TriadSmartyPants

Last Post

2010-10-21T05:00:00.005-04:00

Hi Smarties,

I'm sad to say that today is our official last post in the Triad. We've really enjoyed delivering all the Smarty Scoop for you for two years and appreciate the support each and every one of you has given us every single day! However, due to some recent changes in the direction of our brand and business, we deemed it necessary to discontinue the TSP site for now.

We wish you the best of luck with your journey through this crazy little thing called mommyhood and stay Smarty!

Come visit us in Charlotte any time - www.charlottesmartypants.com!

Sincerely,
Jen Plym
Chief Founding Mommy
www.charlottesmartypants.com
www.triadsmartypants.com

Two Super Smarty Events This Weekend!

2010-10-20T05:00:00.001-04:00

Smarties, we're excited to give you the scoop on two incredible events this weekend!

Fun on the Farm at The Children’s Home
1001 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem
Friday, October 22nd, 6-8p
Grab your blankets & lawn chairs and enjoy an evening filled with hayrides, dinner, live music, smores, silent auction, outdoor activities and much more! All proceeds to benefit the Children's Home of Winston-Salem. Purchase tickets at www.funonthefarm.info or at the door!
Cost: $5 children 4-12 (kids under four are free!), $10 for adults. Ticket prices include dinner and all activities. Be there or be square!

Character Breakfast hosted by The Friends of the Ronald McDonald House
Have breakfast with all of your favorite princesses, superheros and storybook characters! Hosted by The Friends of the Ronald McDonald House.
When? Saturday, October 23rd from 8:30a-12:30p
Two Seating Times: 8:30 to 10:00 am & 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
Where? Ronald McDonald House of Winston-Salem
Cost? $25 per person. Children under age one attend free.
Tickets? Please call The Ronald McDonald House at (336)723-0228 for an invitation and location details or visit their site.

Reuse or buy new?

2010-10-19T05:00:00.001-04:00

By Krista

Got another bun in the oven? Now what? Should you reuse some of your previous products, or scrap it and start over? Why not do both? Baby gear is constantly evolving, changing, AND being recalled. What was the latest and greatest gadget one baby ago could now be completely yanked from shelves. With a little research and proper planning, getting ready for your second, third, or fourth (whew) bundle can be a breeze.

First, get savvy and take inventory. Prepare your “reuse or buy new” list by considering safety, emotion, and usability. Some items may represent an emotional connection. Maybe you have beautiful memories of rocking your first born wrapped in a special blanket and envision passing it on to them to celebrate the birth of their first child? Certainly, these items fall into the emotional category and you will want to put these aside as special treasures. Don’t forget to consider connections your child may have towards a precious item. They, just like you, may have special memories toward a stuffed animal or pillow. The thought of handing these items down to a new baby might cause unnecessary sibling conflict. Involve your children in these decisions prior to bringing home baby and avoid tantrums and strife.

However, car seats, high chairs, cribs, and larger more expensive items are ripe for the reusing! An absolute MUST is a visit to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website. Research all items you intend to reuse and make sure they haven’t been recalled since your last trip down baby lane. If your item passes muster, complete your own safety check by ensuring all parts are still working properly and not in need of repair.

Finally, don’t discount usability. We have all purchased products that, simply put, we hated. True lemons that drove us mad when we first used them and are sure to aggravate us again. Make life easier and consider replacing these items. A newborn takes enough energy, fighting to collapse a stroller shouldn’t. If cost is a concern, try selling items that didn’t work for you and put your funds towards the purchase of something more user-friendly.

All this being said, getting ready for a new baby is a personal experience. Many moms opt for all new, while others find reusing the comfortable way to go. Recently I’ve spent many blissful hours going through our old baby items and reminiscing. Some items need replacing while others bring joy to my heart knowing they get one more round.

Preparing for a new baby is a blissful experience to be treasured. So, congratulations to all the expectant Smarty moms and enjoy the process regardless of what side of the “buy or reuse” fence you’re on!

