MommyTravel: Las Vegas!

Posted on Tuesday, March 22, 2011 by Angie

Becoming a mom today doesn’t mean forfeiting all the fun parts of life. One thing we all want to do is travel. There are different modes of mommy travel: the couples trip, the family trip, and the girls only trip. When our spouses heard “Vegas” they were in for our first couples trip! (We’ll see how enthusiastic they are when we want to go to Louisiana to semi-stalk the Twilight cast. We say semi so we won’t be prosecuted.)

Las Vegas: The Couples Trip

Statistics say that having a baby puts a huge strain on your marriage. It is crucial to keep your connection alive with your spouse. We sometimes forget to nurture the spousal relationship because we’re so focused on our children. If there’s one place in the country where you can almost put your focus 100% on your spouse, it’s Vegas!

BirminghamMommy.com got the grandparents to watch the kids for a long weekend so we could check out Sin City. Here’s our scoop:

Getting there, Southwest.com– They have great direct flight options. This is a long flight and with the time change, you don’t want to miss out on too much of the fun, so do the extra money to avoid making a 3 hour flight a 6 hour ordeal. Southwest knew what our weekend goal was, they did a fun raffle on the flight that got our gambling money ready to exit our pockets. We lost the raffle, then crossed our fingers that it was foreshadowing for the trip!

TravelZoo.com– They have great deals all the time, but especially on last minute trips. Check them for flights, packages, and hotels. They currently have a special for the new Aria hotel in Vegas. If you’re considering trying it out, we say go for it. The hotel was a high energy, modern setting full of interesting architectural features.

The Stay- There are so many options when it comes to hotels. We stayed at the MGM Signature Grand. A word of advice- staying in a hotel that does NOT have a casino in the lobby allows you to get a little break from the constant party/smoke/action. As fun as the action may be, it is more relaxing to the multi-functioning mommy brain to be able to “reset” and transition into a more calm setting. I guess the kids’ bedtime routine has rooted itself deeply in our brains. That being said, I think the idea of always staying somewhere different is a good idea. Every place is it’s own experience.

Kids? There aren’t many kids in Vegas, for obvious reasons. We feel like this lessens the reminders of what you’re missing. There’s nothing worse than getting a night out and being seated next to a crying, temper tantrum throwing toddler. Not only is the noise bad, but then you start to miss the noise your own would make. A word of warning- you will see a sleeping baby thrown over the shoulder of a smoking, gambling, drinking adult at some or many points in your trip. Resist the urge to give the evil eye!

Nightlife. If you watched the Real World: Las Vegas, you know Ghost Bar at the Palms. It may be a cliché and I’m sure the locals frown at it, but cliché aside, this place is great. Incredible views, great music selections, and some really interesting people watching. (If your skirt is THAT short, we recommend panties!) Ghost Bar kind of embodies Vegas nightlife- it combines trendy with over the top and is somewhere that doesn’t seem remotely like real life.

Food. Vegas has so much to offer. You only live once- get breakfast served in your room! Or head to a buffet- there’s just something about the myriad of offerings in a buffet that makes me giddy. And there will be lines, but don’t worry! The city of Las Vegas is a well-oiled machine when it comes to getting your money in a timely fashion. You won’t wait too long. Try some international or fusion eats. Of all of our experiences we highly recommend Nobu. It is an amazing fusion restaurant with sushi that will rock your taste buds. There’s also an element of romance, as it is family dining. Order a few hot dishes and a few cold dishes and share away!

Options. The best part of Vegas is the options. They’ve pretty much got you covered when it comes to entertainment options, food options, shopping options. (Helloooo Kate Spade OUTLET!) Research any shows you are interested in before you go, get an idea of the price points, and look for coupons or special offers online. There will be random people handing out discount cards for a “donation.” Don’t waste your time, the cards actually say “Don’t tip for this!”

Be prepared to hoof it. The curse of Vegas is the desire to wear really awesome heels, coupled with the fact that you will be walking a short marathon over the course of the night. Invest in hot yet comfy shoes, you’ll thank us.

