BigBham Deal: Private Swim Lessons from Swimwell

$100 for 4 Private Swimming Lessons from Swimwell (a $200 value). Or Purchase Two for a total of 8 Lessons!

Click Here To Purchase

About This Deal:

With this great deal, you can get 4 private swimming lessons for only $100 (a $200 value); or you may purchase 2 deals for an additional 4 lessons at this same great price!

With the spring-time weather introducing a summer of fun-in-the-sun activities, it is the perfect time to sign up for private swimming lessons from the one-of-a-kind Swimwell, LLC. It is their vision that any person who wants to learn how to swim can do so and enjoy it! This is a program that puts the FUN in the FUNdamentals. Their motto is to replace the fear of swimming with skill and knowledge.

The Swimwell LLC Aquatic School will guide the student into a world of knowledge and understanding of their bodies and how it interacts in an aquatic environment. Swimwell will eliminate all myths and most fears that hinder the student from achieving.

Click here to check out SwimWell Testimonials.

The Fine Print:

  • Promotional value expires May 27, 2011
  • Lessons are held at the indoor pool at the Lakeshore Foundation
  • Up to 2 children for the private lessons
  • Two vouchers per household (family)
  • May purchase two vouchers for a total of 8 lessons per person/household
  • View the standard terms that apply to all deals (See Below)

Except where noted in the fine print:

  • No cash value / No cash back
  • Entire value must be used in one visit
  • Tax and gratuity are not included
  • Cannot be combined with other promotions or offers
  • DealCoop.com Terms of Sale

Working Mommy Madness – Hormone Hell

By: Harmony Hobbs

I wish to discuss the power of the female hormone. Specifically, the power that it has over ME.

You see … I’m pregnant. But before that, I had PMS.

Generally speaking, I have the kind of PMS that takes control of my life for 1-2 days. I’m like a woman possessed. One minute I’m driving down the road, screaming at everyone who gets in my way, and the next I’m parked at Sonic with a Reese Peanut Butter Cup Sonic Blast with extra chocolate syrup in my hand. I don’t know how it happens. I don’t recall making the decision to stop, or even order.

Being pregnant makes me feel like I have PMS all the time. I knew it would be like this, because this is my second time around the block, but I had forgotten just how all-consuming it can be. It’s beyond my control. I do what I can … but in the end, “Crazy Bitch,” as I call this version of myself, is going to win. The part that I find the most depressing is the fact that I am not able to turn to wine. So I turn to food, which is currently one of the few vices I have left.

I feel most sorry for my husband and child, because they (with the exception of my mother) bear the brunt of my irrational behavior. My poor husband does the best that he can, but nothing he does is ever right, and there is really nothing he can do to make me happy except feed me and lie to me. Or go to the store for more eggs, so I can make the giant omelet I’ve been thinking about all day.

Please  note that when I say he can make me happy by lying to me, I mean telling me white lies like “Your skin is glowing,” “You’re not crazy,” or “OF COURSE you’re fun to be around.” REAL lies are not okay. And, in fact, if he made the grave mistake of telling me a real lie, I am quite sure he would be the sorriest man alive.

Recently he tried to get romantic, and chose the wrong moment to pick at a pimple on my back. He literally paused and picked at it. I screeched at him in horror. He said he was just trying to pop it. I said good night.

That was the last opportunity he had for quite some time to get any of THIS back-acned action.

My son is two, and whatever shreds of patience I had before getting pregnant with my second child have been replaced with a wacko tendency to yell.  A lot. There’s really nothing more I can say here without making myself sound like a terrible mother. Hopefully we’re all friends here and you can understand where I’m coming from without passing judgment, or wondering why on earth I am procreating again. I’m sure once I give birth I’ll return to my normal, patient self and all will be right again. Right?

RIGHT?!

