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Scarecrows in the Garden

The Aldridge Gardens annual “Scarecrows in the Garden” exhibit will open September 29, 2008 and run until October 31, 2008. This is always a hit for us Mommies and the kiddos love the scarecrows (ok, so we do too!)

With more than 30 scarecrows created by local business, individuals, organizations and schools, you’re sure to get an eyeful as you stroll leisurely through the garden.

Also, don’t forget to vote for “Most Unique”, “Funniest”, “Best School Related” and “People’s Choice.” Admission is free.

Sample Sale

Stacy Claire Boyd, one of the countries largest stationary manufacturers is opening it’s doors to the public for the first time ever for a Sample Sale!!

They will feature Stacy’s signature line of baby clothes as well as hundreds of bulk stock styles of:

  • Holiday Cards and Gift Tags
  • Birth Announcements
  • Personal Stationary
  • Foldover and Flat Notecards
  • Die Cuts, Ribbons, Buttons and other Embellishments

When:

Saturday, September 27th – 8am – 1pm
Sunday, September 28th – 1pm – 5pm

Where:

Stacy Claire Boyd Company Headquarters
3750 Corporate Woods Drive, Birmingham, AL 35242

Directions:

I-459 – Liberty Park exit 23, right on to Overton Road, continue straight onto Liberty Parkway, left onto Urban Center Parkway, right onto Corporate Woods Drive, first left into Stacy Claire Boyd parking lot.

Would you microchip your child?

Let’s face it, there are some scary people in the world. One of the hardest struggles of my life is letting go of my children and letting them go into a scary world. I am terrified of what or who may try to hurt them. The thought of one or both of them being lost or kidnapped makes my stomach turn. The feeling of helplessness… I’m just not sure I could bear it.

Which leads me to this question,

Would you microchip your child?

It sounds crazy, but we microchip our cars and even our pets… things we don’t want stolen or lost. Is it so crazy to microchip our children? When they hit a certain age, the microchip could easily be taken out. I don’t think the appropriate reason would be to spy, but rather for emergency use only.

We’d love to know, what do you think about child-microchipping?

Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival! A Must See!

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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.