ToVegas is an experience that works well as a couples trip or a girls’ trip. Rent “The Hangover” before you go. It’ll get you in the mood!

Birmingham Events Calendar: March 20th – March 27th

Posted on Sunday, March 20, 2011 by Angie

Hello Spring… Boy have we missed you!

Check out what’s going on around town this week as most of you try to get back into a non-spring break routine. As always, plenty of storytimes to choose from, Saturday is packed with all kinds of activities from Free Day at the Birmingham Museum of Art, to the “It’s Easy Being Green” event at the Shops of Grand River… In case you needed an excuse to hit the outlets, now you have one.. You’re welcome!

If you like animals, check out Farm Day at the Birmingham Zoo or have breakfast with the animals at Ruffner Mountain Nature Center.

Whole Foods is celebrating “Whole Baby” all month long with great classes going on each week, stop by there on Saturday for some product samplings and demonstrations…

Whatever you choose, we hope you have a fabulous week!

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

Sunday March 20th:

The Very Hungry Caterpiller Day – Book a Million Stores
Celebrate a “Very Hungry Caterpillar” storytime & the 1st day of Spring!
2pm

Barts Art Cart – Birmingham Museum of Art
Make a Monkey Mask
Make a mask a king would be proud of! Using inspiration from Indian King Hamuran, you can fashion a monkey mask for yourself. FREE!
1:00pm – 3:00pm

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 March 21st:

Holy Inappropriateness – We couldn’t find any special events happening in the Ham’ today! Check out something going on daily on our list below

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Tuesday March 22nd:

World Water Day – McWane Science Center
Celebrate H2O with programs like “Water, Water, Everywhere!”
10am – 4pm – Cost included in the price of admission

Storytime – Hueytown Public Library
Join, me, Lisa Hicks, for Clifford the Big Red Dog and Friends stories, songs and activities.
This program is for preschool and caregivers though all ages are welcome. It is open and free to the public.
11:30 a.m

Storytime – Homewood Library
Join us for the fun of it! All ages welcome.
10:30am

After School Special – Emmet O’Neal Library
An Ire-ish Tale w/Wood and String life size puppets.
3:30-4:15 Ages 3 and up.

MOPS Meeting – Riverchase United Methodist
“Service Projects” topic at the Mothers Of Preschoolers (MOPS) forExpecting Mothers thru to Mothers with preschoolers at 6:30-8:30 pm RSVP child care with Lynn 664-4531.
http://riverchase.cc/mops.php

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Wednesday March 23rd:

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

123 Play With Me – Avondale Library
Avondale is providing a special time and place for you to come to the library and spend one-on-one time playing with your child. We will have toys, books, and art activities just for you and your child. A special guest will join us each week to answer some of your parenting questions. Don’t delay, call and register you and your child today.
10am

Wonderful Wednesday Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Travel along as Olivia Goes to Venice by Ian Falconer. Follow our favorite pig on her journey through Italy while creating arts and crafts. Then, explore our New Educational Toys and Games Department as you sip on a treat from our Cafe.
11:oo am

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

Storytime – Homewood Library
Join us for the fun of it! All ages welcome.
10:30am

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Thursday March 24th:

Storytime Live – Hoover Public Library
Art Show
10:30am

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Friday March 25th:

Storyday with Ms NeNe – Whole Foods
Come meet Mrs. Renee Schmidt “NeNe” as we bring you our beloved storytime. Enjoy storyboards, songs and snacks!
10am

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Saturday March 26th:

It’s Easy Being Green Day – Shops of Grand River
A fun, educational and interactive eco-experience with dozens of environmental groups, recycled media artists, and fun crafts.
On-site personal document shredding, cell-phone and electronic recycling. Come out and learn how you can make a difference in your community. Being Green isn’t only easy, but fun too!
10am – 3pm

Free Family Day – Birmingham Museum of Art
Did you know that one of the biggest Hindu holidays– Holi– is celebrated in March? Bart the Art Bat takes the whole month to celebrate! Join Bart on an adventure through the Museum’s Southeast Asain and Indian galleries. Music, dance, art activities and more fill the day!
Bart’s Asian Adventure: A Day of Color!
11AM–3PM

