Introducing....Rendi Stylist Jessie Smith!

I am so excited about this blogpost. One of my main goals of my blog was not only to provide all of my readers with information about fun and affordable events for your kids, but also connect Mom's with other Mom's who have small businesses or provide services. I think being a mom is one of the highest callings in life, but I love and admire Mom's who find awesome ways to use their skills and talents to also make a living. I have many friends who have started their own businesses or work as independent consultants for companies such as Pampered Chef, Mary Kay, Stella and Dot, Arbonne, ect.
Well just recently I met Jessie, who is an Independent Stylist for a company called Rendi. I only had to spend a few minutes browsing around her website to fall in love with, well, pretty much everything! Home Decor at it's best, you can create something special for just about any room in your house! And don't even worry about finding that perfect gift for someone, if you are looking for something personal and meaningful, this company has exactly what you want. Rendi is one of the hottest new direct sales companies, specializing in beautiful customizable frames and home decor. One thing I love is that it allows it's customers to create one-of-a-kind creations for yourself, or as special gifts.
Another unique thing about this company is that they use 100% recycled wood, AND participate with an amazing charity! A portion of every sale goes to "Charity:Water" which is an organization that is dedicated to bringing fresh drinking water to millions of people in Africa and Asia. Just this alone makes me want to buy from this company, knowing that I am getting wonderful products as well as contributing to this wonderful charity!
Every product that Rendi offers is extremely unique and made with superior quality and excellent craftsmanship. When you purchase from Rendi, your order is shipped directly to you within 48 hours of being received. Also, in my opinion, all these products are extremely affordable! If you know me, you know that I am addicted to Pinterest and Etsy. I adore signs and frames, but usually the ones I love are extremely expensive! Rendi's products are so affordable!

As I was talking to Jessie about Rendi, I asked her to tell me why she loves selling Rendi so much. I don't think she could have given me a better answer. She said she was "looking for a fantastic business opportunity that was tied to something she could be passionate about." I LOVE THAT!!! Jessie is a stay at home mom that has found a business that is a perfect fit for balancing her family and a career!
I also asked her what her favorite pieces were and why. She honestly couldn't pick just one! She told me she sincerely loved each and every Rendi frame and sign simply because most every piece is completely customizable from wording, to text, to size and color! She told me that the clip frames seem to be a customer favorite because they make displaying and updating pictures so easy. Top sellers this past month were the "Picture This!" line as well as the "Pure Cottage" tag, hanging sign, and clip frames.

Jessie also is excited about continuing to build her team. This company is a great business for any Mom to get involved with, because as an Independent stylist, you can be your own business owner and still have the time for all your regular Mommy duties! Because Rendi is so new, there are currently 14 stylist in Maryland which allows you to really build clientele. Rendi founder, Annie Danielson, has a passion to empower women through career, community and creativity. Jessie is just as passionate about helping people find that unique keepsake or gift! Jessie makes a significant commission on her sales that is adding some extra money to her household budget, but with the way things are going, she anticipates that it will soon exceed a full-time income!

Jessie is looking to spread the word about Rendi, and is excited to book as many parties and vendor shows as possible! So if you are thinking it might be fun to host a party, she is ready! She is also looking for NEW STYLIST to join her team! If this company sounds like something you want to be a part of (and why wouldn't you!?!?) contact her right away! "Like" her Facebook page to hear all the Rendi specials and deals firsthand! January, there are 2 AWESOME specials going on! BUY TWO, GET ONE FREE is one amazing offer, as well as a RENDI STYLIST KIT FOR ONLY $99!!

Ok, so are you excited to take a look at these products?!? Just from writing this post I am excited to go back and look at all this great home decor and I just looked at the website last night! Check out Jessie's site and see what you think! I promise you won't be disappointed. And if you want to host a party, or are ready to purchase right now, contact Jessie. Here is all her info, she can't wait to hear from you!

Jessie Smith
Independent Rendi Stylist
E-mail: customizeit209@gmail.com
Phone: 240-216-7661
WEBSITE
FACEBOOK

Now go check out the great products, and then go "Like" her Facebook page to hear about all the great specials! :) 

A Few Special Deals For You

I know it's just after Christmas, but these deals are not ones you want to miss! A magazine subscription for you, and one for the kids :)

Half Off Subscription For Your Animal Lover

2 Year Parent's Magazine For You!

Some Fun This Week

Looking for something fun to do these days after Christmas? Here are a few things I thought were worth checking out, especially if you are out and about, using those gift cards at the mall, or letting the kids take a break from playing with all their new toys. Definitely check out the Grand Opening of the Ice Rink in Rockville, it looks like a fun filled evening!

WEDNESDAY

Montgomery Mall Bethesda
Family Fun Day 10:30am lower level near Macy's
Free themed activities, music, crafts, ect!

Chick-fil-A Kids Night 6-8pm
Bubble Bounce Night

Rockville Town Center Square
Ice Skating Rink Grand Opening 6pm-10pm
Join us for the grand opening of the ice rink at Rockville Town Square featuring US National Figure Skater and Olympian, Kimmie Meissner.

RSVP today!

Schedule of Events:

6:00-6:45pm                  Live Music

6:45 – 6:50pm              Opening remarks from Robin McBride, Federal Realty Investment
                                         Trust and Mayor Marcuccio of Rockville

6:55pm                          Special Guest US National Figure Skater and Olympian Kimmie
                                        Meissner will cut the ice

7:05 – 7:10pm              Special Performance from Kimmie Meissner

7:15 - 7:30pm               Special performance by U.S. National Champions in 
                                        Juvenile Ice Dance, Eliana Gropman & Ian Somerville

7:30pm                          Rink opens to the public. Receive a FREE Rockville Town Square
                                        traveler mug to all skaters (while supplies last.)

7:30pm  - 8:30pm        Meet and greet/autograph signing with Kimmie Meissner

7:30pm-10pm              Live music



THURSDAY

Downtown Frederick Library
10:00am-4:00pm
Lego Drop in Play!
Lego fans are invited to come to the library to build, create and play with others who are also crazy about LEGOS. The library provides the LEGOS, you provide the know-how! Just drop in between 10 to 4 pm and have some fun.

Special Deal to Old Navy

Take advantage of those after Christmas sales at Old Navy with this special deal!

Get $20 to spend at Old Navy for only $10! Woo hoo!!

Old Navy Deal

Great Deal on Pump It Up in Gaithersburg

Don't miss out on this great deal for 5 passes to Pump It Up in Gaithersburg!
$25 for 5 pop in play passes, don't miss this deal, your kids will thank you,
trust me, mine did :)

Pump It Up Deal

Great Deal at Montgomery Mall!

Check out this great deal on a pass to Bubble Bounce, Montgomery Mall's new kids Bounce Place

$5 for one full hour of bounce and play time, purchase as many as you like! And one of my favorite thing
about this place, is they sell healthy snacks for the kids when they are worn out from bouncing. :) Don't
miss this deal!

See Santa's Reindeer!

Just for fun!

Check out this live cam of Santa's Reindeer. Santa feeds them at 10:00am and 5:00pm :)
Your kids are sure to love this:

Reindeer Cam

This Week In Frederick County

Even though your counting down the few short days till Christmas, keep in mind that while your out and about there are some great reasons to take a break and have fun! Check out these fun events in Fred co.


MONDAY

Downtown Frederick Library
Starlight Family Storytime 6:30pm
Snuggle up for s story and feel free to wear your Jammies!
No registration required

TUESDAY

Downtown Frederick Library

Babies with Books 0-12 months
10:15am No registration required

Babies with Books 12-24 months
11:00am No registration required

Babies with Books 0-24 months
11:45am No registration required

Starlight Family Storytime
6:30pm Snuggle up and wear your favorite Jammies!

Urbana Library

Preschool Storytime 1:30pm
No registration required

Chick-Fil-A Urbana Pike
Kids Night 5-7pm
Facepaint by Vicki
Join us for a special night of food and face painting. We have Vicki here as our special entertainment. She will be doing some secial hoilday designs just for us! So show up early,we will hand out numbers to you for our facepainting so you can continue to eat while waiting for your turn in the makeup chair!