School Choice Program

2010-10-18T05:00:00.002-04:00

By Guest Blogger, Jennifer Jacobs

When it came time to send me off to kindergarten, my parents did not have to think too hard about where I would go to school. In fact, they didn’t have to think at all. Everyone sent their children to the public schools in District 56. I was headed to Gurnee Grade School along with all my friends in the neighborhood. The exceptions were the kids who went to St. Patrick’s, the only parochial school in the area. And since my family was not Catholic, St. Patrick’s was not an option. Case closed.

Before I had kids, I did not give much thought to the school choice debate. I knew that my husband and I were not going to raise our kids in a big city, and I assumed that my kids would do as I had done: go to the local public school along with all the other kids in the neighborhood. It turns out that Dan and I settled in a town that is just big enough that school choice is in fact a complicated issue.

I have been thinking about school choice since we moved into our neighborhood four years ago and learned that the kids here attend at least half a dozen different schools. This especially caught Dan off guard. He had visions of our son and daughter tripping off down the road to the local school every day. Not that this could ever happen since getting to the public elementary school requires a ride in a bus or car, but you get the idea. (And another thing, why doesn’t anyone take the bus anymore?) Dan vehemently wants to send our kids to public school. I am not so vehement, but I am in agreement. But it’s not a good sign when the local public elementary school feels compelled to hold intimate coffees and open houses to educate and encourage local parents to send their children to school there. The administrators of Gurnee Grade School certainly never had to make such an effort.

What has changed? Is it because I am now living within a public school district that educates thousands of students versus little District 56 that educated hundreds of students? Is it because it is now thirty years from the time that I was a skipping kindergartener? Tomes could be and are written about the evolution, and perhaps deterioration of the American public school system over the past thirty years. All I know is that I have talked to a lot of other parents and none of us can believe how we are stewing over a question that once upon a time was elementary.

Five Financial Facts Smart Moms Know

2010-10-17T05:00:00.001-04:00

By Guest Blogger, Rebecca Madej

Today’s mom is often her family’s CFO so it’s prudent to make smart money moves. Here are five financial facts smart moms know:

1 – Have a trusted board of directors: We mamas can juggle a lot but can’t do it all. Financial solutions are not one size fits all so pull in experts to advise you on areas like taxes, insurance and banking. Rely on their knowledge to maximize your efforts and make wise choices. As an example, I tell my clients their home represents both the asset and liability side of their balance sheet. As a result a mortgage requires proper attention and expertise so that’s exactly what they’ll get from me.

2 – Manage your credit rating: Keeping your credit in good standing is crucial. Credit scores are how lenders determine your debt repayment behavior. Furthermore, utility and insurance companies - even employers - will evaluate your credit history for insight into your financial habits. It’s a smart move to check your credit for errors or derogatory information and resolve any issues as quickly as possible to minimize their impact. You are allowed to have one free copy of your report from each of the three credit bureaus each year and www.annualcreditreport.com is the sanctioned site to do so. Another comprehensive resource for credit information can be found at www.myfico.com.

3 – Have cash reserves: Businesses’ costs sometimes exceed their revenue. Similarly most families don’t budget for a major auto repair or other significant expense but they still occur. CFO moms know the importance of cash reserves for such emergencies. Conventional wisdom is to have three to six months’ of expenses held in a separate savings account. Finding extra money in your budget to fund a ‘rainy day fund’ is easier than you may think and very worthwhile.

4 – Leverage what you already have: Businesses often use tax incentives or equity to their advantage – your family can do the same. Do you or your spouse have a FSA through work? Using it can help you get more bang for your buck on childcare or healthcare expenses. Are you paying mortgage insurance? Call your mortgage company compare your balance to your home’s value. If you have at least 20% equity, you may be able to remove the monthly mortgage insurance to increase your monthly savings.

5 – Finding savings/deals is fun: How do you find extra money for cash reserves? Evaluate your budget: Where do you spend money and where could you save? Don’t want to break out the calculator? Try sites like www.mint.com that automatically review your spending and generate reports to get valuable insight. Become a deal hound: Find discounts on services or entertainment you already use at places like www.groupon.com. Start playing the coupon game and learn how from domestic goddesses on sites like www.hotcouponworld.com. Finding great deals are fun and small savings add up!