Breakfast with the Animals – Ruffner Mountain Nature Center
They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Come watch our resident turtles chow down on their food. Their zany antics will keep you giggling as you eat your own breakfast. You will have an opportunity to see and learn about other native Alabama animals. Start your weekend with up-close encounters of Alabama animals.
•Continental breakfast provided.
8am

Farm Day – Birmingham Zoo
Children’s Zoo from 1pm to 4pm to learn how farms work and how important they are in Alabama and around the globe. This is a great opportunity to see ways that the keepers take care of the farm animals with demonstrations like hoof trimming. Story time, a craft and up close encounters with the animals will also be included.

Mama and Me Whole Baby Day – Whole Foods
Join us for a fun-filled afternoon of sampling and product demonstration of all your favorite pre and post pregnancy products: supplements, body care, and favorite baby products!
11am – 3pm

Lowes Build and Grow Clinic
Make a Fortune Teller: This kit is fun for the whole family! Ask a question, shake up the kit and look inside for the answer!
10am

Paws in the Garden – Aldridge Gardens
Bring your furry friend to our 2nd Annual “Paws in the Gardens.” Enjoy doggy parade at 11am plus other activities, give-aways and demonstrations; talk to vets, trainers and groomers; learn about different breeds; and shop for doggy products. You can actually take a picture of your dog with a giant fire hydrant. Come join the fun!
$10 Admission ($3 of which will be donated to a local animal charity)

Super Saturday Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
That classic children’s song “Puff the Magic Dragon” comes to life as a book by Peter Yarrow (of Peter, Paul and Mary). Parents get to see their kids learn of “a place called Honalee” just as they did when they were young. Crafts, toys and treats too!
11:00am

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Sunday March 27th:

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

Itty Bitty Magic City –
The mini-sized Magic City – complete with buildings and factories – encourages young learners to explore new skills as they join the cities’ workforce. By dressing up in a favorite career costume and becoming a steel worker, doctor, pilot scientist or train conductor, preschoolers take one small step into the world around them. While operating cranes, turning gears, pulling pulleys, and building structures – to name just a few of the hands-on activities – children expand their understanding of themselves as they experience how objects behave and how their own actions affect the objects around them. Little explorers are free to navigate this active learning area at their own pace, allowing creativity, fun and discovery to flourish in the Itty Bitty Magic City!

NatureScope – Explore the great outdoors from inside the museum. McWane Science Center and the Birmingham Audubon Society are partnering to create a new exhibit called NatureScope. Explore the science of the birds and the bugs in this new area! Get up close and personal with some resident creepy crawlies! Learn what role insects play in our ecosystem with the decomposition chamber. Meet large bugs including emperor scorpions, a tarantula, and even a giant African millipede!

Animalopolis at the IMAX – ANIMALOPOLIS will take you on a voyage into the magical world of animals. A bit fanciful, a bit “Seussian” perhaps, a place of good natured humor, beauty and just plain fun for kids and their parents.

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!

MOMS Market 3rd Annual Springpalooza!

Posted on Friday, March 18, 2011 by Angie

The MOMS Market Springpalooza is only a couple of weeks away.. Are you ready? We are!

The Springpalooza will be held at the Pelham Civic Complex on Sunday, April 3rd, from 1pm – 5pm and will feature over 100 extremely talented Moms from in and around our area.

There will be Facepainting, Balloon Art, Music, Style consultations, Couponing from IGoBogo, autographs from University of Alabama Football Alum, Prince Wimbly and more!

In addition to all of the wonderful items up for sale, there will be on site monogramming, on site vinyl decals, great gift ideas for Easter, Mother’s Day, Weddings and Birthdays!

Mark your calendars now to come see us! We’ll be handing out some goodies so stop by our table and say hi!

Admission is free, and it’s open to the public.

Proceeds from a silent auction and raffle will go to benefit PADS (Parent Advocates – Down Syndrome) T-shirts designed from friends of PADS will also be available for purchase.

Here is a sampling of some of the 100 vendors set to attend:

Three Little Miracles, LLC. Custom boutique shopping cart covers made with designer fabrics and extra padding.

