Anthropological Association about 200 mothers kill their children in the United States each year, and a shocking three to five children are killed every day by their parents or other relatives. The logic in me insists that for a parent to be capable of murdering their own child, they must be suffering from extreme and uncharacteristic behavior or some kind of untreated mental illness. Or, they must have experienced severe trauma of their own, and have deep rooted (and again, untreated) relating issues. Then there are illogical explanations where a mother just may want more uninterrupted time with her boyfriend, or to not have to pay a babysitter while she is out participating in hot body contests. Maybe, just maybe.

As the Casey Anthony trial wrapped up and presented a not guilty verdict, it became more and more evident that this case, this tragedy, is far from being over. The fact of the matter is that two-year-old Caylee Anthony died in some terrible way, and more likely then not, she died at the hands of someone she knew, someone she trusted, and someone who most likely loved her. Jennifer Ford is one of the few jury members who has opted to speak openly about the final verdict in the Casey Anothony’s murder trial. “I did not say she was innocent,” she said. “I just said there was not enough evidence.”

Somewhere out there, there is someone who knows the whole truth about Caylee Anthony’s story, about her tragic death. How unforgivable would it be if that someone is the one person who should have protected Caylee against anything bad in this world, the one person who was also found not guilty in her death, and the one person who is about to walk free.

About Kate:

Kate, a freelance writer and mother of two, most often finds creative inspiration in writing, but occasionally at the bottom of an empty wine glass. She has hijacked her family’s former lifestyle and is in the midst of creating a simpler and greener approach to life. To follow her family’s challenges and successes in this endeavor, visit her blog, at Kate’s Musings. She and her family have lived in Birmingham since 2009.

GenB's Mommy Style Makeover Contest

Posted on by Angie

Contest is now CLOSED, winners will be announced soon!

Brookwood Medical Center and GenB.com present:   “Mommy Style Makeover Contest”

Every Mommy has her own style. Maybe you keep your kids in touch with their planet. Or every time you leave the house, you’re ready to walk the runway. No matter your style, every mom deserves a little pampering.

Join us for a fun online contest where you can discover your style and enter for a chance to win one of four mommy makeovers, complete with fab new clothes, styling, and a photo session from one of Birmingham’s most popular photographers!  Just think… the person who is normally taking the pictures will finally have a great picture of themselves!

Each of the 4 moms will win:

Mommy Style photo session with Amanda Traywick Photography (Aug 17, 2011 session date). Also includes FREE disc with images.

Styling from Molly Green, an eco chic boutique, plus $100 gift card to purchase something for your style!

Hair and makeup from T. Fox Salon!

And for your family… you’ll win:

FREE family session with Amanda Traywick Photography (Aug 27, 2011 session date) AND a 16×20 mounted print

Contest runs from 7/11/11-7/28/11, Winners must redeem the MommyStyle photo session August 17th, 2011.

To enter:

1. Visit GenB.com and take the “MommyStyle Quiz.”
2. Post your results on Brookwood Medical Center’s Facebook page.

For additional entries:

3. Tweet “What’s your Mommy Style? Find out at genB.com @BrookwoodMed”
4. If you’d like a mail-in entry form, email contact@birminghammommy.com with your address.

While you’re over at genB.com, check out the other fun features available. We love the radio stations, especially “Tiny Tunes” and “Party on the Potty.” And, the Community Blog is growing each day with lots of great information on topics just for women.

Sponsored By:

Birmingham Events Calendar: July 10th – 17th

Posted on by Angie

Looks like another hot week here in Birmingham! Keep the kiddos busy this week with some of these great activities going on around town!

The libraries still have plenty of summer activities going on and you’ll want to make sure to check out the Potter Party going on at the Hoover Library on Friday, right on time with the release of the last film!

Saturday brings farmers markets and Fresh Market on the Green will be back at Ross bridge, lot so fruits, veggies and fun!

If you’re a zoo member and you like baseball, check out the Barons game on Wednesday night! Zoo members get it free!

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

Sunday July 10th:

Pirate Weekend – McWane Science Center
Set sail for an educational voyage during Pirate Weekend at McWane Science Center. Join our crew as we explore the museum and aquarium on a treasure hunt with fun activities including making pirate hats, eye patches, a compass and even a nautical knot station. As you navigate your way through the aquarium discover an octopus, touch a shark and even see a horseshoe crab up close during exciting programs throughout the weekend.