WEDNESDAY

Downtown Frederick Library

Wiggle Giggle Storytime
10:15 and 11:00am
Ages 2-5 no registration required

Urbana Library
Preschool Storytime 10:30am and 11:15am
No registration required

Barnes and Noble FSK Mall
10:30am Storytime
Christmas selections

THURSDAY

Downtown Frederick Library

Preschool Storytime 10:30am
No registration required

Babies with Books 0-24 months
2:30pm No registration required

Adventure Park USA
Storytime 11:00am 3-5 year
Come join us for a story and a fun activity to follow (free)
No registration required.

Add lunch and soft play for your child for only $4.50 *Lunch includes: Hotdog or PBJ, small fountain drink, chips or a dessert.

Add (3) 5 minute Moon Bounces for your child for just $2 more!

SATURDAY

PUMP IT UP FREDERICK
Special Event Jolly Jump with a visit from Santa! $12 per child
10:00am-2:00pm

Pump It Up Frederick Bounce Times
Monday-Friday Pop in Pre-K 10:00am-12pm $8 per child
Monday-Friday Family Jump 1:00pm-3:00pm $8 per child
Tues-Thurs Family Jump 6:00-8:00pm $8 per child
Friday Jump and Jam Tween Night 6:00-9:00pm $12 per child
Music, glow sticks, video games and fun. Ages 8-14

DONT FORGET TO LIKE MY PAGE ON FACEBOOK FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN SOME GREAT PRIZES!!

Looking For A Last Minute Gift??

If you need a gift for someone who is expecting a baby, has young kids, or even if you just want to get yourself something, check out this deal on a $5 yearly subscription to Parenting Magazine. You order through Amazon and can even send a gift announcement to the person you purchase it for. I already ordered mine. :) And while you at it, check out all the other great magazines Amazon has for $5!

Amazon $5 Magazine's

This Week in Montgomery County

There is less than a week left before Christmas, and I am sure everyone is as busy as I am! Between making Christmas crafts and cookies with my daughter, finishing last minute shopping, and preparing for the 15 people at my house on Christmas Day, this will be an insane week! If you manage to have any free moments though, check out what's going on this week, you may find something fun to squeeze in as your out and about finishing your errands!

ALSO, There is a new ice skating rink opening soon! A large outdoor ice skating rink is schedule to open in the Rockville Town Square sometime by the end of this year. Opening day has not been released yet, but when I find out, I will let you all know! Sounds so fun!!

WEDNESDAY

Barnes and Noble Washingtonian Center
Storytime 11:00am

Bounce U Clarksburg
Special Preschool Playdate
"candy cane hunt!"

Chick-Fil-A Montgomery Mall
Family Fun night 6-8pm
Ballon fun!


BOUNCING FUN

Romp and Roll Germantown Open Gym $7 per child, $10 per family
Mon-Thursday 1:45-4:00pm
Friday 1:45-7:30

Bounce U Clarksburg (get coupons HERE)

Preschool Playdate $8.95 per child
Mon/Tues/Fri 10:00am-12pm
Wed 12:30-2:30

Family Bounce
Tues 5:00pm
Thurs. 4:00pm

DONT FORGET TO "LIKE " US ON FACEBOOK! YOU CAN WIN PRIZES ONCE WE REACH 100 FANS!

3 Great Deals For Your Kids!

Have a daughter who loves to dance? Check out this great deal on 4 dance classes located in Sandy Spring.
Choose from all the different classes they offer and pay only $34 for 4 hour long classes!

Dance Class Deal

Does your child love horses? Have you thought about horseback riding lessons but aren't sure yet? Here is a great deal on 2 private riding lessons for only $55 located in Boyds (near Germantown)

Horseback Riding Deal

Kids need to blow off some steam? Check out these 2 great deals to choose from at Bounce U in Rockville or Clarksburg! $22 for 5 open bounce passes or $22 for winter break camp, you can't pass up this deal!

Bounce U Deal

A Family Friendly New Years!

Looking for something fun to do as a family for New Years Eve? I have the perfect places right here for you! Take your pick and have a blast counting down to the New Year with your littles!

ADVENTURE PARK USA NEW YEARS EVE CELEBRATION (New Market)

December 31 - 9pm-12:30am
 
Includes:
Unlimited Games & Attractions
DJ • Noise Makers • Door Prizes
FREE FOOD & DRINKS
Big Balloon Drop, Snacks and MORE!
 
Cost:
$25 At the Door
$20 Early Bird if you order online
$15 Kids under 5

Buy your tickets online to save money. The early bird cut off is DEC. 30th.
Tons of arcade games, laser tag, rock climbing wall, ropes course, ect. And there will be free food and snacks included in the price of your admission, or you may purchase any additional snacks from the cafeteria.
Form more information and to buy tickets, visit the WEBSITE

FIRST NIGHT ALEXANDRIA

First Night Alexandria is a family oriented, non-alcohol New Year's Eve celebration held on December 31 at dozens of venues throughout historic Old Town Alexandria. This year's celebration will include 100 live performances at 18 indoor venues, the Annual Fun Hunt, plus children’s entertainment and interactive games, and a spectacular midnight finale with lasers, video, and music at the George Washington Masonic Memorial. Free DASH shuttles and the King Street Trolley will transport participants to activities along King Street.
New this year, the finale will warm up with a dance party on the Memorial lawn beginning at 10 p.m. with tunes by DJ Ray Casino. At 11:30 p.m. the show goes multimedia, with video, music, and a swirling spectrum of colorful lasers, culminating in a midnight countdown and ball drop. Six thousand balls will drop on revelers. Party-goers will want to snag a ball so they can enter to win prizes.
COST: $15 before DEC. 19th, after $20 per person. Children 12 and under FREE!

For schedule of events, transportation, parking and all event info check out the EVENT WEBSITE

NEW YEARS ANNAPOLIS

New Year’s Annapolis is a family-oriented event based on the “First Night” concept that provides attendees with a fun-filled and safe environment for all ages to celebrate New Year's Eve. The event includes live musical entertainment and will feature two fireworks displays, an early show for families and early-risers and a traditional midnight spectacular to ring in 2012. All these New Years events are FREE!

Annapolis New Year's Eve Entertainment Schedule

3:00 - 7:30 p.m. Family Friendly Entertainment - "New Year's Around the World" theme.
7:30 p.m. Early Bird Fireworks Display
8:00 - 10:00 p.m. Party on the Dock with 8 Ohms Band
10:00 p.m. - midnight Party on the Dock with Higher Hands Band
Midnight - Fireworks Spectacular!

EVENT LOCATION: City Dock

Parking: Park at the Navy-Marine Corps Stadium at Rowe Boulevard and Taylor Avenue. Take the FREE, continuously running shuttle bus from the stadium parking lot to Lawyer's Mall, located at State Circle. The last bus leaves the stadium at 11:00 p.m. From Lawyer's Mall. Annapolis Transit shuttles will circulate around the entire event downtown all evening. Return trips from Lawyers Mall to the Navy-Marine Corps Stadium stop at 12:45 a.m

Best Places To Watch Fireworks:
Susan Campbell Park
Main Street
Northeast of the Severn River
Any of the parks that face Spa Creek
Aboard a boat in Annapolis Harbor

This Week in Frederick County

MONDAY

Downtown Frederick Library
6:30pm Starlight Family Storytime
Cuddle Up and wear your Jammies!

TUESDAY

Downtown Frederick Library
10:15am
Babies With Books: Birth to Twelve Months
Babies love books, too! Enjoy these interactive story programs designed for babies and their caregivers. Music, rhymes, and movement will delight your child. Tickets will be available on the day of the program for the first 17 parent/child pairs. This program is limited, so come early for your ticket. 

Downtown Frederick Library
Babies With Books: Twelve to Twenty Four Months
11:00am
Babies love books, too! Enjoy these interactive story programs designed for babies and their caregivers. Music, rhymes, and movement will delight your child. Tickets will be available on the day of the program for the first 17 parent/child pairs. This program is limited, so come early for your ticket. 

