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Mommy Voices: We Sow What We Grow

Posted on by Angie

By Erin Hicks Moon

You’d have to be living under a rock to not be aware of the epidemic of bullying in this country.  Specifically, gay-bullying.  The country is trying to decide whether or not a man and another man is an acceptable example of marriage.  The government has repealed the ban on gays in the military.  And a couple of months ago, four students took their own lives in the wake of being bullied because they were gay.

Forget your personal feelings on the issue of homosexuality.  If you’re a person with a rational mind and a heart of compassion, you understand that the fact that kids killed themselves because they felt alone, abandoned, and bullied is, emphatically, wrong.  And if you’re a parent, you can feel the loss, deep and dull in the pit of your stomach.

If we aren’t talking to our children about this issue, we’re missing a huge opportunity to teach compassion and true kindness.  Bullying is something that all kids deal with on a regular basis: they are either the victim, they are a spectator, or, as much as we hate to admit it, they are the perpetrator.  Our children are not always the hero of this story.

But we can change that.

But as parents, what can be done to stop gay-bullying?  We are the primary influence over our children, whether we believe it or not.  What we say, what we do, how we act, both in public and in private, is crucial to passing on a legacy of love to all people, no matter who they are.  How can we empower our children to change their classmates (and in some cases, their own attitude about others?  Being the Anti-Bully takes guts.  It takes courage.

It starts with us.  Here are a few ways you can start the bullying conversation with your kids, and show them that respect is always better.

Open Your Door – Although it is sometimes like pulling teeth to get your kids to talk to you, once they start, it’s hard to get them to stop.  Make a pact with your kids about confidential or hard-to-talk-about issues.  If you’ve got an “I Promise I Will Not Freak Out” policy with your kids, they’ll be more and more inclined to talk to YOU about things, instead of friends that may not have the best advice.  Let them know that you are there for them, ready to hash out the hard stuff.  And don’t be afraid of what your kids say.  They are watching your reaction like a hawk, waiting for any excuse to take this problem elsewhere.

Empower Your Kids – So many kids today suffer from helicopter parenting.  They have no idea how to do things themselves, because adults do everything for them.  Let them know that THEY are capable of making a change in their classmates.  Encourage them.  Kids that do things for themselves and are independent have the self-confidence to stand up to injustices, even when it’s scary or unpopular.  It’s embedded in their souls and a part of their character for the rest of their lives.

Take a Look at Yourself – Think about the jokes you made and the ways you try to make kids laugh.  Does it demean someone else?  If it does, you’re adding to the problem by making a joke out of someone’s skin color, for being gay, or any other number of things.  Sure, pretending like you’ve got a limp hand and an effeminate voice is an easy laugh for your kids, but at what cost?  You’re an example, and when your kid is in the locker room with his buddies, making fun of a peer, the thought will cross his mind, “Well, my dad did it, so it can’t be that bad.”  It seems like something small, but it can add up to something big.  Be mindful of making your kids laugh without teaching or demonstrating disrespect towards others.

Parents have the ability to eradicate the gay-bullying epidemic.  It takes patience, it takes discipline, and it can sometimes be uncomfortable.  But every child deserves to be respected, no matter who they are.

Don’t you think it’s time we show them how to do it?


About Erin:

Erin is a displaced Texan, happy to be living in the greatest city in the South. She’s the mom of 18-month-old Alice Holland, and the wife of Ben.

Event of the Week: Beaker Bash, McWane Science Center

Posted on by Angie

Calling all magicians…

McWane Science Center is mixing up the most magical fundraiser of the year. Beaker Bash, the annual event benefitting the museum, is a chance for families to explore the museum, experience amazing programs and shows, enjoy great food and help the Science Center continue its mission to change lives through science and wonder.

Beaker Bash: The Magic of Science will feature a creative concoction of tricks, treats and magic shows throughout the night. Guests will learn the science behind optical illusions, magic tricks and explosive demonstrations.

As a nonprofit organization, McWane Science Center depends on the proceeds from Beaker Bash to help serve nearly 400,000 visitors a year and inspire the next generation future scientists.

Saturday February 5th – 6 – 9pm

BirminghamMommy.com has a 4 pack of tickets to giveaway for the event.. We’ll make it easy on your to win.