2 Cute Creations. Personalized vinyl monogrammed gifts

Daydream Designs, LLC – Creating Swinging Daybeds & Other Unique Woodworks

Scarlett Begonias – Custom and boutique children’s clothing from newborn to size 10 and children’s accessories

Usborne Books & More – High quality, educational children’s books and activity kits.

RTE Outfitters – Autographed Alabama and Auburn merchandise and apparel.

Flower Cakes Bakery – specializing in gourmet cupcakes, after school classes for children on cake and cupcake decorating, and birthday party hosting.

Gemmies – Handcrafted Jewelry, hand painted items and home decor

Jennifer Branham Photography – Local Childrens/Family Photographer

Cutie Caps – Specializing in magnetic bottle cap necklaces and accessories

Park Lane Jewelry – Exceptional quality jewelry that is backed by an unconditional guarantee

Ceremic Caboose – An on the move paint your own pottery studio. Birthdays, Ladies Nights out, and fundraising events for schools. Bringing the “studio” on site.

Rendi – Beautiful home decor and gifts.

Mom’s Girl Designs Neck coolers, crochet dish and bath cloths, and children’s lounge pants.

To Be A Blessing – Stuffed Monsters, and Grand Canyon Photography raising money for international adoption.

Memory Lane Designs – Custom scrapbooks, invitations, cards and more.

Magnolia Moon Design – Fairy Fine Things, Children’s dress up costumes including fairy wings and angel wings, tutu’s pettiskirts and more.

To keep up with all of the vendors that will be participating in the show check out MOMS Market on Facebook

March Giving Highlight: Parent Advocates – Down Syndrome

Posted on Thursday, March 17, 2011 by Angie

This month we are focusing our giving attention on PADS (Parent Advocates – Down Syndrome)

Down Syndrome Alabama seeks not only to advocate for the needs of individuals with Down syndrome, but to offer support, acceptance and encouragement for parents and families of persons with Down syndrome.

They also strive to increase awareness and knowledge of issues relating to Down syndrome and to educate the community about the presence and needs of people with Down syndrome in order to create inclusive environments for all persons.

In addition to all of the support they offer to families, PADS also helped establish the Down Syndrome Clinic at The Children’s Hospital in Birmingham. They provide parent volunteers for the Clinic, maintain the Clinic’s parent library, and help allocate Clinic resources.

They routinely organize educational conferences and workshops with national and local experts and helped establish the Adult Down Syndrome Clinic at UAB. The Clinic offers comprehensive care, primary care and specialty care for adults with Down syndrome.

BirminghamMommy.com is proud to be a part of MOMS Market Springpalooza coming up on April 3rd where a portion of proceeds from booth sales as well as profits from t-shirt sales and raffle money will go to support this cause.

So come out and shop with us, say hi and have the chance to win some great prizes!

For more information on PADS, visit their site.

Busy Mommy Bonding: Shamrock Garland

Posted on Tuesday, March 15, 2011 by Angie

Just a quick craft to do with your little Leprechauns this week. We raided the scrapbook stack and I even let them go through some old magazines to pick out some pages with greenish backgrounds..

What you’ll Need:

Scrapbook Papers
Old Magazines
Hole Punch
Shamrock cookie cutter (or you can free hand it)
Twine/Yarn/Ribbon for stringing the shamrocks

What You’ll Do:

Cut lots of Shamrocks, different sizes and patterns
Hole punch through one of the top leaves
String through with ribbon
Hang on your mantle

Erin Go Bragh!

Birmingham Events Calendar: March 13th – March 20th

Posted on Monday, March 14, 2011 by Angie

Happy Spring Break BirminghamMommy’s! Tons O’ fun going on around town this week.. Don’t forget to check out our list of places to visit if you’re looking for a quick overnight trip or if you’re looking to stick close to home, we’ve got that list too!

If you’re staying really close to home how about searching for clues with the Backyardigans or seeing some movies at the Hoover Public Library, or Birmingham Museum of Art? How about a Spring Break Scavenger hunt at Homewood Library? You’ll find all of that and more on this weeks calendar!