Downtown Frederick Library
Babies With Books: Birth to Twenty Four Months
11:45am
Babies love books, too! Enjoy these interactive story programs designed for babies and their caregivers. Music, rhymes, and movement will delight your child. Tickets will be available on the day of the program for the first 17 parent/child pairs. This program is limited, so come early for your ticket.

Downtown Frederick Library
Starlight Family Storytime
6:30pm
Snuggle up and wear your Jammies!

Urbana Library
Preschool Storytime 1:30pm
No registration required

Urbana Library
4:15pm Come out for holiday arts and crafts!
Free, register HERE

Urbana Library
Starlight Family Storytime
6:30pm snuggle up and wear your pajama's

Chick-fil-A kids night (Urbana Pike)
5pm-7pm
Balloon Art with Johnny O
Free 4 piece nugget meal with purchase of adult meal

WEDNESDAY

Barnes and Noble FSK Mall
Storytime 10:30am

Downtown Frederick Library
Wiggle Giggle Storytime 10:15 and 11:00
Wiggle Giggle Storytime is a 20 minute storytime for little listeners with extra energy! Dance and giggle and learn something new with stories and rhymes picked just for you! For ages 2-5 years old. 

Urbana Library
Preschool Storytime
10:30am and 11:15am

THURSDAY

Adventure Park USA
11:00am Free ages 3-5
Join for a story, then a free activity and craft
Add lunch and soft play for $4.50

Downtown Frederick Library
Preschool Storytime 10:30am

Downtown Frederick Library
2:30pm Babies with Books: Birth-24 months
Babies love books, too! Enjoy these interactive story programs designed for babies and their caregivers. Music, rhymes, and movement will delight your child. Tickets will be available on the day of the program for the first 17 parent/child pairs. This program is limited, so come early for your ticket.

Chick-fil-A
5-7pm Family Bingo Night
Fun and surprises for all!

FRIDAY

FSK Mall
Storytime with Mrs. Claus
10:00am Center Court
Enjoy a story, music and treats with Mrs. Claus!

SATURDAY

Lowes Store
Build and Grow children's workshop
10:00am
Build a Holiday Train Engine!
Free workshop register HERE

Chick-fil-A
Santa Cow is coming to town!
3-4:30pm stop by to have your picture taken with Santa Cow!


OPEN BOUNCE
PUMP IT UP FREDERICK
$8 per child

MON-FRI
Pop In Playtime Pre-K
10am-12:00pm

Family Jump Time
1:00-3:00pm

TUES & THURS
Family Jump Time
6:00-8:00pm

This Week in Montgomery County

Here are your picks for Montgomery County this week!


TUESDAY DEC 13th

Damascus Library
Stepping Stones Storytime 10:30am
Newborn-5 years

Chick-fil-A Germantown Town Center
Kids Night 5-8pm
Crafts with Ms. Merv
Free 4 piece nugget kids meal with purchase of adult meal!

WEDNESDAY DEC 14th

Montgomery Mall Bethesda
Family Fun Day
10:30am lower level near Macy's
FREE themed activities, music, crafts, and more!

Chick fil A Montgomery Mall food court
Family Fun Night
Back to Rock music 6-8pm

Rockville Town Square Holiday Open House
6:00pm
Activities Include:

6:00 – 6:30 pm  Karen LoveJoy Band, Holiday Music Preshow
6:30 pm  Santa’s Arrival, Tree Lighting with Eun Yang
6:30 – 9:00 pm  Hot cider and tasty bites from Gordon Biersch
6:45 – 9:30 pm  Horse and Carriage Rides
7:00 – 9:00 pm  Photos with Santa
7:00 – 7:30 pm  Dawn Crofton Dance Performance
8:00 – 8:30 pm   Musical Theater Center Singular Sensations Performance
8:30 – 9:30 pm   Karen LoveJoy Band, Holiday Music Performance Post Show

*Please bring an unwrapped, new toy to benefit the Montgomery County Housing Opportunities Commission

THURSDAY DEC 15th

Rockville Town Center Library
Storytime ages 3-6
10:30am

FRIDAY DEC 16th

Cabin John Mall
10:30am Fun Music with Peter McCory
Free children's entertainment, crafts, and more!

Chick-fil-A Germantown Town Center
Special craft night: Gingerbread Houses!
6-9pm


SATURDAY DEC 17th

Lowes Build and Grow Children's Workshop
Build a Train Engine
10:00am register HERE

Lakeforest Mall Gaithersburg
Holiday Musical Concerts while you shop
11am-4:00pm JCPenney court

Chick-fil-A Germantown Town Center
3-6pm Visit with Santa Cow and Elf Cow!


OPEN GYM'S

Romp and Roll Germantown
Ages 6 and under $7 per child or $10 per family
Monday-Thursday 1:45-4:00
Friday- 1:45-7:30

Bounce U Clarksburg
$8.95 per child, coupon HERE

Preschool Playdate
-Monday, Tuesday, Friday 10am-12pm
-Wednesday 12:30-2:30

All Ages Bounce Time
-Tuesday 5:00pm-7:00pm
-Wednesday and Thursday 4:00pm-6:00pm

50% Off Melissa and Doug!

I order from Amazon all the time and I have always been so pleased with them. Great prices, lots of items with free shipping, and super fast shipping! I thought this deal was too good to pass up since everyone I know loves these toys!

IF YOU LOVE MELISSA AND DOUG TOYS, TAKE A LOOK AT THIS SPECIAL!

ONE DAY ONLY DEC. 8th TAKE UP TO 50% OFF SELECT MELISSA AND DOUG TOYS ON AMAZON!

CHECK OUT THE DEAL HERE

*Also get free shipping on orders over $25!

Groupon Deal for Adventure Park USA!

Adventure Park USA in New Market is open year around! check out this great deal on Groupon:

Adventure Park Deal

Great Deal to the Playseum in Bethesda!

Check out this great deal on passes to the Playseum, priced at half off!

Playseum Deal

Check out these Lights!

Who doesn't like a great light show? If your looking for something to do one night, definitely hit one of these great spots
with the family!

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AT THE MORMON TEMPLE
9900 Stoneybrook Dr. Kensington, Maryland
December 2, 2011-January 1, 2012. Dusk to 10 pm
View more than 450,000 lights and a live outdoor Nativity Scene
Live musical performances begin at 7 and 8 pm

WINTER LIGHTS AT SENECA CREEK STATE PARK GAITHERSBURG
11950 Clopper Road, Gaithersburg, Maryland
Dec. 2 – 31, 2011 6 – 9 pm Friday and Saturday 6 – 10 pm (closed Mondays)
Winter Lights is a magical Christmas light display including more than 350 illuminated displays and along a 3.5-mile drive through the park
Tues-Thurs $12 per car, Fri-Sun $15 per car

GARDEN OF LIGHTS BROOKSIDE GARDENS
1800 Glenallen Avenue, Wheaton, Maryland
November 25, 2011- January 8, 2012 (closed Dec 24 & 25 and closed January 2-5
Hours: 5:30 to 9:00 pm last car admitted 8:30 pm
$25 per car Fri-Sun, $20 Mon-Thurs
This is a park your car and walk through light show, so dress WARM!!

ADVENTURE PARK USA SHADRACK'S CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND
11113 West Baldwin Road, New Market, Maryland. November 18, 2011 - January 8, 2012. HOURS: 6 to 10 p.m. At Shadrack's Christmas Wonderland, drive through a maze filled with hundreds of thousands of lights that twinkle along to Christmas music. $25 per carload. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the American Red Cross and Christmas Cash for Kids. Guests can stay afterwards to meet Santa Claus and enjoy Adventure Park's indoor attractions at a discounted rate including laser Tag, the climbing wall, ropes course, teacups, helicopters, soft play and the Arcade.

Frederick County This Week

There are some great things going on in Frederick County this week, I wish I could take my girls to all of them!! Get your calendars out, these things you don't want to miss.

Pump it Up Frederick
Monday-Friday
Pop in Playtime Pre-k 10-12pm
Family Jump 1-3pm
$8 per child

MONDAY DEC. 5th

Downtown Frederick Library
Starlight Family Storytime
6:30pm
Wear your jammies and snuggle up for Storytime!