Dress like a pirate and get $5 admission to the museum. All activities are included in cost of admission to the museum. Free for members. Discount not valid with any other promotions or discounts
12pm – 4pm

Barts Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
American Flags

Show your patriotism by creating a colorful flag with Bart! The Museum offers a fun and free drop-in art program for kids and families! Visit Bart’s Art Cart in the main lobby to explore great art and create some art of your own with the help of our Teen Volunteers. Each month highlights a different gallery and features a new art activity. Learn how to look at art with your child. Stop by and make art with Bart!
1pm

Scholastic Chess Club at Books-A-Million Brookwood Village
In our upstairs Kids Nook.  Beginners are welcome, lessons
available, K-12, other mind sport activities are available such as
checkers and GO.  Free to attend!
2PM – 5PM

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Monday July 11th:

Monday Movie – Homewood Library
Join us for a fun flick and a tasty treat!
3pm

Movie Matinee – North Shelby Library
Go see Tangled!
All Ages. Snacks Served. No
Registration Required.

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Tuesday July 12th:

Safari Greg– Homewood Public Library
Experience for yourself the wild and wacky world of Safari Greg! Combining magic, comedy and a wide array of animal friends he creates a fun–filled program that can only be described as a must see experience for all ages
6:30pm

World of Magic: Arthur Atsma – Emmet O’Neal LIbrary
AtsMagic is back with a hilarious magic show by Arthur Atsma!
10:30 am and 3:30 pm. All ages. No registration required.

Madcap Puppets – Hoover Public Library
Madcap Puppets presents Giants! in the Library Theatre.  Jack is back in this sequel to the famous fairy tale!  In this surprise-packed audience favorite, you will enter a world of towering tales where each giant is bigger than the last!
10:30am, 1:30pm and 6:30pm

Free or Discounted Movies
Amstar Alabaster – Muppets Take Manhattan
Rave, Lee Branch & Patton Creek – The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
Regal Trussville – Kitt Kittridge and Despicable Me
Edge 12 – Charlotte’s Web, Despicable Me

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Wednesday July 13th:

Zoo Night with the Birmingham Barons
As a benefit to being a member of the Birmingham Zoo. Zoo members will receive a free night of Baron’s baseball and entertainment. Everyone listed on the membership is included, simply present your membership card at the gate and enjoy nine innings of America’s favorite pastime!
7:05pm

Madcap Puppets – Hoover Public Library
Madcap Puppets presents Giants! in the Library Theatre.  Jack is back in this sequel to the famous fairy tale!  In this surprise-packed audience favorite, you will enter a world of towering tales where each giant is bigger than the last!
10:30am and 1:30pm

Storytime Science – McWane
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity for your early learner to experience science through literature. Enjoy an enriching story coupled with an intriguing science concept that is sure to spark the curiosity of your child.
COST: Included in cost of admission to the museum, FREE for members
10:30am

Wild Wednesdays – McWane Science Center
Included in the cost of admission to the museum, FREE for members
Bring your little animals for Wild Wednesdays every week this summer. On these special days, your family can take a walk on the wild side and learn about animals from around the world during different programs throughout the day. Join us for the daily line up of educational programs and then roam through the museum in between programs.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE:
10:30 AM: WILD ABOUT ART
(Recommended for ages Kindergarten and younger)
11:30 AM: Science on the WILD side
1:30 PM: Gulf Tank Feeding in the Aquarium
3:30 PM: WILD About Animals

Wonderful Wednesday Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Aloha! It’s a reading luau with Pig Kahuna by Jennifer Sattler. When two brothers head to the beach for a day of fun in the sun, the waves send to shore a very special gift.
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

Free or Discounted Movies
Amstar Alabaster – Muppets Take Manhattan
Rave, Lee Branch & Patton Creek – The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader
Regal Trussville – Kitt Kittridge and Despicable Me
Edge 12 – Charlotte’s Web, Despicable Me

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Thursday July 14th:

Maynard, Magic and Music– Homewood Public Library
Steve Burgess will be here with his very good friend Maynard. It’s a little bit of magic, a little bit of music, and a whole lot of fun. Don’t miss out!
10:30am

