Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival! A Must See!

Posted on Sunday, September 21, 2008 by Angie

This year the Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival celebrates its 10th year here in the Magic City and things couldn’t be looking brighter! And while there is more than enough to keep Mom and Dad busy (really… you should check it out) for the entire weekend, don’t forget the Children’s Film Extravaganza hosted by the Rushton Theatre at the McWane Center.

Located on the 3rd Avenue side of the McWane Center (just next door to the Alabama Theatre), the Children’s Film Extravaganza hosts programming all day long which caters to film aficionados from toddlers to teens!

On Sunday, you’ll find a mix of programming from the day before, so that you can dip back in – just in case you missed something – or your little one just has to see one all over again. So, I know where we’ll be this weekend – how about you?

Sidewalk Festival
September 26-28, 2008
For the latest information, including programming, ticket information and more, click here

Park Review: Overton Park

Posted on Saturday, September 20, 2008 by Angie

Yes folks! Fall is right around the corner!! Cooler temperatures, crisp leaves, and relief from the summer! It’s time to start thinking about outdoor play and parks!

This park is one of Birmingham’s best kept secrets! Overton Park is situated on Overton Drive in Mountain Brook. It is the perfect park for a toddler. There is a large FENCED green area for general running and play, with a walking path paved around the whole thing. The playground is geared towards toddlers, but there are things for the younger and older too. None of the equipment is too high or dangerous. One drawback is that the covered eating area only consists of a few tables, but just make sure to bring a blanket and picnic instead! The fenced area makes it easy to keep kids contained, and because the park is small, it is easy to keep an eye on the kiddos. There are swings for big kids and for the babes too. There are also tennis courts if you want that as an option!
Check it out, there’s a Bruster’s just down the street where you can get a scoop of birthday cake ice cream on your way!

Spotlight on Children's Photography

Posted on Friday, September 19, 2008 by Angie

There are so many photographers out there vying for your business… and all they ask in return is the contents of your wallet! Here at BirminghamMommy, we have found a favorite photographer in Birmingham. She is priced reasonably, as she is a mom herself and understands the financial demands that children place on you.
Images by Jeri is a local photographer that will come to your house or meet you on location and work wonders! She has photographed for us and we have been ecstatic with her results. The charge is a $75 session fee, and the prints are extremely affordable. In comparison with chain places, you may find that you have more “good” pictures to choose from. Her website has a complete listing of prices and a gallery to view.

Our other option is Jason Wallis. He is a nationally known photographer based here in Birmingham. His work is phenomenal, to say the least. He’s not cheap though. The session fee alone will be in the several hundred dollar range. He may be one to save for though!

Bargain Costume Closet Sale at The Children's Dance Foundation

Posted on Thursday, September 18, 2008 by Angie

Head on out to the Children’s Dance Foundation on September 21st for their annual Bargain Costume Closet Sale! All proceeds benefit CDF so you can grab some great bargains for a great cause!

You’ll find new and used costumes, dress-up wear, dancewear, shoes, accessories and much more. Make a donation before Sept. 21st, and you will receive a pass to shop early. No entry fee to shop, so bring friends!

The skinny:
Sunday, September 21st
2-4pm
Children’s Dance Foundation
1715 27th Court South
Downtown Homewood behind Ed’s Pet World

B.Y.O.B – Amstar Cinemas

Posted on Wednesday, September 17, 2008 by Angie

Bring Your Own Baby!

Sorry if you thought this post would be about bringing adult beverages into the movie…. although, would that be such a bad idea?

As a parent of little ones, and a parent who likes to go to the movies, I have often wondered how to mix the two. I was always afraid that a large movie theater would be too loud for their little ears, or their “little” screams would be too loud for the other movie goers. Thanks to Am Star Cinemas in Alabaster, we can have the best of both worlds.

Am Star Cinemas sponsors a program for parents and their little ones. In a special auditorium, with lighting maintained at half level, and sound adjusted to a comfortable social level, you are free to take your little ones into the movie without the pressure of having to make sure they don’t disturb the entire theater, in fact cooing is encouraged!

Am Star Cinemas – Alabaster
Every Tuesday – Times and Shows will vary.

Event: Jump N Jacks, Grand Opening

Posted on Wednesday, September 17, 2008 by Angie

A new children’s store is opening on Southside. Jump N Jacks is sure to please with a wide variety of items. Children’s books, monogramming, educational and developmental toys, crafts and much more. They can be a one stop shop for birthday and gift ideas, offering free gift wrap with your purchase.

The store will open on September 29th, with a Grand Opening Celebration scheduled for October 4th. Drop by and enjoy costumed characters, face painting, arts & crafts, refreshments and door prizes.

Coupons available in the Sept-October issue of Clipper Magazine.

1611 11th Avenue South
2 blocks from UAB Highlands Hospital

Free Children's Books!

Posted on Monday, September 15, 2008 by Angie

Just a reminder:
If you’re a Jefferson County resident, please take advantage of a wonderful literacy program funded by the Dolly Parton Foundation and administered by the Junior League of Birmingham.

Imagination Library ~ One free age-appropriate hardcover book per month, per child, up to age 5.

Morgan Creek Grape Stomp

Posted on Saturday, September 13, 2008 by Angie

Head on out to the Morgan Creek Winery and take part in a good old fashioned grape stomp! Yes, just like Lucy! Join them as the summer Music and Fireworks series draws to a close.

In addition to the stomping, there will be live music, food, a grape harvester demonstration and a Lucy-Look-A-Like Contest! We can’t think of a better way to welcome fall than with a wonderful afternoon at a winery!

Bring a blanket & chairs and veg out as you listen to the music, then stick around for the fireworks at 9 pm! Wine tasting, winery tours and wine by the glass or bottle will be available. Food is also available for those who don’t pack a picnic. Cost is $10

When: September 20th
Where: Morgan Creek Winery, Harpersville, AL
For more information, including times, visit their website

Restaurant Review: Newk's

Posted on Friday, September 12, 2008 by Angie

The mommies and I headed out for lunch the other day. We’re looking for healthy food, kid friendly atmosphere, and prices that won’t make the husbands complain. We headed to Newk’s in Mountain Brook, and it was delicious! It was also CLEAN. I love going anywhere that is clean, it puts me at ease instantly. The menu was great, boasting sandwiches and salads, soups, and desserts too.

Here’s our breakdown:
Clean
Lots of seating, but only a handful of highchairs (maybe there were more in the back?)
Great variety of fresh choices on the menu
Prices were a bit higher than most sandwich places, but the sandwiches were also a bit higher quality (My sandwich, side, and drink was near $10)
Kids menu available

All in all, I would say it was a great lunch. I wouldn’t attempt to go with kids if it’s crowded though. And due to the prices, I wouldn’t go weekly. But it would be a yummy treat! Think Jason’s Deli on steroids.

Locations, downtown and Mountain Brook
Menu

Event: Birmingham Greek Food Festival

Posted on Thursday, September 11, 2008 by Angie

How about a taste of Athens right here in the Magic City? If you are looking for something to do this weekend with the family, head on down to the Greek Food Festival. Having started in 1972 the festival offers, authentic Greek cuisine, souvenirs and Greek dancing. Admission is free.

When:
September 11, 12, and 13 of 2008
10:30 AM – 10:00 PM

Where:
Holy Trinity Holy Cross
Greek Orthodox Cathedral
307 19th Street South
Birmingham, AL 35233