TUESDAY DEC. 6th

Urbana Library
Gingerbread House Contest
Come out and make a gingerbread house to be entered into the contest!
Free event, open all day

Urbana Library
Preschool Storytime 1:30pm no registration required

Urbana Library
Holiday Crafts
Come make fun holiday arts and crafts 4:15-5:00pm
Free event, register HERE

Downtown Frederick Library
Babies with Books Storytime 0-12months 10:15am/12-24 months 11-00am/0-24 months 11:45am
Babies love books, too! Enjoy these interactive story programs designed for babies and their caregivers. Music, rhymes, and movement will delight your child. Tickets will be available on the day of the program for the first 17 parent/child pairs. This program is limited, so come early for your ticket.

Chick-Fil-A Kids Night
5-7pm
Face painting with Vicki
Kids get a Free 4 piece nugget meal with purchase of adult meal

WEDNESDAY DEC. 7th

Urbana Library
Preschool Storytime
10:30am and 11-15am no registration required

Downtown Frederick Library
Wiggle Giggle Storytime 10:15 and 11:00am
Ages 2-5

Barnes and Noble FSK Mall
"Bear has the Sniffles" Storytime 10:30am

THURSDAY DEC. 8th

Downtown Frederick Library
Preschool Storytime 10:30am

Downtown Frederick Library
Babies with Books Storytime 0-24 months
2:30pm

Chick-Fil-A
Craft Night with Santa Cow
Make holiday crafts with Santa Cow and kids also get a free 4 piece nugget meal with
Purchase of adult meal

Adventure Park USA (New Market)
Free Storytime 11:00am

FRIDAY DEC. 9th

Downtown Frederick Library
Toys and Tunes 11:00am
Join Miss Jenni As she shares the toys and tunes of the Holiday Season.
See a special Santa puppet play and more musical fun

Dancing Bear Toy Store in Downtown Frederick
Holiday Market for kids
Even the youngest shoppers can find something special and affordable for their family, friends, and teachers at this unique holiday shop. Located in the Cultural Arts Center’s conference room, the Holiday Market for Kids features handcrafted Fair Trade gifts priced at $10 and under. Children can shop “in secret” while family members wait nearby, or adults can shop with children. Young shoppers can wrap and tag their gifts if they choose. A portion of proceeds will benefit the Frederick Arts Council. Credit cards, checks, and cash accepted.
FRIDAY 4-7pm
SATURDAY 12-7pm
Location:Cultural Arts Center Conference Room
15 W Patrick Street
Frederick, MD 21701

Kris Kringle Prosessional
Downtown Frederick starting at the corner of Carroll and Patrick St.
6:30 pm
Kris Kringle is coming to town as the star of this year's Kris Kringle Procession presented by Giant and The Holiday Committee.  The event begins at the corner of Carroll and Patrick Streets in Frederick and ends with the lighting of the City Tree in Baker Park.
The procession mirrors the small town charm that makes Frederick so special during the holidays. Local children dressed as reindeer, snowflakes, angels, elves, and gifts will accompany costumed characters, some modern, some traditional, through Frederick's downtown streets.
CLOSE THE EVENING OUT WITH HOLIDAY CHEER
After the procession all are invited to head to Baker Park Bandshell for a closing ceremony and join the City of Frederick Mayor and procession characters in the signing of holiday tunes and the lighting the Baker Park tree.


SATURDAY DEC. 10th

Lisbon Ole Fashion Christmas Horse Parade
11:00am
Brought to you by the friends and neighbors of the Lisbon community, the Lisbon Ole Fashion Christmas Horse Parade is centered on displaying the pleasure of horses and benefiting the Howard County and Carroll County food bank. It is to be held in the Lisbon, Maryland area on December 10, 2011, beginning at 11:00 a.m. The parade will be 1.9 miles on Frederick Road (Route 144) through town. The parade will be free to spectators.
For information and Directions go the to WEBSITE

Lowes
Build and Grow 10:00
Making a Coal Car
Register HERE

Downtown Frederick Carriage Rides
Saturday and Sunday 4-8pm
In addition to regular Carriage Rides, check out this weekends Cinderella Carriage led by Belgium Draft Mules.
 
Location: Carriage will leave every 30 minutes from Market Street in front of Brewer’s Alley
Fee: $15 per person
Pre-registration is recommended. Tickets will be sold during the above times for available slots only. Maximum number of riders for each ride will be 6.
Regular Carriage rides $10 per person children 2 and under are free sitting on parents lap



CHILDREN'S WEEKEND 
Downtown Frederick
Saturday, December 10 & Sunday, December 11
Downtown Frederick 
Fun for children of all ages, this year's Children's Weekend is presented by Celebree Learning Centers and the Holidays in Historic Frederick Committee.
The joy of the holidays is embodied in the children who partake in a weekend full of activities just for them! From ornament painting and storytelling, to belsnickeling, and breakfast with Santa, there are a variety of activities hosted by Frederick City businesses that work together to create this magical weekend.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Saturday Events

9:00- 10:30am Breakfast with Santa
Start the morning off right with Jolly Old St. Nick!  Make your reservations through Brewer's Alley today for this Children's Weekend tradition! Brewer's Alley Restaurant
124 N. Market Street
301-631-0089 $12.50 (Adults)
$7.50 (Kids 10 & Under)
Reservations Required

Children's Holiday Art Show C. Burr Artz Public Library
10am-5pm
110 E. Patrick Street  FREE Event

10am-2pm Holidays with the Frederick Keys
Snap a picture with Santa Keyote, free Keyote hats and baseball card (kids 12 & under) and shop for the Keys fans on your list.  
Harry Grove Stadium
21 Stadium Drive FREE Event

1:00-4pm
Model Railroad Open House  Frederick Co. Society of Model Engineers
423 E. Patrick Street FREE Event

SUNDAY EVENTS

10:30- 11:30 AM Cookies and Stories with Mrs. Claus
Griff's Landing Restaurant
43 S. Market Street FREE Event

12-6pm  Ornament Painting at "I Made This!"
10 N. East Street #B
301-624-4030  FREE Event

1-4pm Model Railroad Open House
Frederick Co. Society
of Model Engineers
423 E. Patrick Street FREE Event

1-5pm  Children's Holiday Art Show
C. Burr Artz Public Library
110 E. Patrick Street   FREE Event

This Week in Montgomery County

Here is your go to list for this next week in Montgomery County!

MONDAY DEC. 5th

Romp and Roll Germantown
Open Gym 1:45-4:00
$7 p child

TUESDAY DEC. 6th

Damascus Library
Storytime ages 0-5
10:30am

Romp and Roll Germantown
Open Gym 1:45-4:00
$7 per child

Chick-fil-A Germantown
Kids night 5-8pm
Crafts with Ms. Merv
Free 4 piece nugget kids meal with purchase of adult meal

WEDNESDAY DEC. 7th:

White Flint Mall
10:30am Storytime with Ms. Jazmine
Ages 1-6
Don't forget to take a ride on the North Pole Express indoor train! $1.50 per person
Running 11am-6pm

Winter Tots Washingtonian Center Gaithersburg
10:30am
Event inside RIO Center's lower level atrium, near the movie theatre.
This week:
Mad Science: A, B, C's of Science

Barnes and Noble Washingtonian Center
Storytime 11:00am

Romp and Roll Germantown
Open Gym 1:45-4:00
$7 per child

Rockville Town Center Square
Tree Lighting And Holiday Open House
6:30-9pm
Holiday Open House and Tree Lighting
Activities Include:

        Santa’s Arrival
        Photos with Santa
        Holiday Tree Lighting
        Horse & Carriage Rides with donation of a new toy or gift card to the Montgomery County Housing Opportunities Commission
        Holiday Performances by Walter Johnson High School Choir, Dawn Crafton Dance Studio, Rockville Musical Theater Center in Rockville
        Merchant Specials

THURSDAY DEC 8th

Romp and Roll Germantown
Open Gym 1:45-4:00pm
$7 per child
                
FRIDAY DEC. 9th

Romp and Roll Germantown
Open Gym 1:45-7:30pm
$7 per child

SATURDAY DEC. 10th:

Chick-fil-A Germantown
Visits with Santa Cow and Elf Cow
3-6pm

White Flint Mall
Breakfast with Santa at Dave and Buster's
9:30-11:30am
For reservations and details call 301-287-0007

Lowes Build and Grow
Head to your local Lowes store And let your child build their own Coal Car!
10:00am
Event is free but you must register HERE

Washingtonian Center Gaithersburg
Music & Merriment throughout Washingtonian Center
1 to 4 PM
Get into the holiday spirit with fun for the whole family.  Santa sightings, Holiday craft making, spectacular store sales and ... sounds of the season by the area's most talent student groups!