Moms are the center of their family and frequently the family finances. As your family’s CFO, you have all the tools to make savvy money choices so make the most of it!

About Rebecca
No one has to tell Rebecca Madej that in today's hectic world, mothers often act as a family's chief financial officer. She lives it as the mom of two small children, and sees it daily in her successful career as as mortgage lender with Cunningham & Company Mortgage Bankers. "Moms are the center of their family and frequently the family finances," she says. "As your family’s CFO, you have all the tools to make savvy money choices so make the most of it." Follow her on Twitter @rebeccamadej or visit her website: www.rebeccamadej.com.

Smarty Mom: Shelley Holden

2010-10-16T05:00:00.002-04:00

Smarty Mom Quick Facts:
Smarty Mom: Shelley Holden
Mom of: Joanna (4) and Libby (21 months)
Married to: David for 7 years
Years in Triad: Has lived in Winston-Salem for almost 15 years since her freshman year at Wake Forest, finished undergrad and law school.
Occupation: Full-time mommy and does some part-time work as a development consultant (She previously managed the Law Fund for the Law school at Wake Forest before she decided to stay home when her oldest was born).

Shelley Holden is a miracle worker with a personality that shines with faith and love as she prides herself in giving back to her community. She is proudly on the Friends Board for both the Ronald McDonald House and Brenner Children's Hospital, on the Board of the NC Triad Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and the Board of the Junior League of Winston-Salem. She is very involved with her church, Centenary United Methodist Church, and her girls' preschool. All of these things are very important to her....she lost her mom to breast cancer in 2005. In addition, one of her girls was very sick when she was born. They are so thankful to have the best pediatricians and Brenner Children's Hospital. Shelley's hobbies include spending time with her girls and husband and friends, cooking, crafting, shopping and volunteering.

I’m so proud to introduce you to Shelley Holden. She is the type of woman who makes a difference in this world through her selfless heart and faithful soul. Let's meet Smarty Shelley!

You are a Smarty Mom with a big heart! Tell us about your volunteer work.
I am a big believer in "to whom much is given, much is expected". I feel like I have been blessed with so much - health, education, etc., so I have a lot I need to give back. Also, my mom and dad have always been very involved in their community and I truly learned to give back from them. They taught me that if you are able to get involved, it is your responsibility to help others and make this world a better place for yourself and those around you. Now with two little girls, that is even more important to me because I want them to learn about helping others and doing what they should and can to make their world better. I also want to do everything I can for them, so that their world can the best for them. My work with Brenner Children's Hospital and the Ronald McDonald House is so important because of my children. Living in Winston-Salem and being 5 minutes away from one of the best Children's Hospitals is such a blessing. I feel like we are so blessed to have this hospital that caters to serving children with doctors who are trained in pediatrics and equipment made for pediatrics. When my youngest was born, we had to go to Brenner a number of times and I was so relieved that she could be seen quickly and by doctors who knew exactly what to do with such a young child. I want to do everything I can to support them and being a part of the Friends board has given me that opportunity through the fundraisers for the hospital and the meetings to learn more about this wonderful facility. The Ronald McDonald House ties in with Brenner because it is a home away from home for families whose children are being treated at Brenner and at Forsyth. These families aren't as fortunate as we are to have a hospital just 5 minutes away and they need somewhere to stay to be close to their child. The RMH gives them this and offers so many wonderful services to these families. The work this house does is wondeful and I, too, love being a part of their Friends board. I have also enjoyed being in the Junior League of Winston-Salem for the past 10 years and it has given a lot of training opportunities and taught me a lot about Winston-Salem and ways to be involved in the community. The Children's Museum of Winston-Salem has been one of the best things the JL has enabled me to work on....my 1st year in the JL was when they decided to build the museum and now I love being able to take my children to play there. I think we are so blessed to have this fun place where our children can learn in this community.