Reptile Library – Adamsville Library (Blackwell Park)
Join us with “The Bittles” at Blackwell Park as they Present a live reptile show. Many nonvenomous and people friendly reptiles that you can pet at the park.
10:30am

My World Storytime  – Hoover Public Library
My Books- Summer storytime for children under four.  In the programming room with Miss Traci and Miss Polly.
10:30am

Free and Discounted Movies
Carmike Summit – MegaMind

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Friday July 15th:

Party with Potter – Hoover Library
Join us as we say farewell to Harry and his friends with one last party in the Wizarding World of the Hoover Public Library.  Open to Potter fans of all ages.
7:00-9:00 pm

Wild About Books Storytime – Birmingham Zoo
Join us for story and craft time with Books-A-Million at the Birmingham Zoo!  Every Friday through summer on Grandma’s Front Porch in the Children’s Zoo. We’ll talk about sheep, turtles, elephants, parrots; and we might even get a visit with a few of our furry friends!
10am

Free or Discounted Movies
Homewood Park – Over the Hedge
Helena Amphitheater – Racing Stripes
Veterans Park Valleydale Road, Hoover – Yogi Bear

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Saturday July 16th:

Storytime on the Mountain – Ruffner Mountain Nature Center
Nature inspires creativity in children by engaging a full range of the senses. During Story Time we will stimulate the imagination by reading themed books about nature, wildlife, and the great outdoors. After the story, we make a craft that reflects the theme of the day. This program encourages a child’s limitless imagination. We will gather in the Tree Top Visitor Center’s Activity Hall for this Story Time adventure.

•$3/ $2 (member) •All children must be accompanied by an adult. •Suited for pre-school age. •Drop-ins welcome.
10am

Matinee – Alabama Theatre
Aquamarine
$7 adults$6 sr. citizens and children under 12.Available at the boxoffice 1 hour before show time.

Saturday Market – Pepper Place
7am – Noon

Fresh Market On the Green – Ross Bridge
Fresh Alabama grown fruits, vegetables, honey, fresh baked goods, coffee café, local artists, kids activity and more!
8am – Noon

Barts Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
American Flags

Show your patriotism by creating a colorful flag with Bart! The Museum offers a fun and free drop-in art program for kids and families! Visit Bart’s Art Cart in the main lobby to explore great art and create some art of your own with the help of our Teen Volunteers. Each month highlights a different gallery and features a new art activity. Learn how to look at art with your child. Stop by and make art with Bart!
11am

Saturday Storytime– Barnes and Noble Summit
Quick, before it gets too hot, learn how to plant in My Garden by Kevin Henkes.This little girl is growing much more than just flowers… come find out. Then afterwards, dig through our new Educational Toys & Games Department.
11am

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Sunday July 17th:

Barts Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
American Flags

Show your patriotism by creating a colorful flag with Bart! The Museum offers a fun and free drop-in art program for kids and families! Visit Bart’s Art Cart in the main lobby to explore great art and create some art of your own with the help of our Teen Volunteers. Each month highlights a different gallery and features a new art activity. Learn how to look at art with your child. Stop by and make art with Bart!
1pm

Barts Books – Birmingham Museum of Art
Fritz and the Beautiful Horses
Fritz is not beautiful like the other ponies and proves that there are things more important than looks to the citizens of his town.
Bart the Art Bat selects one book each month about art that he think 4-7 year olds will enjoy. The storytellers are often our favorite teachers from local schools. “Bart’s Books’ takes place at 11 AM

Scholastic Chess Club at Books-A-Million Brookwood Village
In our upstairs Kids Nook.  Beginners are welcome, lessons
available, K-12, other mind sport activities are available such as
checkers and GO.  Free to attend!
2PM – 5PM

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

Imagination Lab – This summer, McWane Science Center invites you to discover the power of your imagination in a collection of new exhibits called The Imagination Lab.

Dive right into the Bubble Room where you can discover the science of suds when you step inside a giant bubble. Try your hand at making all kinds of bubbles in this unique area including square and triangular bubbles.