Open Bounce Times:

Bounce U Clarksburg

Preschool Playdate ($8.95 per child, includes small snack)
Mon,Tues,Fri 10am-12pm
Wed 12:30-2:30

All ages Open Bounce
Tues 5:00pm
Wed & Thurs 4:00pm

Print this COUPON and bring a canned food item for $2 off admission

Special Deal on Pump it Up (gaithersburg or leesburg)

Check out this great deal on Groupon for 5 passes to Pump It Up!

$25 for 5 pop in play time passes, valued at $50! Pump It Up is a great place to let your child run off their energy on a rainy day,
or any day for that matter! You definitely don't wanna pass this one up.

Pump It Up Deal

Spend this weekend at the Baltimore Aquarium or Port Discovery

This is no joke. If you have been thinking about taking the kids to the Baltimore Aquarium or Port Discovery soon, throw all the future plans out the door and just go this weekend. This weekend is "Dollar Days" and you can get into each of these museums for ONLY $1!! And if you know how much it would be to take a family of 4 to either of these places, this is a HUGE deal. Check it out:

Baltimore Aquarium
Visit the Aquarium for just $1!

Saturday Dec. 3rd 10:00-4pm
Sunday Dec. 4th 10-4pm

Dollar Days Weekend has been a tradition since the National Aquarium opened in 1981. It remains an important community event on the Aquarium’s calendar, and a celebration of the season of giving. 

Please consider the following when attending Dollar Days Weekend:

Tickets are limited, and are first come, first served; they cannot be purchased in advance or online.
Lines will be long, so please dress for the weather!
There will be no dolphin shows, but the amphitheater will be open for viewing the dolphins.
The Polar Express™ 4-D Experience tickets may be purchased for $5 each.
There will be no re-entry.
Look for special dollar deals at the gift shops and cafes!
Stroller check and lockers will be available, but no coat check.

Port Discovery Children's Museum

Sunday Dec. 4th 12pm-5pm
Dollar Days
General admission is just $1 per person.
No coupons or other discounts will be accepted. Admission is on a first come-first served basis and limited to Museum capacity.

Hope your able to get out there and take advantage of these great deals!

Special Discounts, Get Them Before They Are Gone!

Did you miss out on the gymnastics deal to Marva Tot's Gymnastics I posted recently? If not, never fear! Here is another great deal to take advantage of:

Marva Tot's Gymnastics Deal

Looking for something fun and family friendly to do as a family for New Years Eve? Stay tuned for my post with some great ideas for New Years, but until then, check out this deal on New Years Eve in Alexandria, VA! Get it before its gone!

New Year Eve Deal

Deal on Christmas Light show in Gaithersburg! Can only be used on certain days so read the fine print! Check out this deal:

Christmas Light Show

Know of another great coupon or offer? Leave a comment and share it with the rest of us!

This Weeks Picks for Montogmery County

Monday:

Bounce U Clarksburg (also on Tues and Thurs!)
10am-12 Preschool Playdate ages 5 and under
Bouncing fun, music, games, and a small snack for $8.95 per child
Visit the website for more bouncing times and a $2 off coupon! WEBSITE

Germantown Soccerplex 18031 Central Park Circle
Open playtime 10am-12 $2 per child ages 1-10 (infants are free)
Bring your own toys to share in the big gym!

Tuesday:

Damascus Library
Storytime ages 1-5 10:30am
Join us for a special Story Time with stories, rhymes and activities from Australia, featuring special guest librarian, author & storyteller Margaret Robson Kett from The State Library of Western Australia. For ages birth to 5. Adults must accompany children age 2 and under; children ages 3-5 may attend with an adult or independently.

Chick-fil-A Kids Night
5-7 pm
Free 4 piece nugget meal with the purchase of an adult meal

Thursday:

Germantown Soccerplex 18032 Central Park Circle
Open playtime 10am-12 $2 per child ages 1-10 (infants are free)
Bring your own toys to share

Friday:.

Cabin John Mall (Potomac)
Free children's entertainment, crafts and more!
10:30 am Special guest Kidsinger Jim
In the mall atrium

Poolesville Holiday lighting Ceremony
Holiday Lighting Ceremony
Whalen Commons
19701 Fisher Avenue, Poolesville, MD 20837
Visits with Santa 6:30 pm
Official Lighting Ceremony 7:30 pm

Join in a holiday sing-along as the Commons comes alive with twinkling lights, performances by local choirs, and ice carving demonstrations. Visit Santa's workshop and climb aboard the "Holiday Express" for a magical trip around the Park. Be sure to visit the Town Hall Foyer to view the Children's Tree, and hear the "Sounds of the Season" performed by the Poolesville High School Music Department.
Be a part of the true meaning of the holidays by bringing a new unwrapped toy and/or non-perishable food to support WUMCO. Items will be distributed to local families needing assistance this holiday season.
Refreshments available to purchase include BBQ, Country Ham Sandwiches, Hamburgers, Hotdogs, Homemade Soups, Funnel Cakes, Coffee, Hot Chocolate, & Hot Cider.
Start your holiday shopping early by visiting the many vendors who will be set up in Town Hall and stroll through Town to enjoy PACC First Friday Events, which include special offers and late hours at area retail stores!

Saturday: !

Home Depot Kids Workshop
9am-12 bring your child into your local Home Depot for them to make their own Snowman Napkin holder! Free event!

Lowes Build and Grow
10:00am Register HERE and take your child to your local Lowes store to bulild their very own Caboose!

Music and Merriment at Washingtonian Center Gaithersburg
1-4pm Get into the holiday spirit with fun for the whole family.  Free horse and carriage rides, Santa sightings, spectacular store sales and ... sounds of the season by the area's most talent student groups!
Free horse and carriage rides along Boardwalk Place from 2-4 pm.


Be sure to check out my next posts about the best places to cut down a Christmas Tree and see Christmas lights! Have a great week!

This Weeks Picks Frederick County

This week we are ending November and jumping into December! I don't know about you, but I am super excited for all the "holiday" events and things going on for kids and families! Check out these great things going on this week and through next weekend:

Monday:

Pump it Up Frederick
10am-12 (Mon-Fri) Pop in playtime Pre-K
$8 per child

Tuesday:

Chick-fil-A Kids Night
Magic and Balloon art with Johnny O
5-7pm free 4 piece nugget kids meal with purchase of an adult meal


Wednesday:

Barnes and Noble FSK Mall
Dr. Suess Storytime 10:30am

Thursday:

DANCING BEAR’S 9TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY MARKET FOR KIDS (Thursday and Friday!)
Even the youngest shoppers can find something special and affordable for their family, friends, and teachers at this unique holiday shop. Located in the Cultural Arts Center’s conference room, the Holiday Market for Kids features handcrafted Fair Trade gifts priced at $10 and under. Children can shop “in secret” while family members wait nearby, or adults can shop with children. Young shoppers can wrap and tag their gifts if they choose. A portion of proceeds will benefit the Frederick Arts Council. Credit cards, checks, and cash accepted. 5-7pm
Location:Cultural Arts Center Conference Room
15 W Patrick Street

Friday:

Mt. Airy Library
11:00am Cookie Time!
Ages 3 - 7
Get in the winter spirit with a special storytime full of tasty stories, yummy crafts, cookie decorating, and of course cooking eating! Children 3 and under must be accompanied by an adult caregiver

Saturday:

Mt. Airy Library
American Girl Afternoon 1pm
Ages 5 - 10
Travel back in time to the time period of an American Girl. We will talk about the books and do activities to help us better understand the time period. Bring your own doll and dress festively if you like

Super Secret Elf Workshop (downtown Frederick)
Delaplaine Visual Arts Education Center
40 S Carroll St, Frederick, MD 21701
1-4pm
Kids create art projects to give as holiday gifts! Bring your little elf to the Delaplaine on December First Saturday for art activities geared for gift giving. Work stations will feature a holiday mix of mediums to choose from. Artists and volunteers will provide all the materials and direction needed for each elf to take home new works of art! Adults are welcome to stay and participate ~ or take some time to shop our Local Color Artist Market! Admission is $10/per child. Free gift wrapping available.