1. Leave a comment on this post – 1 per person, per day

2. Go over and like McWane on Facebook – leave us a comment here letting us know that you did – 1 per person

Giveaway will end on Wednesday at noon – we will notify winner via email.

To purchase tickets:
Tickets start at $25. Call (205) 714-8414 or buy online.

Birmingham Events Calendar: January 30th – February 6th

Posted on by Angie

This week we’ll be moving into the “Love Month.”  Valentines for Children’s Hospital will be kicking off at libraries all around town. Check our complete list for locations and times.

Groundhogs day is Wednesday, will Birmingham Bill see his shadow? Will it be an early spring? Please oh please let it be an early spring!!

Roger Day will be back at Hoover Library to entertain the masses! We’ve got a LEGO Mini Build, 10 cent cookies and a Home Depot workshop! What to do, What to do…

Whatever you decide to do, we hope you have a great week and be sure to check this page often throughout the week as it’s constantly updated!

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

Sunday January 30th:

Ringling Bros and Barnum Bailey Circus – BJCC
1:00pm and 5:00pm

Barts Art Cart, Spin Your Own Work of Art – Birmingham Museum of Art
Take inspiration from the Museum’s current exhibition, Spiral: Perspectives on an African-American Art Collective, and come spin your own work of 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 31st:

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 February 1st:

10 Cent Cookie Tuesday – Whole Foods
Barring any cookie monster attacks we’ll have our silver dollar-size chocolate chip cookies, baked fresh in the Bakery, for just 10 cents each. Buy a whole bushel and freeze them for later!
While Supplies Last

Lego Mini Build – Riverchase Galleria
LEGO Skier
One free per child. Event is open to children ages 6 to 14 only.
5pm until supplies last

Together Time – Emmet O’Neal Library
Action-packed storytime The Letter “Q”
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 2nd:

Groundhog Day – Birmingham Zoo
Birmingham Bill will make his prediction of a longer winter or spring’s soon arrival. This event will take place on the Wildlife Stage. Afterwards, enjoy a 20 minute wildlife show featuring native Alabama animals and opportunities to have photographs with Bill the groundhog.
10:00am

Wonderful Wednesday Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us for a special Groundhog Day storytime today. We’ll read Brownie Groundhog and the February Fox by Susan Blackaby. Fun activities to follow!
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 February 3rd:

Roger Day – Hoover Library
A jam-packed musical concert that encourages kids to SING LOUD, JUMP HIGH and DREAM BIG.  In the Library Theatre.
6:30 pm

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Friday February 4th:

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

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Saturday February 5th:

Hikes for Tykes Storytelling – Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Join nationally known story-teller, Ashley Hulsey Coutch, for a story, a hike and a song. Children will engage with nature through story and movement. Hands-on activities if the weather is not pleasant. Email ashley@freshairfamily.org for more information. Register by emailing events@freshairfamily.org
10am – 12pm

Beaker Bash – McWane Science Center
The Magic of Science will feature a creative concoction of tricks, treats and magic shows throughout the night. Guests will learn the science behind optical illusions, magic tricks and explosive demonstrations.

As a nonprofit organization, McWane Science Center depends on the proceeds from Beaker Bash to help serve nearly 400,000 visitors a year and inspire the next generation future scientists.
6 – 9pm

Tickets start at $25. Call (205) 714-8414 or buy online.

Kids Workshop – Home Depot
This week they will be building a Heart Shelf. Designed for ages 5-12.

The Home Depot’s Kids Workshops offer useful projects including the creation of toolboxes, fire trucks and mail organizers, as well as more educational projects, such as a window birdhouse, bughouse or Declaration of Independence frame kit.

The workshops teach children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, this fun time allows for quality one-on-one time between adults and children.

In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates’ aprons, and an achievement pin.

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
Valentine’s Day fast approaches, so today we’re reading a book about “puppy love,” Smooch Your Pooch by Teddy Slater and Arthur Howard. Afterward, we’ll play a fun game called Give a Dog a Bone.
11:00am

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Sunday February 6th:

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!

The Artists behind the "You are Beautiful" Project talk with BirminghamMommy.com

Posted on by Angie

They’ve been painting our town “beautiful” for months now, but their identity and reasons have remained a secret. While they still wish to remain anonymous, they were kind enough to answer some questions that we know you’ve been asking yourself.