All of this makes me wonder, is there ever a time when we are free from this vicious cycle of bad behavior? There’s PMS which starts at what – 13? Then pregnancy … then the mystery that is menopause, which seems like it might be the worst of all. And then, are you free? Is it over? Are you sweet and kind all the time, or at the very least, PREDICTABLE?

My husband says that women are complicated and difficult to figure out. I don’t disagree. I hardly understand my own behavior, and currently feel like I’m a slave to it. I’m mad, I’m really mad, I’m sad, I cry, I become kind of happy, and then it starts all over again. All I have to hold onto is my latest craving.


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!

Healthy Spinach Snack for Kids and us too!

This is a recipe from the Junior League of Birmingham’s Magic Cookbook.  I recently tried it and it is delicious and very kid-friendly!  This would be a great appetizer to bring to a party and even great for a playdate treat!

Spinach Balls
10 oz pkg frozen spinach
1 1/2 cups Pepperidge Farm Herb Stuffing Mix
1/2 cup finely chopped onion (I omit this to make it kid-friendly)
3 eggs, beaten
1/2 stick butter, melted
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp pepper
3/4 tsp garlic salt

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
Cook spinach and drain well, squeezing out all liquid.
Add all other ingredients and mix well.
Form into small balls and place on lightly greased cookie sheet.
Bake 15 minutes, do not overcook.
(May be prepared ahead and frozen before baking.)

My Funny Valentine

Valentine’s Cards aren’t always romantic and gooey. Some are funny, silly, maybe even a little naughty. We’ve complied a list of a few un-traditional cards that fit more into one of those “out of the box”categories than your normal sweet Valentine.

His knees say he has a big surprise, I’m thinking he can keep his big ole’ creepy surprise!





Bloop!

We would make a happy “pear.” Really? This pear does not look so happy to me!

So, you’re not a fan of this holiday, that’s cool.

Yeah….. I’m kind of thinking “Or Not”

Birmingham Events Calendar: February 13th – February 20th

It looks like another taste of spring is on tap for this week. I have to say I like it way better than the frigid weather we’ve been having! McWane Science Center is offering a Science storytime now on Wednesdays, what a great bonus if you’re going to be there already!

You can catch a Valentine Movie at Homewood library on Monday or choose from many other activities we have listed from around town.

Wrapping up the week will be Big Machines Day at McWane, sure to be a great way to spend your Saturday with the family!

Get out and enjoy the weather this week and Happy Valentines Day Everyone!

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

Sunday February 13th:

Little Naturalists Series – 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.
2pm

O’Reilly World of Wheels
Hey Kids! Come and meet SpongeBob SquarePants SpongeBob will be meeting his fans and taking Souvenir Photos. All weekend.
(Due to the nature of the costume, Sponge Bob must take frequent short breaks)

The First 200 kids through the door EACH DAY receive a FREE Hot Wheels Race your car for FREE on the Hot Wheels Drag Track sponsored by the Alabama Hot Wheels Club. ALL WEEKEND!

Don’t miss the most exciting Extreme Bike team around,  “On the Edge” Bike Stunt Team -an annual favorite.  ”On the Edge” will perform their thrilling bicycle and motorcycle stunts all weekend.
Noon – 7pm – Buy Tickets

Celebrate the Chinese New Year– Birmingham Museum of Art
Celebrate the Chinese New Year by creating a unique piece of Chinese art!
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 January 14th:

Happy Valentines Day!

Monday Movie – Homewood Library
The Children’s Department is showcasing a special Valentine’s Day movie for Monday Movie!
Juice and Popcorn will be served!
3:30pm

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Tuesday February 15th:

Education Celebration – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us for a fun-filled hour of hands-on learning featuring our brand-new Barnes & Noble @ School section with educational toys and games.
11:30am

Together Time – Emmet O’Neal Library
Action-packed storytime The Letter “S”
All ages. 9:30 a.m. or 10:30 a.m.