Don’t forget to wear green on Thursday! St. Paddy’s day is this week and we don’t want you to get pinched!

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

Sunday March 13th:

Little Naturalists – Ruffner Mountain Nature Center
Do you have fond memories of playing in the woods and want to share that wonder with your children? Or, if you missed out on nature experiences when you were young, now is your chance to experience the joy. Ruffner Mountain Nature Center provides a safe haven for youthful exploration for kids and adults alike. Each month, we will focus on a different topic, sparking interest and inspiring curiosity. Bring your budding naturalist to the mountain and let’s explore!

•$3/ $2 (member) •All children must be accompanied by an adult. •Suited for K – 2nd grade. •Drop-ins welcome.
2:00- 3:00pm

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Monday March 14th:

Book it to the Movies – Hoover Public Library
Tangled up in Rapunzel –
Let your hair down for games, crafts, and food inspired by some infamous fairytale locks
10:30am

Irish Monday Movie – Homewood Public Library
Sparkling with Leprechauns and Laughter
Juice and Popcorn will be served
3:30pm

Search for Clues with the Backyardigans – McWane Science Center
Explore McWane Science Center like never before! This Spring Break, join us for a learning adventure in the museum. Your whole family can embark on a scavenger hunt through the aquarium, to the land of the dinosaurs, into the woods in the NatureScope exhibit and around Itty Bitty Magic City! Along the way take your picture with Uniqua, Pablo and Tyrone from Nick Jr.’s hit TV show The Backyardigans.
TIMES: 10:00, 12:00, 2:00 & 4:00
COST: Included in cost of admission to the museum, FREE for members

Night out with the Backyardigans – McWane Science Center
Bring your little learners for a night out in the museum! Guests will enjoy after hours admission to the museum, crafts, snack time and a character meet and greet with Pablo, Tyrone and Uniqua. Seating is limited. To purchase tickets call (205) 714-8414.
Snacks provided by Chick-fil-a
TIME: 6:00 – 8:30 PM
TICKETS: $15 Adults, $12 Kids, Members save $5!

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Tuesday March 15th:

ArtBreak: Tours just for Kids – Birmingham Museum of Art
Explore the Museum with your child on your own or with a little help from a Museum Educator at ArtBreak. Stop by Oscar’s before or after for lunch!
12pm

Game Night – Barnes and Noble, Summit
Calling all game enthusiasts! Join us in our Cafe for a fun-filled evening of games to challenge your mind. This is an event the whole family can enjoy!
7:00pm

Cat in the Hat Craft – North Shelby Library
What better way to celebrate Spring Break and Dr. Seuss’ birthday month than by making this awesome Cat in the Hat – hat craft? All Ages. Registration Required.
2pm

Storytime – Homewood Library
Join us for the fun of it! All ages welcome.
10:30am

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Wednesday March 16th:

Book it to the Movies -Hoover Public Library
Percy Jackson and the Olympians –
Train for battle against Kronos and his cronies at Camp Half Blood
10:30am

Kids Movie and Activities – Birmingham Museum of Art
*activities will vary each day

11AM // Bart’s Books
11AM-1PM // Bart’s Art Cart
1PM // Kids Movies
10AM-5PM // Explore the Museum with exciting scavenger hunts!

Wednesday Movie: Megamind

Storytime – Gardendale Library
Free! It’s St. Patrick’s Day at the Library. Join Mrs. Janet for her favorite St. Patrick’s Day stories.
9:30 – 10:30am

Dr Seuss Movie – North Shelby Library
The Lorax
All Ages. No Registration Required. Snacks Served.
2:00-3pm

Wonderful Wednesday Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with us as we read Hooray for St. Patrick’s Day! by: Joan Holub. Find the hidden leprechauns and create holiday crafts. Then explore our New Educational Toys and Games Department while sipping on something tasty from our Cafe.
11:oo am

Storytime – Homewood Library
Join us for the fun of it! All ages welcome.
10:30am

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Thursday March 17th:

Kids Movie and Activities – Birmingham Museum of Art
*activities will vary each day

11AM // Bart’s Books
11AM-1PM // Bart’s Art Cart
1PM // Kids Movies
10AM-5PM // Explore the Museum with exciting scavenger hunts!