Here we get a little more insight to their vision and purpose for this project that we like to think of as a Daily Affirmation for the Magic City!


How many people are involved in the You Are Beautiful campaign in
 Birmingham?  Are you all from Birmingham?

“There are two people involved in the You Are Beautiful Birmingham campaign.  We both grew up in the Greater Birmingham area.”

This is part of a broader art project in other cities, right?  What’s the 
connection to Birmingham?  How many total have you painted here?

“Yes, the message is part of an international campaign. The original people behind the idea have moved on, and people around the world have taken it upon themselves to spread the message.  In Birmingham there are seven large pieces and several smaller stencils downtown. ”

Have you asked permission before any of the projects?

“Not successfully other than our current mural in Homewood.

”

What do you want people in Birmingham to take away from viewing your work?

“We want people to find meaning in the message on an individual and community wide basis.  In general, we want to have a positive influence in the city. ”

Why do you think Birmingham needs this message now?

“We think that it’s time the city had a visual acknowledgement of how great it is.”

Since you are remaining anonymous, how are you getting feedback from 
viewers?  What’s the reaction been like?

“We get feedback via Facebook, word of mouth, even in person although they may not know it’s us.”

What’s your distinction between graffiti and art?  Are they mutually
 exclusive?

“Graffiti is anything done without permission, and not all graffiti is considered art. It’s more on a personal level.  It’s all about how it makes you feel”

Are you concerned that some people will miss the message because of the 
illegal nature of the art?“

“We know that we can’t please everyone who views our pieces, and we’re not trying to.  The people that do appreciate the message make it worthwhile”

What’s the closest you’ve come to getting caught?

“Usually before beginning a piece we see a cop passing. That’s about it. We like to think of it as a good omen.”

We see that your Facebook page has over 1,000 people on it. How do you
 plan on using their support to further the message through social 
networking?

“We don’t really plan on using our page unless we’re posting pictures of recent pieces. We don’t use it for any sort of advertising or debate.”

What do you want to see happen next for the You Are Beautiful campaign?

“We would like for it to become a citywide art project. Either way we’re going to continue painting.”

Last question:  Do you do kid’s rooms?

“Haha. I don’t think that’s our target audience. Only public pieces for now…”


Due to sign ordinances, the project they referred to in Homewood will be going before the Homewood City Council on Monday, January 31st at 6:00pm. They could use support from the community to explain to the city why this is a good thing.. Come out and join us to help further this project!

Photo courtesy of: Operation Beautiful

Mommy Voices: Tell Us What You're Thinking

Posted on by Angie

BirminghamMommy.com is launching a new editorial style column where we feature articles written
by you, our readers.

This will be your chance to sound off, to write about something that is important to you or has been weighing on your mind. Hot topics or every day Mom stuff. Tell us what you think about TSA Body Scans or Food recalls, Katy Perry and Elmo, we may feature your article on the site in the coming months.

Submissions should be approximately 500 words in length and are all subject to editing. If you would like to submit an article for consideration, please email to: angie@birminghammommy.com and include a short 2-3 line bio, we want to know a little about you too!

Medical Minute: Birth Plan

Posted on by Angie

New moms… once upon a time we were all new and nervous.  THAT is going to come out of WHAT?  We all said it, we all wouldn’t trade it for the world.  Before you pack the bag and paint the nursery, take some time to think about the birthing experience and how you want it to go.  You can’t predict the future, but you can be informed and make your preferences known to avoid disappointment and conflict.

A birth plan is a communication tool that summarizes how you want different aspects of your baby’s birth to be handled. It is not a contract, but rather a simple, clear, one- to two-page statement that outlines your choices. The birth plan is a guideline that can be changed at any time and should be flexible in case something comes up at the hospital or you change your mind after labor begins.