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

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Wednesday February 16th:

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
Read a very silly book called Children Make Terrible Pets by Peter Brown. Lucy the bear finds a little boy and wants to know if she can keep it as a pet. After the story, we’ll play Bear Hugs, a super-fun matching game.
11:oo am

Family Story Time with Mr MacNorth 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 February 17th:

SNAP – Emmet O’Neal Library
Mardi Gras Masks
Grades 3 -6
3:30pm – 5:10pm

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Friday February 18th:

Storytime with Nene – Whole Foods Market
In the Cafe. Snacks, Songs and Storyboards
10:00am

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Saturday February 19th:

Big Machines Day – McWane Science Center
Get your motors running and head over to McWane Science Center for a truckload of fun. Spend a constructive day getting up close and personal with some big machines including backhoes, excavators, dump trucks, loaders, dozers and cranes! Learn the science of simple machines and participate in fun building programs throughout the day! Machines provided by CraneWorks.
COST: Included in cost of admission to the museum, FREE for members
10am -4pm

Celebrate the Chinese New Year – Birmingham Museum of Art
Celebrate the Chinese New Year by creating a unique piece of Chinese art!
11:00am – 1:00pm

Super Saturday Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us today as we read The Tortoise or the Hare by Nobel Prize winner Toni Morrison and her son Slade Morrison. Fun activities to follow.
11:00am

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Sunday February 20th:

Celebrate the Chinese New Year– Birmingham Museum of Art
Celebrate the Chinese New Year by creating a unique piece of Chinese art!
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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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!

Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite: Prevention is Key in Keeping Kids Bite Free

By Amy Whitfield Richardson

A string of national news reports in late 2010 about a so-called “resurgence” of bed bugs in major American cities was enough to keep us up at night. But is the threat real?

According to local entomologists, bed bugs don’t seem to be a problem so far in the Birmingham metro area. And the good news is there are some simple and free ways to keep it that way.

“Prevention is a lot less expensive and traumatic than trying to get rid of the critters if they ever came visiting, as they are notoriously difficult to control once there,” said Urban Regional Extension Agent Sallie Lee, who works at the Jefferson County Extension Office.

Lee said while there has been a recent increase in bed bug issues reported to her extension office compared to “few to zero” calls in the past few years, there aren’t any outbreaks for which parents should be concerned.

“It is very possible that Birmingham metro will not experience any major problem, but realistically it is possible there could be minor issues,” Lee said. International travel, especially in countries with lower hygiene standards, is one of the leading causes for the spread of these small, blood-sucking insects.

“If your family doesn’t travel, especially internationally, that reduces the possibility of bedbugs right there,” Lee pointed out.

Because bed bugs are “hitch hikers” and largely dependent upon humans to travel from place to place, it is possible to bring them into your home on luggage, clothing, and on secondhand beds, couches and other furniture, according to Xing Ping Hu, an extension entomologist at Auburn University, who has answered numerous calls and emails regarding bed bugs over the past five years. Once in your home bed bugs can live in almost any unprotected crevice, but most commonly in the seams, tufts, and crevices of mattresses, box springs, bed frame and headboard, according to Hu.

“Bed bugs are difficult to find since they spend most of the time hiding, especially in the early stages, until you are bitten and show the swelling symptoms,” Hu said.

Once bed bugs are discovered, it can be time-consuming and even costly to eradicate them. Sometimes minor cases can be treated fairly easily with heat treatments and store products, but for more severe infestations may require the help of a professional pest management company.

The goal for parents is to keep them out in the first place and both Lee and Hu offer some easy tips to keep in mind for doing just that.

Ways to Prevent the Bed Bugs from Biting

Travel Smart

If you or your spouse travel frequently, take large, plastic bags with you. Put your luggage and other items into these bags to prevent bed bugs from entering.

Ask your hotel staff if the room you are assigned has ever been treated for bed bugs.

Whether staying at a hotel or with an acquaintance, look for droppings or actual bed bugs on the folds of the bed mattresses.