Thursday Movie: Toy Story 3

Scavenger Hunt Instruction Pick Up – Homewood Public Library
Come to the Children’s Department after 10 AM and pick up your instructions

Rainbow Craft – North Shelby Library
Help us celebrate St. Patrick’s day by making an awesome rainbow craft. All Ages. Registration Required.
2:00pm

St Patricks Day Science – McWane Science Center
Don’t miss the ooey-gooey green experiments
COST: Included in cost of admission to the museum, FREE for members

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Friday March 18th:

Kids Movie and Activities – Birmingham Museum of Art
*activities will vary each day

11AM // Bart’s Books
11AM-1PM // Bart’s Art Cart
1PM // Kids Movies
10AM-5PM // Explore the Museum with exciting scavenger hunts!

Friday Movie: Despicable Me

Scavenger Hunt – Homewood Library
Bring your Scavenger List back at 10:30 AM for tons of treats, prizes, and some out of school fun!

Book It to the Movies – Hoover Public Library
Alice in Wonderland –
Get lost in Wonderland with the Mad Hatter, Cheshire Cat, and more of your favorite Lewis Carrol Characters

Movie – North Shelby Library
Horton Hears a Who
Horton the Elephant struggles to protect a microscopic community from his neighbors who refuse to believe they exist. All Ages. No Registration Required. Snacks Served.
2:00- 3:30pm

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Saturday March 19th:

Barts Books – Birmingham Museum of Art
Mystery of the Monkey Maze, an adventure in Indonesia
11am

Super Saturday Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Find out what can happen If You Give a Mouse a Cookie in this story by Laura Numeroff. Afterwards, create some art and play in our New Educational Toys and Games Department while enjoying a delicious snack from our Cafe.
11:00am

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Sunday March 20th:

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Local Attractions Open Daily!

McWane Science Center:

Birmingham Zoo:

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

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

Vulcan Park and Museum:

Railroad Park:

Southern Museum of Flight:

Working Mommy Madness: The Case for Selfishness

Posted on Monday, March 14, 2011 by Angie

By Harmony Hobbs:

Ladies, we need to make time for ourselves. It’s vital to our survival.

Recently, I had a bit of a meltdown. Okay … fine. I completely and totally LOST IT. I reached the end of my rope. I took a trip to crazy town. I was, in sum, burned out.

My husband recently got a new job. It’s a very good job, and he’s very good at it. However, January thru April is the busiest time for them, and he works really long hours. Like, doctor-long. The only day we really get to see him is Sunday. This situation has posed several challenges, namely the fact that I have been taking care of cooking, cleaning, and the majority of childcare, pretty much on my own. All while working full-time. And, to compound the craziness, I’m pregnant.

To all you single mothers out there, I have been humbled. You kick ass. Seriously.

We knew when he took this job that this would happen. The insanity is temporary. So for the past 3 months I’ve hunkered down and muddled through, trying really, really (REALLY) hard not to complain. We have a comfortable life, but not the kind of comfortable that would allow me to hire a maid. Or a cook. Or … a therapist. It’s been rough, but I thought I was doing alright. I’ve been managing to keep things under control by rushing through my days and tasks, as fast as a waddling person can rush.

I haven’t had a crying fit at work yet. I thought that meant I was doing well. But then I found myself wondering how bad it would be, really, if I simply stopped showering. And then the day came when I just couldn’t do it anymore and I completely freaked out on my husband — and realized I hadn’t taken time for myself since well before Christmas.

That might be a record.

It was time for a little selfish spending. Some guilt-free time away from my family. Some ME time. Not a trip to the grocery store by myself. Not time in the house alone so I can put laundry away. I needed a night out with girlfriends, a pedicure, or some other kind of girly frivolity. I needed my husband to step up and take over so I could leave the house and not have to rush home at a specific time.

He did. And it was glorious.