Home Depot Kids Workshop
9am-12
Make a snowman napkin holder!

Lowes Build and Grow Workshop
Sign up HERE and take your child to your local store
for some fun making a Caboose!

Saturday Dec. 3rd all day
Joyful Jingles Urbana Library
You're invited to our annual musical open house to celebrate the holidays! Now in our fifth year, we feature area professional and student musicians. Light refreshments provided by the Friends of Urbana Regional Library.



LIBRARY STORYTIMES (no registration required)

DOWNTOWN FREDERICK LIBRARY

Monday:

Starlight Family Storytime 6:30pm
Snuggle into the library and encourage a love for language and literature for the entire family through this engaging and interactive storytime. Almost bedtime? Feel free to wear your pajamas!

Tuesday:

Babies With Books: Birth to Twelve Months 10:15am
Early Literacy begins with You - Bring your baby to the library for this engaging and interactive program that helps develop the six pre-reading skills your child can start learning from birth! Tickets will be available on the day of the program for the first 17 parent/child pairs. This program is limited, so come early for your ticket. 

Babies With Books: Twelve to Twenty-Four Months 11:00am
Early Literacy begins with You - Bring your baby to the library for this engaging and interactive program that helps develop the six pre-reading skills your child can start learning from birth! Tickets will be available on the day of the program for the first 17 parent/child pairs. This program is limited, so come early for your ticket. 

NEW TIME! Babies With Books: Birth to Twenty-Four Months 11:45am
Early Literacy begins with You - Bring your baby to the library for this engaging and interactive program that helps develop the six pre-reading skills your child can start learning from birth! Tickets will be available on the day of the program for the first 17 parent/child pairs. This program is limited, so come early for your ticket. 

Starlight Family Storytime 6:30pm
Bring the whole family for an evening of storytime fun. WeÂ’ll read, move, and rhyme with a different theme each week. Almost bedtime? Feel free to wear your pajamas! 

Wednesday:

Wiggle Giggle Storytime 10:15 and 11:00am
Wiggle Giggle Storytime is a 20 minute storytime for little listeners with extra energy! Dance and giggle and learn something new with stories and rhymes picked just for you! For ages 2-5 years old. 

Thursday:

Preschool Storytime 10:30am
Early literacy begins with you! Help your preschooler develop the six pre-reading skills that every child needs to succeed. This storytime celebrates a love of reading through books, music, and activities.

Babies With Books: Birth to Twenty-Four Months 2:30 pm
Babies love books, too! Enjoy these interactive story programs designed for babies and their caregivers. Music, rhymes, and movement will delight your child. Tickets will be available on the day of the program for the first 17 parent/child pairs. This program is limited, so come early for your ticket. 

URBANA LIBRARY (no  registration required)

Tuesday:

Starlight Family Storytime 6:30pm
Wear your pajamas and bring a "stuffed friend." 

Wednesday:

Preschool Storytime 10:30am and 11:15am
Share books, music, and activities that help foster a love for reading. No registration required

Friday:

Discovery Kids: 10:30 am (registration required but there are still openings, register HERE)
Explore exciting things in Art, Music, History or Science

Stay tuned for my posts on the best Christmas Tree Farms and the best Christmas Light Shows!

Oh Christmas Tree!

Last Saturday, we went and cut down our Christmas tree. There is nothing like watching your child run through the aisles of tall Fraiser Fir's screaming "I'm going to find the biggest tree ever!" I still remember being a kid wanting to find the best tree to take home, it was so exciting. We never cut our tree down, we always went to the local fire department to get our tree and show our support. Once we started a family of our own, we decided we wanted to start a tradition of taking the kids to cut down a tree on a local farm. (We don't count the time we got it outside the Motel 6) We found just that perfect family owned farm, so I am gonna share with you our favorite spot to cut down a tree, as well as a few other great local Christmas tree farms in Montgomery and Frederick County. Do it fun this year and forget buying your tree at Lowes or Home Depot. Bundle up the littles, grab some hot chocolate, and support your local farm!

Mayne's Tree Farm (Buckeystown/Frederick)
Mayne's is our favorite spot. We park the car, hop on the tractor ride, and head out to the field to cut down the tree (saw's) provided. The staff are so friendly and helpful, once your done they net it up and help you get it on your car then wish you a MERRY CHRISTMAS as you drive away. They also sell beautiful wreaths and snacks. And if you don't feel like cutting down your own tree, they also sell precut trees.

Gaver Tree Farm (New Market/Mt. Airy)
Pick and cut your own tree from the farm then let them help you haul, shake and bail the tree. Pre-cut tree's available as well as a wreath shop

Butler's Orchard (Boyds/Germantown)
Cut down your own tree or buy form the precut lot. They also provide assistance with preparing the tree and getting it on your car. Don't forget to pop in the store for fresh produce, baked goods, holiday decor and much more!

Homestead Farm (Poolesville)
Cut your own tree or get a precut tree. Saws provided as well as netting and rope. Visit the market they have there before you leave for some local goodies or visit the animals!

E&E Tree Farm (Walkersville)
If your looking for a place to cut down a tree AND don't wanna spend a lot of money, this is the place to go. Most Pines are $15 and Firs are $35! They also sell wreaths, holly and concessions.


Some of these farms are only open on the weekends so make sure you check the website for hours. Happy tree hunting!!

Thanksgiving Traditions...I wanna hear from YOU!!

Ok I am being a little selfish with this post. Since tomorrow is Thanksgiving and I am having my fam and my husbands fam over here, I wanna hear what fun Thanksgiving traditions you have with your family! Do you do anything special with the kids? Do you do anything special at dinnertime? I am looking for fun ideas to make this the best Thanksgiving Day yet!
So post a comment and share your favorite Thanksgiving Day traditions with the rest of us! And I hope everyone has a wonderful, food filled day tomorrow!
I will be posting tons of awesome Christmas events and the best places to go with your family in the next few days so stay tuned!!

Discount Movie Tickets!

The weather is starting to get cold out, and the holidays are coming, so why not take advantage and take your family to the movies! Check out this great deal!

Get 2 Fandango Movie Tickets for $13!
Get your tickets HERE

Fun in Frederick!

Ok you Frederick County friends, here is a list of some great things going on this week. The best part is, most of these things are either FREE or very affordable! Either way, you are guaranteed some fun with your kids!

PUMP IT UP FREDERICK
Open Bounce Days:
Mon-Fri (except Thursday)
10:00-12:00
$8 per child, $6 for sibling
Spend the first hour in one room, then the second hour in another! Tons of bouncing fun, slides and games!
Also open for family bounce time Tuesday and Wednesday 6-8pm!

Monday Nov. 21

URBANA LIBRARY
Babies with books Storytime 3:00pm (still openings, register HERE

DOWNTOWN FREDERICK LIBRARY
Thanksgiving Storytime 6:30 pm
Come celebrate this thankful holiday with songs, fingerplays and stories about family, friendship and that crazy fellow Tom Turkey!  

Tues. Nov. 22

URBANA LIBRARY
Starlight Family Storytime 6:30pm
Wear your pajama's and bring your favorite stuffed animal!

DOWNTOWN FREDERICK LIBRARY
Babies with Books Storytime
10:15 Birth-12 months
11:00 12-24 months
11:45 birth-24 months
Tickets will be available on the day of the program for the first 17 parent/child pairs. This program is limited, so come early for your ticket.

CHICK-FIL-A KIDS NIGHT
Kid's Night with Johnny-O
Join us for a night of magic and balloon art with the one and only Johnny-O. Also enjoy our Kid's Night special, receive a free kid's 4 nugget meal with each combo meal purchased.