Always wash your clothes immediately when returning home after out-of-state travel or staying in a hotel.

Sleepover Safely

“Children don’t get bedbugs from playing with other children…” Lee said, however, “Children ‘sleeping over’ at another child’s home where bedbugs have been introduced present possibilities, particularly if that family travels outside the U.S.”

When hosting a sleepover for children, be sure to speak with parents about bed bugs and the precautionary measures you have put into place at your home.

If your child is going to a sleepover, ask about the sleeping environment, if they have ever had a bed bug issue and what they have done to eliminate it.

If you think your child may have come home from a sleepover with bed bugs, place his/her belongings immediately in a plastic bag before you let them enter the home. Have your child remove all clothing also and place it into the plastic bags to be immediately laundered. Wash and dry on the highest heat setting.

Second-guess Secondhand Furniture

“Bedbugs are one reason I would not recommend purchasing used bedding, mattresses, or upholstered furniture,” Lee cautioned. But if you can’t resist the bargain here are a couple of things to consider:

When shopping secondhand closely inspect items for evidence of bedbugs, especially in the seams and crevices of upholstered pieces. Signs include fecal stains, eggs and shed skins. Bed bugs also have stink glands that leave odors.

If the item was from someone you knew personally and you don’t think it would offend them, request to inspect the piece before you take it home with you.

Preventative products such as mattress encasements and bed bug interceptors can also block the pests from reaching beds and biting.

But if you think it’s too late for prevention and that you’ve discovered a possible bed bug problem in your home, Lee said, “Don’t panic.”

“The presence of fleas, chiggers, or ticks can create symptoms similar to those experienced by those who think they have bedbugs,” Lee said. “That is why we suggest capturing any insect found in bedding, mattress, or furniture in the proximity of a bed and having it positively identified before beginning treatment.”

For more information on identifying and removing bedbugs visit: www.bedbugsigns.com

Born and raised in Birmingham, Amy Whitfield Richardson is a full-time marketing and public relations coordinator who now resides in Lexington, Ky. A former reporter, she enjoys writing articles from time to time for her friends at BirminghamMommy.com

Giveaway: Big Machines Day at McWane

Last year this was a huge hit with kids in Birmingham!
Saturday, February 19,  10 AM – 4 PM

Get your motors running and head over to McWane Science Center for a truckload of fun. Spend a constructive day getting up close and personal with some big machines including backhoes, excavators, dump trucks, loaders, dozers and cranes! Learn the science of simple machines and participate in fun building programs throughout the day! Machines provided by CraneWorks.

Our lucky winner will receive a 4 pack of tickets!
Enter here:
1.  Comment here, 1 entry total.
2.  Love us on Facebook, comment here that you do.  1 entry total.
3.  Love McWane on Facebook, comment here that you do.  1 entry total.

Good luck!

Giveaway will end at 3pm on Monday. Tickets will be left for the winner at Will Call on the day of the event.

Birmingham Area Spring Break Camps & Classes

It might be hard to think about right now with the frigid air that has settled in over our area but Spring Break is fast approaching, what are you going to do with the kiddos while they’re out of school? We have a list of local camps and classes that will be available but they do fill up fast! If you see something you like, don’t wait to reserve your spot!

McWane Science Center:

Spring Break Camps
March 14th – 18th

Camps Include:

  • 1st rate hands on educational programming
  • ½ day or all day options
  • Mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks
  • Lunch (Subway sandwich, Pizza Hut cheese pizza, hot dog or hamburger with chips and a drink)
  • Before Care for morning sessions 8:00am – 9:00am*
  • After Care for afternoon sessions 5:00pm – 5:30pm (only for afternoon camps)*

COST:
Full Day
(Morning & Afternoon Sessions):
Members $60, Non-Members $80

Half Day
(Morning OR Afternoon Sessions):
Members $30, Non-Members $40

Reservations:
Reservations Required. CLICK HERE to register online.