It is probably best not to wait until the last minute to create your birth plan. You might want to discuss your choices with your health care provider and ask for feedback or suggestions. Once you have completed your birth plan, give a copy to your doctor, send one to the hospital where you plan to give birth, and pack one to take with you on the day you give birth. Some topics you might want to address in the birth plan include the following:

  • Who do you want in the delivery room? (partner, parents, family, friends or other siblings)  **TIP:  Think of a code word with your nurse to clear the room if you want privacy but don’t want to offend the visitors.  Mine was “Could I get some grape juice?”  My nurse would then tell my visitors it was time to go.  I loved her for that!**
  • How do you want to manage your labor? (walk around, change positions or labor in a birthing tub or shower)
  • Do you want to wear your own clothes or a hospital gown?  **TIP:  Wait until afterwards to even think of wearing your clothes.  One word: stains. **
  • Do you want to wear your glasses or contact lenses (if possible)?
  • What kind of environment do you want during labor? (play your own music, dim the lights and have minimal interruptions)
  • What do you want to do to relieve pain? (massage, medications, breathing exercises or hot and cold packs)
  • Do you want to avoid induction or an episiotomy unless medically necessary?
  • Would you prefer a routine IV, heparin/saline block or nothing at all?
  • How often do you want fetal monitoring?
  • Do you have any special requests in case you need to have a Cesarean delivery?
  • Is videotaping or photography allowed in the delivery room?
  • Who will cut the umbilical cord?
  • Will you bank the umbilical cord blood?
  • Do you want your baby immediately placed on your stomach/chest after delivery?
  • Do you want to breastfeed?
  • Do you want your baby to room-in with you?
  • Can your baby have a pacifier?
  • If you have a boy, do you want him to be circumcised?

A birth plan can help you feel more confident about the upcoming birth and part of the decision making process even if there are unforeseen circumstances.

Medical information provided by:  Brookwood Women’s Medical Center

Valentines for Children's Hospital

Posted on by Angie

Each year local libraries start accepting Valentine cards that they will donate to the children at Children’s Hospital. This activity is one of our “favorite things.” We think this is a fantastic way to get even the smallest of kiddos involved in giving back. If your children love to color, give them some valentine hued crayons and markers and let them get to work. Better yet, host a playdate and have all of the kids make cards, it’s a win/win!  Just think about how happy they will make a child in need of smile!

Check the list below for libraries around the area that are participating by collecting or providing the supplies to make the cards.

(in order of date)

Gardendale Public Library
February 1st
Kids Bookclub – 4th – 6th grade – Book Club Discussion and make Valentines for Children’s Hospital.
3:30 – 4:00pm

Hoover Public Library
February 1st – 11th
Bring a homemade or store-bought valentine (NO CANDY, PLEASE) for the patients at Children’s Hospital, and receive a holiday prize.

Irondale Library
February 1st – 9th
Drop by the Library anytime between February 1st – February 9th to make a valentine to send to Children’s Hospital!

Eastlake Public Library
Wednesday February 2nd
Saturday February 5th
Monday February 7th
Wednesday February 9th
Sweethearts for Children’s Hospital

Emmet O’Neal Library
Sunday February 6th – Thursday February 13th
Stop by the Children’s desk to create a card.

Homewood Public Library
Monday February 7th
Stop by to create a card
2:30pm – 5:00pm

Leeds Library
Monday February 7th – Thursday February 10th
All supplies will be provided. This is for EVERYONE! Not artistic? There will be simple store bought Valentines for you to sign.

Southside Public Library
Thursday February 10th
Teen Time Valentine – Enjoy making special valentines for Children’s Hospital
4pm – 5pm

A Mother's Shade of Green: Green Living Doesn't have to be Expensive or Complicated

Posted on by Angie

By Kate Agliata:

The laundry is piling up, e-mails need responding, and your 3rd grader still needs help with her homework—you have enough on your plate as it is, without the added pressure to transform your entire lifestyle toward greener living. I hear you, really. Not to mention, buying organic (anything) can, at times, be a bit pricey. But before you give me an Amen sister, you should know that green living doesn’t have to be as time consuming, complicated, or even as expensive as you think. In fact, these are often some of the greatest misconceptions about making green changes to your life. Being environmentally aware means striving to make the planet a better place to live; but for you and your family, it also means making healthy choices, and also about living more simply, so that you can enjoy more of life—concepts you probably already strive toward. The most important first step you can take toward living a greener lifestyle is to do away with the pressure and expectations you feel about it all. Looking beyond the big (and often intimidating) picture of green living can allow you and your family the freedom you need to set simple, realistic, and manageable goals. Here are several easy, yet efficient ways to green certain aspects of your life, without breaking the bank.