Wed. Nov. 23

URBANA LIBRARY
Preschool Storytime 10:30am and 11:15am
No registration required!

DOWNTOWN FREDERICK LIBRARY
Wiggle Giggle Storytime ages 2-5
10:15 and 11:00am
No registration required!

BARNES AND NOBLE FSK MALL
10:30am Storytime
"One Little, Two Little, Three Little Pilgrims"


Friday Nov. 25th

DOWNTOWN FREDERICK LIBRARY
The Storytime show- Thank goodness for books
11:00am
Mother Goose And friends lead a tribute to the wonderful world of books with music, stories, and a puppet show!


BLACK FRIDAY FUN!!!

FROSTY FRIDAY DOWNTOWN FREDERICK

Forget the mall and crazy parking lots! Head downtown Frederick for shopping and some serious holiday spirit!

Downtown Frederick opens early and stays up late on Frosty Friday with restaurants and stores operating from 9am - 9pm!  Start off your holiday shopping right with an early breakfast and enjoy characters, carolers and entertainment both on and off the streets of downtown throughout the day.  Indulge in FREE hot cocoa and gift wrapping.  You might see Frosty the Snowman himself, Scrooge, the Grinch or even Ol' Saint Nick!
Frosty the Snowman and his Snowflakes will visit the following restaurants specially open for breakfast on Frosty Friday:
Volt from 8 - 8:40am
Magoo's from 8:50 - 9:30am
Brewer's Alley from 9:40 - 10:20am
The Wine Kitchen from 10:30am - 11:10am

The Grinch will make an early morning attempt to steal Christmas at the following downtown eateries:
Subway from 8 - 8:30am
Market Bagel & Deli from 8:40 - 9:10am
Beans & Bagels from 9:20 - 9:50am
Moxie from 10 - 10:30am
Frederick Coffee Company from 10:40 - 11:15am

Morning carriage rides will be available between 10am - 1pm.  Line forms at 124 N Market Street, suggested donation $10 per rider.  No reservations - rides will be given first come, first served. 
Afternoon Meet & Greet with Frosty and the Grinch at the Cultural Arts Center (15 W Patrick Street) between 4 - 6:30pm.  Have your picture taken with the Grinch or give Frosty a hug!
Free Hot Cocoa presented by BB&T Bank at the Square Corner (N Market and Patrick Streets)

Santa Claus arrives in a horse-drawn carriage to greet children among 50,000 twinkling white lights and brilliant sounds of the season. He’ll greet the children and lead families to I Made This! for a kid-friendly party and personal visits with Santa. Light refreshments will be served.  9:00am - 11:00am - Breakfast with the Grinch at Danielle's Restaurant. Kids eat free with purchase of adult entrée. Noon - 8:00pm – FM Sounds fills the air with seasonal favorites  7:00 SHARP - Santa's Arrival 7:15pm - 8:30pm - Reception and visits with Santa at I Made This!


Saturday Nov. 26

Maryland Christmas Show Frederick Fairgrounds
Holiday crafters, vendors, food and fun for the whole family!
Fri-Sun
Opens at 10:00am

Lego Creations Mt. Airy library
1:00pm Ages 5 and up
Want to build a castle? Or a spaceship? Or something totally new and different? Join us for a LEGO® program where you can build whatever you would like! We supply the blocks and you supply the creativity! Bring your dad or your mom and build together!

This Week in Montgomery County

Only a few days left before Thanksgiving! I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving Day with your family and friends! Here is your list of what's going on this week in Montgomery County. Of course once Black Friday hits there will be a ton of sales and fun! I love this time of year!


BOUNCE U CLARKSBURG
Preschool Playdate for children under age 5 (infants are free)
Mon, Tues, Fri 10am-12/Wednesday 12:30-2:30
$8.95 per child includes music, games, a small snack and playtime on giant inflatables!
Reservations required 301-515-5665

Tuesday 5:00-8pm FAMILY BOUNCE NIGHT
bring the whole family for bouncing fun!

Click HERE for coupons!

Wednesday Nov. 23
Montgomery Mall Bethesda
10:30am FAMILY FUN DAY!
Eric Energy the Wacky Scientist will be there with FREE
Activities, stories, songs, crafts and more!
(Lower level near Macy's)

Chick-fil-A Montgomery Mall
Family Fun Night!
6-8pm in the food court "Steamer and Friends"

Barnes and Noble Washingtonian Center Gaithersburg
Storytime 11:00am

BLACK FRIDAY FUN!!

MONTGOMERY MALL BETHESDA
Stores open 12 midnight on Nov 25th!!

LAKEFOREST MALL GAITHERSBURG
Stores open 12 midnight on Nov. 25th!!

WHITE FLINT MALL
Stores open 8am Nov. 25th!
INDOOR TRAIN RIDES FOR KIDS EVERY DAY!


Sat. Nov. 26
Rockville Town Center Library
Tipi Tales Storytime
11am-noon
Award winning storyteller Gary Lloyd tells Native American tales with voices, movements, and
lots of audience participation! Ages 3 and up

Stay tuned for a post with my picks for Frederick county this week!

Special Deal on Gymnastics Classes!

Have you been thinking about getting your child involved in gymnastics or tumbling classes? Or are you just looking for something for your child to do during the cold winter months? Look no further! One of the best Gymnastics Club's in Maryland, Marvatots n' Teens located in Rockville, is offering a special deal on 12 week classes this winter through Certifikid. Choose your class ages 1 and up and only pay $150 for 12 weeks, valued up to $270! Check out the special deal HERE

Tops 5 Picks for This Weekend

Here are my top 5 picks for things to do with your family this weekend. Of course, Christmas shopping is always an option, it seems like so many people are close to being done already!!! Well if your out and about, or if your just snuggling at home, be sure to hit at least one of these great events!

Friday Night:

"Light up Washingtonian" Gaithersburg Washingtonian Center
6-8pm Santa will be making his annual stop to help illuminate
the Christmas Tree and visit with guests! Event held between
Joe's Crab Shack and Uncle Julio's

Fri-Sunday
Maryland Christmas Show- Frederick Fairgrounds
Vendors, crafters, food and fun for the whole family
Opens 10am!

Saturday:

Adventure Park USA Character Breakfast
Winnie the Pooh and Tigger!
8-10am
Reserve tickets on the website HERE

Westview Promenade Frederick
Tree Lighting Ceremony
5-8pm activities for the whole family
Holiday music, Storytime, games, crafts, and hot chocolate!

Sat. & Sun.
Butler's Orchard Open House
12-4pm
Hayrides, roast marshmallows, hot chocolate and cider, and live holiday music!


Stay tuned for my next post. If your excited about Christmas, your not gonna wanna miss this one!

FRESH BEAT BAND LIVE TOUR TICKETS!!!

Ok does your child love the Fresh Beat Band? Mine does. Actually, I will admit that I probably like them as much, if not more than my daughter does. Don't judge, their songs are catchy. :)
Well, they are finally doing it. They are going on a Live Tour and come to our area the end of March through the beginning of April! They will be playing in 3 locations:

March 31 Modell Performing Arts Center at the Lyric Baltimore
April 1 Warner Theatre in DC
April 11th Weinberg Center Frederick

Tickets go on sale to the general public this Friday, but I found a promotion code to buy presale tickets right now! If you go to Ticket Master to buy tickets, it will ask you for the Nickelodeon Promotion Code and it is "FRESHBEAT"
So get your tickets early to get good seats! And just so you know, I priced out all 3 places, and the Warner Theatre in DC has the cheapest tickets. And trust me, it's not cheap to go see the Fresh Beat Band! This will definitely be a Christmas gift for our daughter. :)

Tickets

Who likes Airplanes?

If your child loves airplanes, then you will want to check out this deal. On Certifikid today for $6 you can get a family four pack of tickets to the College Park Aviation museum. Here is the website for the museum for more information and special events going on at the museum.

Free Starbucks? I think so.