Ruffner Mountain Nature Center:

Spring Break Camp
March 14 – 18

Keep your child active and learning during their break from school!
Drop off is between 8 AM – 9 AM.  Pick up is between 4 PM – 5:30 PM.
$40/day, $30/day (member) Campers may sign up by the day or week.  A 10% discount is given if a week is purchased.
More Information

Birmingham Children’s Theatre:

During the Spring Break Intensive, your child will be immersed in theatre for one-week of learning with BCT’s team of experienced professionals and instructors. With a focus on acting, dancing and puppetry, the Spring Break Intensive provides a well-rounded curriculum and builds upon the skills taught during the Fall Workshops Series. Maximum 16 students per class. No audition required.

Meets: Monday-Friday, March 14-18, 2011, in BCT’s BJCC performance spaces.

Class Level Age Meeting Time Tuition
Little Ones Current PreK & K 9:30-12:30am $125
Primary 1st & 2nd Graders 1:30-4:30pm $125
Ensemble 3rd & 4th Graders 9:30am-4:30pm $225
Supporting 5th & 6th Graders 9:30am-4:30pm $225
Principals 7th & 8th Graders 9:30am-4:30pm $225

Registration Deadline: Monday, March 1, 2011

To Register: Click here to download registration information for BCT’s 2011 Spring Break Intensive. Call 205-458-8182 or e-mail education@bct123.org for detailed information.

Birmingham Zoo:

Spring Break Camps
March 14,15, 16,17 or 18 2011

Each day campers will learn about different animals and topics. There will be fun activities, crafts and tours every day. Campers will meet and see some of the animals close up.

  • Adaptations & Reptiles – March 14
  • Habitats, Birds & Australian Animals – March 15
  • Food Webs & Primates – March 16
  • Classification and Savanna – March 17
  • Life Cycles & Predators – March 18

While attending School Break Camps, campers experience:

Train and/or Carousel Ride (as weather permits)
Crafts and Activities
Behind the Scenes Tours
Mid-morning and Mid-afternoon Snacks
Live Animal Demonstrations
Animal Artifacts (Biofacts)

General Information:

  • Campers should dress for the weather.
  • Camp occurs rain or shine.
  • Sports or water bottles are recommended.
  • If your child has special dietary requirements, he or she may bring his or her own
    lunch and snack (refrigeration is available)

Camp is 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM.

Cost: $40.00/student/day for members
$50.00/student/day for non-members

Lunch
Lunch is $6 per camper per camp day and consists of either: hotdog, baked chicken nuggets, turkey wrap, cheese quesadilla, or hamburger lunch with chips and a drink. Campers may also bring their lunch. We have a camp refrigerator if necessary.

Before and After Camp Care
We have heard the call of parents for early and late drop-offs. If you are in need for your child to join us early or to stay with us after camp, please let us know as space is limited. Before care times: 7:30 am to 8:30 am and Aftercare times: 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. Before and Aftercare charges will occur for campers being dropped off before 8:00 am and picked up after 3:45 pm. A charge of $1 for each minute a camper is not picked up begins at 5:30 pm. All campers must be picked up by 6 pm.

Before Care: 7:30-8:30 am
Members: $1.00
Non-members: $6.00
Aftercare: 3:30-5:30 pm
Members: $8.00
Non-members: $10.00

Register Online

Have a camp you would like to add to our list? Let us know at: contact@birminghammommy.com

Juicebox Jukebox with Scott Register, Reg's Coffee House

We have a very special treat for our Juicebox Jukebox this month! Scott Register from Reg’s Coffee House has so kindly submitted some songs for us to lull our babies to sleep with… and a few that will tug on the heart strings too.

We missed Scott while he wasn’t on air here in the Magic City but we are so glad to have him back on the airwaves on Birmingham Mountain Radio bringing sweet, sweet music to our ears!