I am also involved with the NC Triad Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure. My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999 and died in 2005. I became involved with this organization in 2003 as a way to honor my mom and fight this disease that eventually took her away from me and my family. I have met so many wonderful people through Komen who are working diligently to end this disease and in the last 25 years, there have been many great improvements but there is still a lot more work to be done. The Race for the Cure is their signature fundraiser and I chaired this event in 2006. It is such an inspiration to see over 10,000 people gather at Salem College each May to fight breast cancer. I continue to stay involved because of my mom and my girls. I pray that they will know a world without breast cancer and that they will never have to battle this disease or lose someone close to them because of it.
My mom was truly the most wonderful person I know and she dedicated her life for 25 years to me. She taught me so much through her cancer fight and her everday life. She was one of the most unselfish people and always was helping or doing something for someone. There is not a day that goes by that I don't miss her and it was really hard for me when I had my own children because I wanted her there to meet them. It makes me sad that my girls won't know her but I keep her alive for them by teaching them many of the things she taught me and also by keeping alive traditions from my childhood. Losing her also taught me that we have to make the most of each day and that is what I want to do with my girls everyday. I hope that I can be half the mom to them that she was to me.

You made a big decision to stay at home when your oldest was born. Was that a difficult choice for you?
Staying at home was a big decision for me when my oldest, Joanna, was born because I loved my job so much. It was such a privilege to work at my alma mater and I loved the many people I met and for some odd reason, I love fundraising! However, I wanted to every spend minute with Joanna that I could and I was fortunate enough to be able to do that. I have missed my job but have not regretted one day of staying at home. Being home with both girls has been a blast and even though so days are tough, I have never regretted it. I have gotten invloved with their preschool and the children's program at my church and I have loved that. I have satisfied my desire to get out some through my volunteer work and still dabble in some contract development work too. I think that one day I will go back, but I know these days with my little ones are flying by too!

What is your favorite thing about being a stay-at-home mom?
Being there for everything with my girls and taking them to do lots of things around town.

What is your favorite piece of baby gear?
The snap'n'go stroller. I would keep it in my car and pop it open and snap the carseat in everywhere I went. It was especially helpful when I have my 2nd child because it much easier than the stroller and I didn't have to take her out of the bucket carseat.

Minivan or SUV?
I love an SUV and all the room, even though I feel like my suburban is bus sometimes. I am still learning to parallel park in it!

How did you make mommy friends?
I have made some of my best mommy friends through children that are the same age as my girls. Some are older than me and some are younger and I love them all. My best advice is to listen to people who have been there before you. They have a lot of good advice because they have worked through potty training a child, getting tubes in their ears, preschool teachers, etc.

Favorite place to buy children's clothes?
Peaches 'n' Cream outlet in Burlington- they have the cutest play clothes for really good prices and it is fun for me because my mom used to take me there as a child and now I get to dress my girls from there. I also love home shows. I am the rep for a line- Castles and Crowns and some of my best friends sell Ragsland, Chez Ami, and Beaux et Belles. They all have cute and different things. McCalls is my favorite store in Winston-Salem. They have some of the most beautiful baby things and great gifts for baby showers and baby gifts.

Favorite place to take your whole family to dinner?
Twin City Diner- great kids and adult menu. Lots of selection.

Favorite Date night spot?
David and I love Mozelles or Milners. We also love Ryan's for special occasions.

Favorite Girls Lunch Spot?
The Carving Board- it is my all-time favorite spot in Winston. They have the best blue cheese chicken salad and spicy noodles!

Favorite Mani/Pedi spot?
Deja Vu- everyone there is so nice!

Favorite park in the Triad?
I love Hathaway and Polo Parks. Polo has great equipment for really little ones like my youngest (21 months).

What is your favorite fall family activity?
Going to the Pumpkin Patch at Maple Springs Methodist Church on Reynolda Road and picking out pumpkins and taking lots of pictures. My girls love all the pumpkins and have the hardest time picking out just one! We also love the Festival on the Quad at Wake Forest University which they have every year in the fall during Homecoming weekend. My girls love seeing the Deacon and the cheerleaders.