The Imagination Lab’s zip line offers an exciting experience for adventure seekers of any age. Parents and children alike can fly through the air on the new zip line and have a safe landing at the end of the line! Learning lurks around every turn inside a giant maze in the exhibit as you find your way around dead ends and wrong turns. With a few lessons learned, you will find your way to the end in no time.

The new Imagination Lab also features a Messy Art Studio. Splatter paint, mix colors and experiment with a variety of materials to create masterpieces of your imagination.

Inside the lab you can use giant foam building blocks to construct forts, tall towers, and more.

Eat Well, Play Well – What is in the food we eat? Are fruits and vegetables important? Can everyday activities burn calories? Visitors will find the answers to these questions by exploring nutrition and fitness in this summer’s traveling exhibit called Eat Well, Play Well. This highly-interactive exhibit encourage healthy living by teaching the science of making healthy-food choices and helping children and adults discover that there are many fun and interesting ways to stay active. Visitors will discover what an appropriate serving size looks like, see first hand what it takes to burn off calories, test their flexibility and balance, review the latest clinical research and realize that they can reduce their risk of disease with healthy choices that are within their reach!

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.

Multiplicity: Tips and Tricks for Moms with Multiples

Posted on by Angie

Whether you had multiples first, or had a single to practice on before your multiples arrived, raising a set of twins (or more) will always throw you for a loop.

We reached out to our Moms of Multiples community and asked them to share some tips or tricks they’ve learned that make life a little easier, whether it’s traveling, mealtimes or time outs, it’s always nice to get some ideas on how to better handle some of these situations.

I know from the very beginning people offer lots of advice, but one of the most valuable pieces of information I received was to force them onto the same schedule, no matter what. My girls did a little bit of time in the NICU so getting them on the same schedule wasn’t terribly difficult because it was pretty much done for us. Keeping them on that same schedule was fairly easy but did present problems periodically. We managed to push through and just kept in mind how tough life would be if they got off schedule, we would have never gotten sleep.

Vicki Scruggs, Mom to 4 year old identical twin boys suggests a different take on time out… “When both children are fighting over one toy and the fight cannot be resolved by trading or bartering, the toy goes into time out. This is great because they understand the concept of time out. It’s a simple way of resolving a problem until they both can compromise to get the toy out of it time out. If they cannot compromise, the toy will stay in time out forever. We have had a yellow convertible in time out for at least a year, and honestly they have completely forgotten about it.”

If you need some advice on traveling, Alicia Bailey, Mom to 17 month old, Girl/Girl twins offers this tip, ” I divide my list into categories: Feeding, Baby Care, Clothing, and Baby Gear.  Under each heading I list what I will need for the trip.  As my girls grow and their needs change, I edit my list, for instance we no longer use bottles, but take sippy cups instead.  So far, we have taken them on three trips, each 3-5 days and it has worked like a charm.  I also take a copy of the list packed in their bag, so I don’t forget to bring it all back again.”

Mom to 4 year old, Girl/Girl twins, Shirley Lewis agrees with the “feed one, feed both (all)” advice I mentioned above and adds some of her advice about positive reinforcement.. How many times have you heard the term “Double Trouble?” she recommends to not let people scare you when they say things like “I don’t know how you do it.” “Twins are fun, sure they are hard work, but if you keep them on a schedule and form an assembly line of sorts, things will be much easier…”

As your multiples grow so do their personalities and will, they are also busy trying to figure out how to be individuals. Lewis also offers, “Stay out of their arguments. When they argue or bicker at each other, let them work it out. They will start resenting YOU when you try to stop one from being “mean” to the other.  We have no idea how deep their relationship is.. they have to share everything. Bickering at each other is their own way of showing independence from the other… it’s healthy..that is unless they start drawing blood.”

Are you raising multiples? What advice do you have for other Moms looking for tiny little bits of information that might help make life with multiples even a tad bit easier?

Giveaway: Flora Belle Designs

Posted on by Angie

The original fuzzy number birthday shirt!  Flora Belle Designs has 3 fabulous birthday shirts for 3 lucky winners! You will get a custom made shirt for your wee one to wear on their birthday– also makes a great birthday gift.

TO ENTER:
1. Comment here, 1 entry
2. Comment on Flora Belle’s Facebook page, 1 entry
3. Tell a friend! Have a friend comment here that you sent them and you both get an extra entry, unlimited entries.