Recycle- This one is easy. It’s also a great place to rev up the family’s motivational factor by getting everyone involved. Make it a game to see who can keep more recyclable items out of the trash, and placed into the recycling bin. Depending on where you live, you might already have weekly curbside recycling pickup available. If that isn’t the case however, many contracted garbage collectors now offer recycling pickup for a small, additional monthly fee (an extra $5/month gets my recycling picked up biweekly by Waste Management). There are also numerous conveniently located area recycling centers that accept drop offs.

Kick the bottled water habit- In this well developed world in which we live, bottled water is typically no healthier than the water that comes straight from your home water tap. If you are among those who purchase bottled water strictly for the taste, you may want to consider installing a water purifier into your home’s water system. Approximately 80% of plastic water bottles are not recycled each year, and instead, end up in landfills, lakes, rivers and oceans, causing substantial environmental damage. In addition, the U.S. alone utilizes an astonishing 1.5 million barrels of oil for mere production of plastic water bottles. Ditching the disposable habit and simply buying a few reusable water bottles for your household will not only save you loads of money, but it’s also another easy and realistic way to live greener.

Reusable shopping bags- Similarly to plastic water bottles, plastic bags account for a significant amount of environmental pollution, in fact, less than 1% of them are recycled each year. Additionally, the manufacturing process of plastic bags requires the use of numerous toxic hazards in its production. Using cloth bags instead of plastic, is quickly becoming the trendy thing to do, so it should be easy, right? That is…only if you could remember to actually bring them to the store each time, right? Don’t sweat it. It typically takes an average of four weeks to make an act into a habit. Stick with it. You’ll be lugging two weeks’ worth of groceries in canvas bags from the car before you know it.

Shop local-Farmer’s Markets- The foods we tend to buy at grocery stores have typically already traveled great distances. This transportation requires extensive use of fossil fuel energy and results in the emission of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas, and the leading contributor to global warming. Next time you head out to shop, give the big box stores a rest and instead pay a visit to the local, little guy in town. Farmer’s markets provide a fun outing for the whole family, often offering live music, arts and free samples as well. They give you a great reason to shop locally, eat fresher foods, and because you’re buying direct, you’ll tend to reduce your grocery bill as well.

Eat less red meat- When you cut out a portion of your family’s weekly red meat intake, you’re not only saving some green in your wallet, you’re also helping to drastically reduce the greenhouse gas emissions associated with the production of red meat. Designate one to two dinners a week as being meatless nights and you’ll feel good about making significant strides toward greener living.

Buy (gently) used- Buying used clothing or other items, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality or this year’s fashion trends. Trust me, I know, you have enough of a hard time justifying spending oodles of money on a coat you’ll wear for the next five years, let alone spending the same oodles of money on a coat your three-year-old will wear for the next three months. This is where consignment sales come into the picture—I promise you, everyone goes to them (yes, even your snobby neighbor whose daughter exclusively wears Hannah Anderson). Arrive early enough to one of these consignment events and presto, you still have complete access to well-made, quality clothing; only you’re not relinquishing a small fortune in exchange by shopping this way. Thrift stores, yard sales, and Web sites like craigslist.com, are also other great options for scoring gently used items.

Give experiences, not stuff- It’s a given, being human means that you will create, obtain, and bring into your life an enormous amount of stuff. Add children, and guilt, I mean gifts, associated with holidays and birthdays, and your household almost instantaneously becomes filled with a plethora of clutter, knickknacks, and other, often unidentifiable objects. Although you can’t control what others give you, you can however, take a personal, greener step in reducing the craziness through your own gift giving efforts. The next time your child is invited to a birthday party, give a gift certificate to spend an afternoon ice skating or toward the indulgence of special treats at a local ice cream shop—instead of buying another Barbie doll or race car. Web sites such as BigBham, and other deal of the day sites, are great resources in finding daily deals on local and unique experiences.

Resources:

1.) Shelby County area drop off recycling centers:
http://www.aeconline.org/recycling/shelbycounty
2.) The city of Birmingham drop off recycling center:
http://www.aeconline.org/recycling/center

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.

Event of the Week: Spencers Theater of Illusion

Posted on by Angie

Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center Presents a fantastic show for the whole family!

Prepare to be mystified! Named International Magicians of the Year and Performing Arts Entertainers of the Year (Six Times), the Spencers dazzle audiences with their never-seen-before illusions.