Best thing about raising a family in the Triad?
I love all the small town feel with big city opportunities. I love seeing people I know when I go out, but I love the access to sporting events, art events, museums, parks, etc that my children and my husband and I have living here. I love being with so many other young families too.

Smartiest way you save $?
Lowesfoodstogo.com. Ordering my groceries online is not only a time saver for me but it saves me $$ because I buy exactly what is on my list and don't get side tracked by things I see etc.

Favorite TSP article so far?
I love all the events that TSP tells me about, but I have to say that my favorite has been about planning a Disney trip. My oldest is obsessed with Disney princesses and we are taking them to Disney in the spring. I learned about Martha Nichols from TSP and called her up and she planned the whole trip for me and made all the reservations for dinners and shows and really helped us save money. It has been so easy and she has given us such great advice. I would not have known where to start if it hasn't been for this article and finding Martha!

Best book you've read lately?
I actually have 2: Lift by Kelly Corrigan- she writes a letter to her girls about everything she wants them to know about her and their life. It is an easy read and such an inspiration. I would tell every parent to read it. My other favorite lately has been: Bringing up Girls by James Dobson. It was a fabulous parenting book!

Favorite Smarty phone app?
facebook! I love keeping up with friends and being able to connect with friends this way....doing on my phone makes it easy when I am waiting for an appt, etc.

I could not live without my...
...phone or computer. I love being able to connect with my family and friends and I love finding things on the internet= events, locations, shopping etc.

I wish someone told me sooner about...
...The All A Flutter Butterfly Farm. We went just recently and my girls loved it, but so did I! It was amazing to be able to feed the butterflies and hold them and I couldn't believe how much my oldest and I learned about butterflies. We can't wait to go back when it reopens in the spring.

Best kept secret in the Triad?
The Nutcracker performed every December by The University of North Carolina School of the Arts. I lived here for 12 years before I went to see it and now I don't want to miss it. It is such a holiday treat and I took my oldest last year and she loved it. She has already asked if we are going again this year! The students there do a fabulous job in this performance!

Thanks, Shelley, for sharing your story with us!

Do you know a super cool Smarty mom, dad or just someone doing something fantastic in our community? Well we want to know them! We are reaching out to you to “mominate” those who you admire, have a great story, live life to the fullest or have created a Smarty Business. We have been fortunate to share the stories nearly 100 area moms and dads! We have laughed at common stories, been reassured that other families go through the same things that we do, been introduced to new restaurants, shown the way to fantastic bargain shopping, met new moms and gained wisdom from the old pros. Email us your peeps!

Momma's got a brand new bag

2010-10-15T05:00:00.002-04:00

By Susan

Pocketbook, purse, diaper bag, suitcase...what's holding your junk? Currently, my junk is riding high in my Nest Diaper Bag.

I have the Mercer model in wine. Now before everyone starts sending me hate mail on how expensive this sucker is, let me talk first. It's listed for $385 (yes, ridiculous) but I found it cheaper online elsewhere for $300 and free shipping and no tax so the Nest Diaper Bag Man (Ken) let me have it for that. Just saying. Not all of the Nest Diaper Bags are quite that expensive.

I heart this bag and it loves me right back. It holds my sippy cups, snacks, dipes, wipes, makeup, hairbrush, Blackberry, bib, placemat, wallet, toys, keys, coupons, church envelopes, mail, checkbook, lunch for work days. Best of all, I carry it to the office!

Favorite Features of My New BFF:
(1) lining that unzips so you can throw in the wash
(2) 6 pockets inside - 2 for sippy cups (for Clay & Ella James), 1 for bottle of water (for moi), 1 for Blackberry, 2 for other stuff
(3) zippered inside pocket for makeup, Advil, gum, work badge
(4) roomy interior
(5) removable stroller strap plus 2 handles (although it might tip the stroller over b/c it's a beast)
(6) outside pocket with magnetic closure for coupons, to do list, etc.
(7) zippered compartment at bottom of bag for dipes, wipes, bib, diaper creme, placemat
(8) stylish details like brass "feet"as well as gorgeous suede and brass trim

I searched high and low for a bag that could work as a double agent (office worthy and high functioning diaper bag) because I'm too dumb to effortlessly switch between diaper bag and purse. After the 95th time I left my wallet or Blackberry or work badge in my diaper bag during the purse switcheroo process, something had to change.