Contest ends Friday 7/8/11 at midnight CST.

Birmingham Area Membership Alliance Day 2011!

Posted on by Angie

It’s that time of year again! The one where if you’re a member of one of the participating cultural centers in Birmingham, the Cultural Alliance of Greater Birmingham wants to show their appreciation by inviting you to a special members-only day of free admission and family-friendly activities.

One valid membership card and/or postcard invitation admits 2 adults and up to 4 children into absolutely any and every participating venue all day long.

Participating Organizations are:

Alabama Sports Hall of Fame
Alabama Ballet
Barber Motorsports
Birmingham Children’s Theatre
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Birmingham Museum of Art
Scrollworks
Birmingham History Center
Alabama Theatre
Sidewalk Film Festival
Birmingham Zoo
Embellishments Handbell Ensemble
McWane Science Center
Red Mountain Theatre Company
Birmingham Public Library Sloss Furnaces
Southern Museum of Flight
Vulcan Park and Museum

So, if you’re a member to any of the above, you get to try the others out on Saturday, July 23rd. Make a day of it and see how many you can explore! Who knows, you might even end up with a new membership or two!

Many of the locations will have special performances and activities throughout the day, here is that schedule:

10:30 AM – 11:15 AM Birmingham Museum of Art activity
LOCATION: Birmingham History Center

11 AM – 11:30 PM Red Mountain Theatre Company performs
selections from Hairspray
LOCATION: McWane Science Center

12 PM – 12:30 PM Scrollworks Prelude Summer Orchestra performance
LOCATION: Birmingham Public Library

12:30 PM- 1:00 PM Birmingham Children’s Theatre performs Selections
from Jack & the Beanstalk
LOCATION: Birmingham Museum of Art

1 PM – 2:00 PM Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival’s
Children’s Short Film Festival
LOCATION: Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

1:30 PM – 2:00 PM Embellishments Handbell Ensemble performance
LOCATION: Alabama Sports Hall of Fame

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM Film Screening: Aliens In The Attic (PG)
LOCATION: The Historic Alabama Theatre

2:00 PM – 3:00 PM McWane Science Center activity
LOCATION: Vulcan Park & Museum

2:30 PM – 3:30 PM Alabama Ballet performance
LOCATION: Southern Museum of Flight

3:00 PM – 3:45 PM Birmingham Museum of Art activity
LOCATION: Birmingham Zoo

Self-Guided Tours
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM LOCATION: Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
8:00 AM – 6:00 PM LOCATION: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM LOCATION: Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark

7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Film Screening: Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid (PG)
LOCATION: The Historic Alabama Theatre

Birthdays done simply

Posted on by Angie

We all want to make sure our kids have a memorable birthday party.  But that doesn’t mean you have to go crazy.  We’ve all seen “Sweet Sixteen” on MTV, and let’s be real here… that is NOT the result we’re going for.  There’s no better way to show your kids that it is their time with family and friends that is the most valuable – maybe they’ll even stop asking guests “Where’s my present?” as they arrive.  Not that that’s ever happened to me.  More than once.  Or twice.

Food:

Keep it simple, the focus is the people not the time you spent prepping.

  • Fruit- it’s easy and healthy, what more do you need?  Strawberries, pineapple, apple, oranges.
  • Munching food- pretzels, goldfish, crackers, and no party is complete without some potato chips.
  • Dips- combine with munching foods and it’s a win win!  Salsa, queso, spinach dip… all are easy yet filling.

Invitations:

Deanna Gardner, of The Baby Gardner, has some tips to make any party unique and cost-effective too. “To save funds, have a DIY (do-it-yourself) birthday party. Become a crafty momma and encourage the birthday boy or girl to help.
Together you can spend quality time creating invitations and decorations for the party. Simple paper chain streamers and handmade cards cut the party budget and encourage creative play. Look online for simple craft projects to help in your party planning.”

Fun:

It doesn’t take much to please a kid.  The simple pleasures are your best bets.  Balloons, pinatas, some fun dress up clothes… it’s all so easy but it works.

What ideas do you have for throwing a great, yet simple Birthday Party?