Theatre of Illusion is much more than a magic show. Take your seat and you’ll cross over a threshold of disbelief only moments after the Spencers take the stage. The duo presents a high-tech stage show that combines drama, comedy, romance, and suspense that’s chock-full of elaborate stage illusions that include dazzling special effects and magnificent set design. Working with some of the leading creators, inventors, designers, and builders in the industry, the Spencers feature many original illusions that you simply won’t see anywhere else. Don’t miss it!

$1 of every ticket will benefit the Children’s Miracle Network.

Performances

  • Friday, January 28, 2011 · 8 PM
    Adults: $37 · Kids: $17 · tickets

Birmingham Events Calendar: January 23rd – January 30th

Posted on by Angie

Bring in the clowns! The Ringling Bros. and Barnum Bailey Circus will be rolling into Birmingham this week and they will be parading to the BJCC, maybe you can catch a peek! Alys Stephens will be presenting The Spencers Theatre of Illusion on Friday, a fantastic show for the entire family! Catch a movie at Homewood library,  or spin some art with Bart’s Art Cart at the Birmingham Museum of Art! Lots to choose from this week! What will you do?

Make sure to check back throughout the week, we update the calendar as we learn of more events! Have a great week!

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

Sunday January 23rd:

Barts Art Cart, Spin Your Own Work of Art – Birmingham Museum of Art
Take inspiration from the Museum’s current exhibition, Spiral: Perspectives on an African-American Art Collective, and come spin your own work of art!
11:00am – 1:00pm

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 24th:

Monday Movie – Homewood Library
Pop on in for a fun flick and tasty treat!
3:30pm

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Tuesday January 25th:

Ringling Bros and Barnum Bailey Circus Parade
Vanderbilt Road to Richard Arrington Blvd then Right on 19th Street
10am  *Time is subject to change depending on their arrival

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

Together Time – Emmet O’Neal Library
Action-packed storytime with Ms. NayNay.
All ages. 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

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

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Wednesday January 26th:

Ringling Bros and Barnum Bailey Circus, Fully Charged – BJCC
7:30pm

Anime Day – Homewood Library
Grades 6-12 only. Join us after school for snacks, anime and fun with your friends. (We’ll be meeting in the Large Auditorum.)
3:30 – 4:30

Wonderful Wednesday Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Please join us as we read Russell the Sheep. Can you help Russell go to sleep?
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 January 27th:

Ringling Bros and Barnum Bailey Circus – BJCC
10:30am and 7:30pm

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Friday January 28th:

Spencers Theatre of Illusion – Alys Stephens Center
Alys Robinson Stephens Performing Arts Center Presents a fantastic show for the whole family!

Prepare to be mystified! Named International Magicians of the Year and Performing Arts Entertainers of the Year (Six Times), the Spencers dazzle audiences with their never-seen-before illusions.

Theatre of Illusion is much more than a magic show. Take your seat and you’ll cross over a threshold of disbelief only moments after the Spencers take the stage. The duo presents a high-tech stage show that combines drama, comedy, romance, and suspense that’s chock-full of elaborate stage illusions that include dazzling special effects and magnificent set design. Working with some of the leading creators, inventors, designers, and builders in the industry, the Spencers feature many original illusions that you simply won’t see anywhere else. Don’t miss it!

$1 of every ticket will benefit the Children’s Miracle Network.
Adults: $37 · Kids: $17 · tickets
8pm

Ringling Bros and Barnum Bailey Circus – BJCC
10:30am and 7:30pm

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

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Saturday January 29th:

Ringling Bros and Barnum Bailey Circus – BJCC
11:30am, 3:30 and 7:30pm

Barts Art Cart, Spin Your Own Work of Art – Birmingham Museum of Art
Take inspiration from the Museum’s current exhibition, Spiral: Perspectives on an African-American Art Collective, and come spin your own work of art!
11:00am – 1:00pm

Super Saturday Storytime – Barnes and Noble Summit
Join us as we read Llama Llama Red Pajama!
11:00am

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Sunday January 30th:

Ringling Bros and Barnum Bailey Circus – BJCC
1:00pm and 5:00pm

Barts Art Cart, Spin Your Own Work of Art – Birmingham Museum of Art
Take inspiration from the Museum’s current exhibition, Spiral: Perspectives on an African-American Art Collective, and come spin your own work of art!
11:00am – 1:00pm

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!

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