I've gotten so many compliments on this bag - all from work people and non-Mommies who just like how it looks. They are floored when I proudly show them that it's a friggin' diaper bag. I can actually hear my husband rolling his eyes right now as I type. He's informed me that people compliment me on it because they think it's so ugly and obnoxious that they have to say something and they obviously aren't going to tell me they hate it. Whatever.

Now that we've covered the upside, let me cover the small downside - nothing but full disclosure here. I may need a chiropracter soon because this bag has it's own zipcode. It is a bit heavy (but not as heavy as my 25 lb 17 month old son so at least I'm balanced now - toddler on one hip and diaper bag on the other).

When it comes to pocketbooks, I'm firmly rooted in the "once-you-go-big, you-never-go-back" camp. I've finally found my true love! I may be addicted and must admit that I do want another one of these bags to add to the mix but I know that's the crazy talking. So for now, I'll just love the one I'm with!

Trusting your instincts

2010-10-14T05:00:00.000-04:00

By Krista

Before I became a mom, I would roll my eyes when my own mother would spout out the words, “a mothers intuition”. What did that mean? How could she just “know” something wasn’t right? Well, four years and four kids later, I believe (and strongly) in a “mothers intuition”. Twice now, my intuition changed the course of my life . . .

One year ago (practically to the day), I started to feel very nervous about my pregnancy. I was carrying a precious baby girl who was due to join our family in the fall. I loved her and felt her every move. Until one day, when her movement became erratic and just plain “off”. I called the doctor and they told me to count her kicks, which I did. She passed this “test” with flying colors and I went on throughout my day. But, not really. In my heart, I felt something wasn’t right. Why did she stop moving for so long? Why did her kicks come and go? Was this normal because she was getting bigger, or was this a sign that something was terribly wrong? My “motherly intuition” nagged me for days. Finally, I insisted I come in for a stress test so the doctors could see on a monitor what I was feeling internally. It was too late. My daughter she was gone from us forever.

That late September day, I vowed never to trust anyone over my “intuition”. After all, my feelings might be wrong, but what if they are right? In this case, they were right and I paid a hefty price for not being more aggressive about following my “intuition”. I’m not saying I could have stopped the horrible tragedy that was ahead of us, I’m just saying I might have been able to do something. What . . . I’m still not sure.

A year later, I followed my instincts (which sent me straight to an emergency c-section where I delivered our twin boy and girl). During this pregnancy I was aggressive, over-involved, and to the point of almost demanding. I requested stress tests even when the doctors didn’t think it was necessary. It was necessary to me. I also requested ultrasounds constantly so I myself could see the heartbeats and flow of blood in and out of their cords. I was my biggest advocate and I was the one who caught a near deadly mistake.

A week ago my twins were born. I went to the doctors office for my weekly stress test. My sons heart rate wouldn’t stay stable. The doctors claimed it was my own heart beat being picked up on the screen, not his. This answer did not sit well with me. Maybe this was the case, but maybe not? I went into Labor and Delivery to be checked out. They couldn’t find his heart rate but kept trying and trying with the monitor. I finally told the nurse they needed to do an ultrasound to see him closer. She was somewhat take aback. I insisted. What they found changed the course of my life, forever. Our son, Quinn, had almost no fluid left. This should have been picked up on the three ultrasounds I had the previous week, but it wasn’t. The doctor looked me straight in the eye and called an emergency c-section. Low fluid can result in umbilical cord injuries. The twins were born hours later.

They are here, early, but here. Our daughter spent five days being cared for in the NICU, our son nine. But, they are here and healthy. My intuition saved them. So, never, ever doubt what your heart says. The worst case is that you could be wrong, but what would happen if your heart was right? As a mother you need to be in charge of your life. Taking charge sometimes means being aggressive when the moment is right.