Droolicious Cuisine: Seared Scallops over Creamy Succotash

Posted on by Angie

These days, I am aiming for recipes that I can only describe as “easy gourmet.” I want it to look like I spent hours in the kitchen, but with as little time spent cooking as possible. The total time spent on this meal was about 15 minutes. This creation was absolutely delish! The Husby said it goes in the recipe hall of fame with a spot in his top three. This is a perfect meal for a special occasion or when you want to show everyone a glimpse of your inner Paula Deen. Recipe yields 2 servings. Enjoy!

Ingredients:
14 sea scallops
1 tablespoon + 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 medium onion, diced
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 can triple succotash, drained
1 bag baby spinach
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon butter
1 teaspoon Tony Chachere’s seasoning
salt
black pepper
1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Directions:
1) Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and saute 4 minutes or until soft. Add garlic and cook an additional 2 minutes.
2) Add triple succotash and Tony Chachere’s seasoning to onion mixture. Simmer over medium-low heat for 6 minutes. Add cream to mixture and return to a simmer over low heat.
3) Once succotash begins to simmer, mix in spinach a few handfuls at a time. Continue to cook, stirring occassionally, until spinach softens.
4) Rinse scallops and pat dry with a paper towel. Lightly salt and pepper scallops on both sides.
5) In a separate skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. As soon as butter begins to brown in olive oil, add scallops to pan. Sear scallops for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until a caramelized brown crust forms. Immediately remove scallops from pan when finished cooking.
6) Put a few spoonfuls of succotash on plate and top with scallops. Squeeze a wedge of fresh lemon juice over top of scallops.
About Kim:
I have been blessed with 2 beautiful kids, one funny little girl & one sweet little boy. They are always the best part of my day. I’m also the luckiest gal in the world because I am married to my soulmate, the kindest and most selfless man I know.

Event of the Week – Pirates Weekend at McWane

Posted on by Angie

Aaargh Matey! It’s Pirates weekend in the Aquarium at McWane Science Center!

Set sail for an educational voyage during Pirate Weekend at McWane Science Center. Join our crew as we explore the museum and aquarium on a treasure hunt with fun activities including making pirate hats, eye patches, a compass and even a nautical knot station. As you navigate your way through the aquarium discover an octopus, touch a shark and even see a horseshoe crab up close during exciting programs throughout the weekend.

Dress like a pirate and get $5 admission to the museum. All activities are included in cost of admission to the museum. Free for members. Discount not valid with any other promotions or discounts.

July 9 – 10
Saturday: 10 – 4
Sunday: 12 – 4

Birmingham Events Calendar: July 3rd – July 10th

Posted on by Angie

Happy 4th of July! We hope you all are having a wonderful and safe holiday weekend with your family and friends! We also hope it includes some incredibly yummy food!

Lots of fun stuff on the calendar this week, take a moment and catch your breath from the weekend and jump right back in!

The libraries continue to bring a ton of fun to the schedule, this week with inflatables, sidewalk chalk, puppets and juggling! Coming up over the weekend you can catch Blues Brews and BBQ at Alabama Adventure or raid your dress up clothes for your Pirate Gear and help the McWane Science Center celebrate Pirates Weekend! Arrgh!

Don’t forget free and discounted movies are a great way to beat the summer heat!

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

Sunday July 3rd:

Barts Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
American Flags

Show your patriotism by creating a colorful flag with Bart! The Museum offers a fun and free drop-in art program for kids and families! Visit Bart’s Art Cart in the main lobby to explore great art and create some art of your own with the help of our Teen Volunteers. Each month highlights a different gallery and features a new art activity. Learn how to look at art with your child. Stop by and make art with Bart!
1pm

Scholastic Chess Club at Books-A-Million Brookwood Village
In our upstairs Kids Nook.  Beginners are welcome, lessons
available, K-12, other mind sport activities are available such as
checkers and GO.  Free to attend!
2PM – 5PM

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Monday July 4th:

Happy 4th of July!!