There is something healing in reconnecting with yourself. Our identities are so tied up in our families and our jobs – whether working in or out of the home – and what we mean to other people that it can all become muddled. Frankly, I started to feel lost. I dislike feeling like my identity is slipping from my grasp. It makes me anxious. Going out in public sans diaper bag, without having to remind a wiggling child to “SIT DOWN OR I’LL TAKE YOU OUTSIDE AND SPANK YOUR LITTLE BUTT” or shout over high-pitched screeching healed my soul.

I felt ready to face life again.

It can seem impossible to find time for yourself, or find the money in your budget to do a little something just for you. It’s so easy to recite all the reasons why it’s not possible to do X, Y, or Z.

But listen up.

Are you listening?

YOU HAVE TO. No one else is going to do it for you. Your husband might be supportive, but he probably won’t know that you are burned out unless you are screaming it at him. Men, as hard as they may try, will never fully understand our emotional needs.

In one week, I managed to participate in Girl’s Night Out, indulge in a pedicure, and take a trip to the mall all by myself. Free of guilt. That’s right. All in one week. It felt fabulous. I returned from those outings in a much better place. I plan to cut down the grocery bill somehow so I can make pedicures a regularity before I completely lose sight of my feet in a few months.

I maintain that a degree of selfishness is what keeps mothers from being institutionalized. It’s a shame, really. All the work I’ve put into being unselfish, down the drain. But you know, straightjacket white is really not my color.

Harmony blew into Birmingham after Hurricane Katrina and is a self-proclaimed “never home maker” striving for a balance between her career and family life. Visit her blog Working Mommy Madness to read more!

Event of the Week! The Backyardigans at McWane

Posted on Sunday, March 13, 2011 by Angie

Explore McWane Science Center like never before! This Spring Break, join them for a learning adventure in the museum. Your whole family can embark on a scavenger hunt through the aquarium, to the land of the dinosaurs, into the woods in the NatureScope exhibit and around Itty Bitty Magic City! Along the way take your picture with Uniqua, Pablo and Tyrone from Nick Jr.’s hit TV show The Backyardigans.

DATES: March 14 – 16
TIMES: 10:00, 12:00, 2:00 & 4:00
COST: Included in cost of admission to the museum, FREE for members

Or take them to this special event also starring the Backyardigans!

Bring your little learners for a night out in the museum! Guests will enjoy after hours admission to the museum, crafts, snack time and a character meet and greet with Pablo, Tyrone and Uniqua. Seating is limited. To purchase tickets call (205) 714-8414.

Snacks provided by Chick-fil-a

Night out with the Backyardigans:
DATES: March 14, 15 and 16
TIME: 6:00 – 8:30 PM
TICKETS: $15 Adults, $12 Kids, Members save $5!

Droolicious Cuisnine at BirminghamMommy.com: Tomato, Basil and Mozzarella Pizza

Posted on Wednesday, March 9, 2011 by Angie

TOMATO, BASIL, & MOZZARELLA PIZZA

“I love cooking this pizza because it doesn’t require any measuring, and it is ready to eat in about 15-20 minutes. A nice change of pace from the tomato sauce pizza and so much better than delivery!”

Ingredients:
1 Boboli thin pizza crust
1 jar pesto
Shredded Italian cheese blend
5 ounces whole mozzarella, sliced
4 Campari tomatoes, sliced
Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Cracked black pepper

Directions:
1) Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
2) Spread pesto on pizza crust. Sprinkle shredded cheese blend on top of pesto.
3) Place mozzarella slices on top of cheese. Top with tomato slices.
4) Bake in the oven for 8-10 minutes or until cheese melts and crust is golden brown.
5) Remove from oven and top with fresh basil and cracked black pepper

Like this? You can find many more droolicious recipes over at her site, “2 Little Chicks”

A Spring Break "Staycation" In Birmingham

Posted on Monday, March 7, 2011 by Angie

With gas prices on the rise many families will be sticking close to home over spring break, but not to worry! There are plenty of things to do in and around Birmingham that will keep you busy, allow you to have some fun, possibly learn something new… (Shhhh, we won’t tell the kids they’re learning) but most of all they are close enough to the city so the drive won’t empty your gas tank…. or your wallet.