Smarties, follow your “motherly intuition” . . . it might change the course of your life.

Congratulations to our Smarty Winners!

2010-10-13T14:06:00.006-04:00

A big Smarty congrats goes out to our winners of the Veggie Tales Live! Sing Yourself Silly show today.

Our winners to the 1:30pm matinee are Kristen Machado, Elizabeth Schaaf, Heather Higginbotham and Cortney Long.

Winners to the 6pm show are Courtney Tucker, Karin Eddinger, Whitney Stanton and Kelly Hoopingamer.

For the rest of us attending the show tonight, remember to use this handy coupon to get $3 off each ticket purchased when you redeem it at itickets.com. Enter "TriadSmarty" at checkout.

Smarty Scoop on Weekend Activities!

2010-10-13T05:00:00.001-04:00

By Jennifer J

We’re over the hump, Smarties! Here’s the scoop on some fun fall activities to enjoy with your family this weekend. This weekend there are not one, but TWO Touch-A-Truck events, so whether you live in Winston-Salem or Greensboro, there’s a Touch-A-Truck happening in your neck of the woods!

Paws to Read
Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem
October 15, 11:00am
Free with admission to museum, $7.
Storytime is made even better when you’re joined by the therapy-certified dogs of the Winston-Salem Dog Training Club. Kiddies will be able to pet the dogs, watch them perform special tricks and even have the opportunity to read to them!

Center City Cinema
Center City Park, downtown Greensboro
October 15, 8:00pm
What’s fun for school-age kids? An outdoor movie in the park! Enjoy a picnic in Center City Park before settling down to watch a free showing of kid-friendly “Akeelah and the Bee.” Popcorn and candy available for purchase.

Jamestown Elementary Fall Festival
Jamestown Elementary, 108 Potter Drive, Jamestown
October 16, 12:00pm-10:00pm
Celebrate fall at a festival with games, rides, food and vendors. Admission is free; rides and other activities have small fees.

Harvest Hoedown
Greensboro Children’s Museum
October 16, 5:00pm-8:00pm
Get out your boots and bandanas for some good, ol’ country fun. The Nut Bush Ramblers will be performing bluegrass while you chow down on a BBQ dinner. There will be hayrides, farm animals, square dancing and fall crafts. $15 per person/$20 at the door. Children under two, free.

Touch-A-Truck, 2 Locations:
What young child doesn’t love an opportunity to sit in the driver’s seat of the gleaming cab of a freight truck or see what it’s like to run in the tipper of a dump truck? This weekend, there’s no reason to miss out because there’s a Touch-A-Truck event taking place near you!
1)Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem
October 17, 1:00pm-5:00pm
$5 per person for members and non-members, includes admission to museum.
2)Festival Park, Davie St., downtown Greensboro
October 17, 12:00pm-4:00pm
$5 or $15 for group of four, children under 2 free.
Featuring music by Big Bang Boom and other children’s activities.
Sponsored by Junior League of Greensboro.

Get out and enjoy this beautiful weather, Smarties!

Who wants free tickets to Veggie Tales Live! Sing Yourself Silly on Wednesday? We've got 32 to give away!!

2010-10-11T22:00:00.000-04:00

Smarties, we're excited to hook you up with 32 FREE tix to VeggieTales Live! Sing Yourself Silly in Winston-Salem on Wednesday, October 13. The shows, a 1:30p matinee and an 6:00p evening performance, will be at 1st Presbyterian Church in downtown Winston-Salem.

Get ready for singing, dancing and a whole lot of fun when Bob and Larry hit the road this fall with the VeggieTales Live! Sing Yourself Silly tour. See your favorite Veggie friends live and on stage as they perform the hits you know and love. The event will entertain with larger than life characters and WOW moments that guarantee fun for the whole family!