Thunder on the Mountain – From Vulcan
Get spot somewhere around town, as long as you have a clear view of Vulcan you will be able to enjoy the fireworks as they light the nights sky! (ps, you can’t go up to Vulcan, just need to be able to see him)
9pm

4th of July Street Festival – Downtown Homewood
Music, inflatables, games and fun for the whole family. A great way to pass some time while waiting on the fireworks show!
5pm

Jazz in the Park – Caldwell Park
Join us for our 2nd annual Jazz in the Park concert series in Caldwell Park. Bring your picnic basket and lawn chair for an evening of Jazz featuring diverse group Birmingham area Jazz musicians.
5pm – 8pm

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Tuesday July 5th:

Inflatable Fun – Homewood Public Library
Grab your bathing suit, a towel, and some sunscreen and join us for inflatable fun! It’s water fun for all ages.
10:30am

Quite a Catch: World of Tricks – Emmet O’Neal LIbrary
Join us for Quite a Catch, a comic juggling show.
10:30 am and 3:30 pm. All ages. No registration required.

The Puppet Guy – Hoover Public Library
Atlanta-based puppeteer Lee Bryan presents Travelin’ Tales in the Library Theatre: a tantalizing trio of timeless tales from India, China and Native American lore.
10:30am, 1:30pm and 6:30pm

Lego Mini Build – Riverchase Galleria
One free per child. Event is open to children aged 6 to 14 only.
Build a Lego Lighthouse! begins at 5:00pm until supplies last

Free or Discounted Movies
Amstar Alabaster – Kung Fu Panda
Rave, Lee Branch & Patton Creek – Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief
Regal Trussville – Furry Vengeance and Shrek, Forever After
Edge 12 – Pokemon, How the Grinch Stole Christmas

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Wednesday July 6th:

The Puppet Guy – Hoover Public Library
Atlanta-based puppeteer Lee Bryan presents Travelin’ Tales in the Library Theatre: a tantalizing trio of timless tales from India, China and Native American lore.
10:30am and 1:30pm

Storytime Science – McWane
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity for your early learner to experience science through literature. Enjoy an enriching story coupled with an intriguing science concept that is sure to spark the curiosity of your child.
COST: Included in cost of admission to the museum, FREE for members
10:30am

Wild Wednesdays – McWane Science Center
Included in the cost of admission to the museum, FREE for members
Bring your little animals for Wild Wednesdays every week this summer. On these special days, your family can take a walk on the wild side and learn about animals from around the world during different programs throughout the day. Join us for the daily line up of educational programs and then roam through the museum in between programs.

PROGRAM SCHEDULE:
10:30 AM: WILD ABOUT ART
(Recommended for ages Kindergarten and younger)
11:30 AM: Science on the WILD side
1:30 PM: Gulf Tank Feeding in the Aquarium
3:30 PM: WILD About Animals

Wonderful Wednesday Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
The Cat is back in Splish, Splash, Splat! by Rob Scotton. What is scary, wet and makes him soggy? Come find out and see how Splat handles learning something new. Then, swim through our Educational Toys & Games Department.
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

Free or Discounted Movies
Amstar Alabaster – Kung Fu Panda
Rave, Lee Branch & Patton Creek – Percy Jackson and the Olympians: The Lightning Thief
Regal Trussville – Furry Vengeance and Shrek, Forever After
Edge 12 – Pokemon, How the Grinch Stole Christmas

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Thursday July 7th:

Sidewalk Chalk – Homewood Public Library
Who likes to draw? I do! I do! Come draw a masterpiece on our sidewalks, and enjoy a chilly shave ice while you work.
10:30am

My World Storytime  – Hoover Public Library
My Teddy Bear– Summer storytime for children under four.  In the programming room with Miss Traci and Mr Jeremy.
10:30am

Free and Discounted Movies
Carmike Summit – Madagascar 2

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Friday July 8th:

Wild About Books Storytime – Birmingham Zoo
Join us for story and craft time with Books-A-Million at the Birmingham Zoo!  Every Friday through summer on Grandma’s Front Porch in the Children’s Zoo. We’ll talk about sheep, turtles, elephants, parrots; and we might even get a visit with a few of our furry friends!
10am

Free or Discounted Movies
Homewood Park – The SpongeBob SquarePants Movie
Helena Amphitheater – Footloose

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Saturday July 9th:

Pirates Weekend – McWane Science Center
Set sail for an educational voyage during Pirate Weekend at McWane Science Center. Join our crew as we explore the museum and aquarium on a treasure hunt with fun activities including making pirate hats, eye patches, a compass and even a nautical knot station. As you navigate your way through the aquarium discover an octopus, touch a shark and even see a horseshoe crab up close during exciting programs throughout the weekend.