Who wouldn't want a free Starbucks?? From Nov.17-20th from 2-5pm buy one Starbucks holiday drink and get another one free! So take your husband, take your girlfriend, take your mom, who cares who you take with you, any mom knows that free coffee is a MAJOR deal! Check out the details here

This Week in Frederick County

Ok all you Frederick County Mom's, here are some great things to put on your calendar for this week. I can't wait for some of these events! :)

Urbana Regional Library
Tuesday Nov. 15 6:30pm and Friday Nov. 18 11:00am
The Storytime Show: Thank Goodness for Books
Mother Goose and her friends will lead a tribute to the wonderful world of books with music and stories, and a new puppet show!

Preschool storytimes at Urbana Library
Wed. Nov. 16 10:15 and 11:00am no registration required!
For more information on other story times that require registration, visit the website.

C. Burr Artz Library (downtown Frederick)
Monday Nov. 14 6:30pm Starlight Family Storytime
Snuggle into the library and encourage a love for language and literature for the entire family through this engaging and interactive storytime. Almost bedtime? Feel free to wear your pajamas! 

Wiggle Giggle Storytime at C. Burr Artz Library
Wednesday Nov. 16th 10:15 and 11:00am
Wiggle Giggle Storytime is a 20 minute storytime for little listeners with extra energy! Dance and giggle and learn something new with stories and rhymes picked just for you! For ages 2-5 years.
For information on more storytimes at this library, check it out HERE

ADVENTURE PARK USA New Market
Sat. Nov. 19th 8-10am
Character Breakfast with Winne the Pooh and Tigger!
$12 person for buffet style breakfast
Space is limited, so hurry fast! Buy your tickets online HERE

Maryland Christmas Show
Nov. 18-20 and 25-27 Frederick County Fairgrounds
Vendors, crafters, and fun for the whole family! Start your Christmas shopping here. For more information visit the WEBSITE

Chick-fil-A Frederick (Buckeystown Pike)
Tuesday Nov. 15 5-7pm
Kid's night and face painting with Vicki
Kids eat free with the purchase of a regular value meal

Thursday Nov 17th at Chick-fil-A
5-7pm Harvest Party and Craft Night.
It will be a night of crafts and games, coloring contest and bobbing for apples. Guess the number of candy corn in the jar to win free Chick-fil-A food. Kid's can get a free kid's 4 nugget meal with each adult meal purchased.

Barnes and Noble FSK Mall
Wednesday Nov. 16th 10:30am
Storytime "5 Little Monkey's"

Westview Promedade Frederick (right in front of the Regal theater)
Celebrate Westviews’ Tree Lighting Ceremony
On Saturday, November 19th from 5:00 – 8:00pm families can enjoy a free fun filled evening with Mrs. Claus during her story time and dance lessons at Westview Promenade’s Tree Lighting Ceremony.  Cuddle up close and take pleasure in listening to the sounds of the season by Gary and the Groove, and enjoy the holiday spirit that will fill the air by playing Penguin Fish Fling and Snowball Toss- an event that the whole family will enjoy!

Check back often, I will be updating every few days with more great things to do with your kids! And if you hear of something that I didn't post, please let me know so I can share it!

A lot of things going on this next week!

I think I am starting this up at a great time because there are a ton of things going on for kids and families right now, especially as the holidays are approaching! I may have to break this up into 2 separate posts, because I have some great things to share with you! If your looking to fill up your calendar for the next week, look no further! Here is some information of things going on in Montgomery County. Stay tuned for a post with info on Frederick county!

Fun in Montgomery County

Germantown Soccerplex
Mondays and Thursdays 10am-12pm
Open playtime $2 per child ages 1-10, infants are free! Bring your own toys to share!

Romp and Roll Germantown 12851 Wisteria Dr.
$7 per child Open Play
Mon-Thursday 1:45-4pm open play (indoor padded play area great for little ones!)
Friday 1:45-7:30pm

Hills Gymnastics Gaithersburg 7577 Lindbergh Dr.
Open Gym $8 per child
Mon-Friday 12:15-1:15pm

Germantown Public Library
Tuesday Nov. 15th 10:15am
Toddler Time 12-42 months FREE

Barnes and Noble Washingtonian Center
Wednesday 11:00am Storytime

BUTLER'S ORCHARD FREE EVENT!
Sat Nov. 19th & Sun. Nov. 20th
12:00pm-4:00pm
Holiday Open House!
Free activities for the whole family! Take a hayride through the Christmas tree fields, roast marshmellows, enjoy hot apple cider and hot chocolate while listening to live holiday music!

Washintonian Center Gaithersburg
"Light up Washingtonian" Friday Nov 18th 6-8pm
Santa will be making his annual stop to help illuminate the Christmas tree and visit with guests
Free event, between Uncle Julio's and Joe's Crab Shack

Kings Valley Horse Stables Clarksburg
Saturday Nov. 19th 9-10am
Leadline Classes
Send and e-mail to RSVP by this Wednesday to have your child participate in open Leadline
For $5 at the door, your child has a full hour to ride different horses around the ring
Click HERE to visit their site and find out details!

Your very first Coupon Deal!!

This one is a great one. Plan a day trip to Port Discovery Children's Museum and save 50% off admission!! For only $7 you can receive admission for one child. And if you have ever been to Port Discovery you know that is an amazing price for that place! If you have never been, I highly recommend you go!! There is so much to do there with your children, but plan on staying most of the day, there is no way you can experience all the fun in just one morning or afternoon! Trust me, I learned that the hard way. When we had to leave, I was begging to stay more that my daughter was! Purchase your tickets at Certifikid but hurry this offer is not gonna last long!

Thanks to Dee Dee Davis for sharing this great deal!

Free events through this weekend!

Hey everyone,

Here is my first post letting you know about some free events for your kids starting today and through this weekend. So if your looking for something to do as a family or just to give your child something fun to look forward to, take a look below:

Tonight Thursday Nov. 10 5pm-7pm
Family night at Chik Fil A FREDERICK (Buckeystown Pike)
Normally kids night is Tuesday nights, but tonight is a special family night featuring "Little Golden Books"

Little Golden Books Family Night
Join us for a Chick-fil-A Family Night. It will be a night of fun and prizes. We will be having activity sheets for the kids. We will also be holding a raffle for numerous prizes, such as a special large format little golden book hardcover book, plush animals, and each child gets a free little golden book paperback. We will also have a special Family Night meal deal. Get a free kid's 4 nugget kid's meal with each adult meal purchased. FUN! :)


Lowes Build and Grow Projects
Did you know that every Lowes store has a free clinic for kids on Saturdays? They sure do! Starting at 10:00am you can take your child to your local Lowes store and let them create some sort of "building" project. The clinic is free, all you have to do is register online at Lowes Build and Grow and follow the 3 easy steps to sign up your child at your location of choice. Then just show up!
This Saturday Nov. 12th is "Build your own Science Lab" and Sat. Nov. 19th is "Build your own Santa sleigh."

If your out and about this weekend and are near a Barnes and Noble, grab a Starbucks and let your child be entertained!

Storytime Barnes and Noble Frederick (FSK Mall) 11:00am "Clifford the Big Red Dog"
Storytime Barnes and Noble Washintonian Center Gaithersburg 11:00am
Storytime Barnes and Noble Rockville Pike 11:00am

I will be posting later on some events you can check out this coming week. Please leave me a comment and let me know that you have come to visit my blog! And don't forget to tell your friends :)

Welcome

A friend encouraged me to do this, so here I am. Nothing fancy, nothing special, just a blog packed with as much information that I can find, for you mommies. I absolutely love being a stay at home mom. But even more than staying at home, I love finding fun things to do with my daughter and as a family. Not just fun things, but also special events and DEALS and COUPONS. As the wife of a police officer, we have a tight budget. But being on a tight budget does not always work with all the things that I would love to do with my sweet girl who has an enormous amount of energy. So I look for deals. I look for fun things to do that won't break the bank, even though sometimes it's nice to splurge. I just decided to make a blog for every mom to go to when they wanna find something fun to do with their kiddos. And this is not just for the summer, when it's cold outside, I make it my mission to find indoor things to do. I hope you find this blog useful. Bookmark it, and pass it on to your friends. :)