“A couple of years ago, I put together a bed time record for my girlfriend’s niece. I liked it so much that I started using it for my two children and not they won’t go to sleep without it. It has now become a gift that I give friends when they are having children and I thought I would share it with you all.

Sweet Dreams!!!”

The Delays – Wanderlust – Faded Seaside Glamour: This one get’s dream time started off just right every night.

Alexi Murdoch – Orange Sky Time Without Consequence: One of my boy’s favorites. I think it is the refrain of “My salvation lies in your love” and Alexi’s comforting voice that makes it work so well.

Beatles – I’m Only Sleeping– Revolver: Kind of obvious but it never fails. A Beatles classic.

Bonnie Raitt & Don Was – Baby Mine – Stay Awake: I used to use this cover from the movie Dumbo to rock my children when they were cranky or ill as little babies. It’s as sweet and soothing a song as has ever been written and Bonnie Raitt kills with it.

Aqualung – Brighter Than Sunshine – Strange & Beautiful: Feel good song that ushers in sleep.

Donovan Frankenreiter – Wondering Where the Lions Are – Recycled Recipes: This one just fits and my kids love to sing along to it. Great cover of a classic from Bruce Cockburn.

Whiskeytown – Don’t Be Sad – Pneumonia: Ryan Adams and Caitlin Carey send a great message as they sing you to sleep.

Jack Johnson – Talk of the Town – Curious George Soundtrack: Takes you off to a tropical island and whisks your worries away.

Everything but the Girl – Apron Strings – She’s Having A Baby Soundtrack: This one is for all the mom’s out there and their babies. Kids love it.

Loggins & Messina  – House at Pooh Corner- The Best: Loggins And Messina Sitting In Again: One of my childhood favorites. Had to share it with my kids.

Iron & Wine – Such Great Heights – Garden State: Another perfect sleepy time tune.

Priscilla Ahn – Dream – A Good Day: The title says it all.

Wild Sweet Orange – Land of No Return – We Have Cause To Be Uneasy: Another one that just seemed to fit the mix and has a calming effect.

Jack Johnson Feat. Matt Costa – Lullaby – Curious George Soundtrack: Again, obvious but a perfect fit.

Ingrid Michaelson – Over the Rainbow – Be OK: Possibly the dreamiest song ever written and Ingrid owns it on this version. The perfect way to say Good Night and end this mix.

Birmingham Mountain Radio is an internet based radio station featuring a world class rock/adult album alternative format that focuses on local content through local DJ’s, specialty shows, promotions, and through highlighting local and regional bands.

BigBham Deal: Mountain Brook or Edgewood Creamery

Pay $5 for $10  Towards Any Ice Cream Cone, Cake or More at the Mountain Brook or Edgewood Creamery.
Click Here to Purchase

Mountain Brook Creamery & Edgewood Creamery can make your everyday with a tasty ice cream cone! They can also boost your Valentine’s or next Birthday party with a tasty cake to remember! Today’s deal gives you $5 towards $10 worth of an ice cream cake or just a scrumptious ice cream cone! Do not forget to check out their amazing Valentine’s Day Ice Cream Cakes!

Walking into our parlors will immediately make you smile! You will be confronted with THE BEST Ice Cream, handmade ice-cream cakes, and homemade waffle cones & cups around… not to mention their ice-cream pies and clown cones! Both stores provide 40 flavors of premium “Ice Cream Club” Ice Cream and “Only 8” Frozen Yogurt. “Only 8” yogurt has only 8 calories per ounce, no fat, no cholesterol, is all-natural and has a great taste that won’t go to your waist (with only 7 grams of sugar and 7 grams of carbohydrates)!… (Read More)

Mountain Brook Creamery has been a neighborhood fixture for 3 generations while Edgewood Creamery is about to celebrate its 3rd birthday as one of Homewood’s favorite sweet spots. It’s a great family experience from the time you walk in the door and smell the waffle cones cooking to the time you catch your children bouncing off the walls with Superman ice cream from head to toe!