Dress like a pirate and get $5 admission to the museum. All activities are included in cost of admission to the museum. Free for members. Discount not valid with any other promotions or discounts
10am – 4pm

Blues, Brews and Bar B Que – Alabama Adventure
The competition is a sanctioned event by the Kansas City Barbeque Society and is free with the price of admission or your season pass.

General Admission $35.99 ($30.99 ONLINE)
Junior/Senior (Under 48″ or over 62 years) $25.99
Children 3 and under get in free FREE

One Day Parking $10.00

Matinee – Alabama Theatre
Space Jam
$7 adults$6 sr. citizens and children under 12.Available at the boxoffice 1 hour before show time.

Lowes Build and Grow Clinic
Your child will love this kit! This awesome Tow Truck comes with stickers and a working tow hook!
10am

Saturday Market – Pepper Place
7am – Noon

Barts Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
American Flags

Show your patriotism by creating a colorful flag with Bart! The Museum offers a fun and free drop-in art program for kids and families! Visit Bart’s Art Cart in the main lobby to explore great art and create some art of your own with the help of our Teen Volunteers. Each month highlights a different gallery and features a new art activity. Learn how to look at art with your child. Stop by and make art with Bart!
11am

Saturday Storytime– Barnes and Noble Summit
Learn how recycling can save the Earth from Michael Recycle by Ellie Bethel. Join our superhero’s adventures cleaning the planet one town at a time. Then, we can play in our Toys & Games Department and create some arts and crafts!
11am

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Sunday July 10th:

Pirate Weekend – McWane Science Center
Set sail for an educational voyage during Pirate Weekend at McWane Science Center. Join our crew as we explore the museum and aquarium on a treasure hunt with fun activities including making pirate hats, eye patches, a compass and even a nautical knot station. As you navigate your way through the aquarium discover an octopus, touch a shark and even see a horseshoe crab up close during exciting programs throughout the weekend.

Dress like a pirate and get $5 admission to the museum. All activities are included in cost of admission to the museum. Free for members. Discount not valid with any other promotions or discounts
12pm – 4pm

Barts Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
American Flags

Show your patriotism by creating a colorful flag with Bart! The Museum offers a fun and free drop-in art program for kids and families! Visit Bart’s Art Cart in the main lobby to explore great art and create some art of your own with the help of our Teen Volunteers. Each month highlights a different gallery and features a new art activity. Learn how to look at art with your child. Stop by and make art with Bart!
1pm

Scholastic Chess Club at Books-A-Million Brookwood Village
In our upstairs Kids Nook.  Beginners are welcome, lessons
available, K-12, other mind sport activities are available such as
checkers and GO.  Free to attend!
2PM – 5PM

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

Imagination Lab – This summer, McWane Science Center invites you to discover the power of your imagination in a collection of new exhibits called The Imagination Lab.

Dive right into the Bubble Room where you can discover the science of suds when you step inside a giant bubble. Try your hand at making all kinds of bubbles in this unique area including square and triangular bubbles.

The Imagination Lab’s zip line offers an exciting experience for adventure seekers of any age. Parents and children alike can fly through the air on the new zip line and have a safe landing at the end of the line! Learning lurks around every turn inside a giant maze in the exhibit as you find your way around dead ends and wrong turns. With a few lessons learned, you will find your way to the end in no time.

The new Imagination Lab also features a Messy Art Studio. Splatter paint, mix colors and experiment with a variety of materials to create masterpieces of your imagination.

Inside the lab you can use giant foam building blocks to construct forts, tall towers, and more.

Eat Well, Play Well – What is in the food we eat? Are fruits and vegetables important? Can everyday activities burn calories? Visitors will find the answers to these questions by exploring nutrition and fitness in this summer’s traveling exhibit called Eat Well, Play Well. This highly-interactive exhibit encourage healthy living by teaching the science of making healthy-food choices and helping children and adults discover that there are many fun and interesting ways to stay active. Visitors will discover what an appropriate serving size looks like, see first hand what it takes to burn off calories, test their flexibility and balance, review the latest clinical research and realize that they can reduce their risk of disease with healthy choices that are within their reach!

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.

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