Tannehill State Park – more than 1,500 acres in three counties set aside for hiking, camping and outdoor recreation. A miniature railroad chugs through the pines. From spring through fall, the blacksmith, miller and craftsmen demonstrate their trades. Craft shops occupy restored pioneer cabins and artisans chat with visitors from their front porches. Steeped in history, Tannehill feels timeless. The cotton gin, pioneer farm and working gristmill preserve a long-gone way of life. Hiking trails retrace historic roadways. Artifacts of Alabama’s 19th century iron industry displayed in the Iron and Steel Museum put in perspective the massive stone furnaces, Tannehill’s awe-inspiring centerpiece.

Trade Days starts back this month and will fall at the end of this year’s Spring Break week, March 19th and 20th.

Moundville Archaeological Park – “The Moundville site, occupied from around A.D. 1000 until A.D. 1450, is a large settlement of Mississippian culture on the Black Warrior River in central Alabama. At the time of Moundville’s heaviest residential population, the community took the form of a three hundred-acre village built on a bluff overlooking the river.

Visit the newly renovated museum and experience the Lost Realm of the Black Warrior. While you are there, explore the park and take a moment to enjoy a spectacular view of the Black Warrior River or relax on our boardwalk nature trail.

Oak Mountain State Park – Alabama’s largest park, Oak Mountain provides 9,940 acres of pine-studded ridges and lush green hardwood bottoms. The park offers vacation cottages, golf, pro shop with snack bar, improved camping, picnicking, swimming, boating, fishing, hiking, mountain bike trails, backpacking, a demonstration farm and horseback riding facilities. With the largest area and variety of outdoor recreational pursuits, Oak Mountain is sure to provide excitement for every member of the family!

Desoto Caverns – Always something fun for everyone. With over 25 “Wacky” attractions including a three-quarter acre Lost Trail Maze, Panning for Gemstones, and the always popular Wacky Water Golf, you’re sure you’ll have a great time at Alabama’s Big Cave and More, DeSoto Caverns Family Fun Park. Attractions are open year round with the exception of the water attractions that open again in April.

Anniston Museum of Natural History – Explore the wilds of Africa, the wonders of the North American wilderness, and the mysteries of 2,000 year old mummies in the seven fascinating exhibit halls.

Open-air exhibits place you face to face with majestic–and often deadly–animals! See one of the country’s oldest exhibits of birds in their habitats, and explore the children’s discovery room for hands-on experiences with Alabama’s natural wonders.

The Tuscaloosa Barnyard – One of our favorite places to visit! 20 minutes from Tuscaloosa, the Barnyard offers a day full of fun on a farm. Kids will have a great time feeding the ducks & fish, taking a boat & pony ride and feeding all kinds of farm animals. Onsite restrooms, and plenty picnic tables so pack a lunch and enjoy the day!

Childrens Hands on Museum, Tuscaloosa – “Specializing in Awesome” CHOM’s permanent exhibits were designed to stimulate children’s curiosity about their community and their place in it, and to involve children, parents, teachers, and others in participatory education. Hands on exhibits you will find there include, a farmers’s market, DCH Hosptial, Farm, Choctaw Indian Village and more!

Learning through play is what their exhibits are all about, and you are encouraged to touch, feel and play in the exhibits. Three floors of fun wait for families and school groups, too. With 21 exhibits, CHOM offers newborns through age 13 a fabulous place just for them!

Noccalula Falls Park – One of Alabama’s Most Beautiful Natural Parks. Learn the legend of the heart broken Princess Noccalula and see the beautiful falls that were named after her. Take a one mile scenic tour on the replica CP Huntington Train and visit Jenks the Lynx, one of the 10 or so animals that can be found in the Animal Habitat.

If you like going to the movies, mix it up a little with a drive in. Put the kids in their jammies, and pack some blankets, pillows and snacks!

Argo Drive In

Harpersville Drive In

If your plan is to stick really close to home over spring break, The McWane Science Center will have special events including the Backyardigans going on all week, if the weather is nice it will be a perfect excuse to visit Railroad park, Ruffner Mountain or even Vulcan.

As you can see, our fine city has so much to offer, what will you try?