5 lucky Smarties will win (6) General Admission tickets for each show, 15 for the 1:30 PM and 15 for the 6 PM, tickets have a value of $15 each. In addition, 2 lucky Smarties will win 2 Gold Circle seats for each show (4 total, $25 value each). Gold Circle ticket holders have reserved seating and get to experience a meet and greet with Bob and Larry after the performances! This is H-U-G-E!

For the rest of us attending the show tomorrow, use this handy coupon to get $3 off each ticket purchased when you redeem it at itickets.com. Enter "TriadSmarty" at checkout.

So how do you score tickets? All you have to do is leave your name in the comments section below and indicate which show you'd like to attend and why you love TSP. Then email us so we can get your name to will call for you to collect your tix. Thanks for reading and good luck, Smarties!

Top 21 "Best Bet" Booster Seats

2010-10-11T05:00:00.003-04:00

By Ashley H

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety recently released their top "Best Bet" ratings for booster seats providing a correct fit across a range of vehicles. There were 21 boosters total in the top rated category. Since being Smarty about choices for our families is goal #1 here at CSP, we wanted to recap their tips and findings to keep our Smarty families as safe as possible while on the road.

The Smarty Facts (as issued by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety):
When deciding on the best booster for your child, fit is first. This is a case when you need to completely ignore pretty. Something that matches your style won't save your child from injury (or worse yet, life) in an accident if the fit is not correct.

Booster seats are getting better and safer. Last year only 9 boosters made the "Best Bet" list, this year it's 21. Bravo to those companies for the commitment to excellence! Another 36 models received marginal marks because while they may fit some children in some vehicles, they didn't measure up with an optimal fit across enough vehicles.

When you shop for the best booster for your child, pay close attention to each booster seat diagram outlining how the seat belt should lie across your child's shoulders and lap. While a poorly positioned belt could safe lives, it could also result in risk of internal injuries in a crash.

A secure seat belt fit= shoulder belt should fit across middle of the joint, not too close to neck nor too far. When the belt is too close to neck children often get uncomfortable and wriggle out, when too far over it allows for too much movement and puts them at grave risk in event of accident. The lap belt should be positioned across the thighs (when it falls across the abdomen it puts child at risk for damage to intestine and spine in a crash).

A common misconception is that high backed boosters are safer than backless, however both options made the top 21 list.

As always, the safest option is to have your booster seat checked in your area with a car seat fitting station, most of the time these are free though some may require an appointment. Quickest way to find one of these is to type your community and "car seat fitting" in to your search engine.

21 top-rated booster seats (*good mix of all price points)
*Britax Frontier 85 (combination highback); about $210
*Chicco Keyfit Strada (dual highback); about $170
*Clek Oobr (dual highback); about $275
*Cosco Juvenile Pronto (dual highback); about $30
*Cybex Solution X-Fix (highback); about $200
*Eddie Bauer Auto Booster (dual highback); about $80
*Evenflo Big Kid Amp (backless); about $25
*Evenflo Maestro (combination highback); about $60
*Graco TurboBooster Crawford (dual highback); about $45
*Harmony Baby Armor (dual highback); about $115
*Harmony Dreamtime (dual backless); about $50
*Harmony Dreamtime (dual highback); about $50
*Harmony Secure Comfort Deluxe (backless); about $20
*Harmony Youth Booster Seat (backless); about $30
*Maxi-Cosi Rodi XR (dual highback); about $120
*Recaro ProBOOSTER (highback); about $130
*Recaro ProSPORT (combination highback); about $280
*Recaro Vivo (highback); about $90
*Recaro Young Sport (combination highback); about $250
*Safety 1st Boost Air Protect (dual highback); about $240
*The First Years Pathway B570 (highback); about $75

For the Institute's full report of "Best", "Good" and "Not Recommended" click here.

Have you tried Greek yogurt?

2010-10-10T05:00:00.004-04:00

By Jen P

My latest fave to pack in my kids' lunchboxes is Greek yogurt. It is absolutely delicious, nutritious and chock full of protein. Those three adjectives together are a score for me!

Greek yogurt is made thicker by straining off the liquid whey from conventional yogurt. It’s the straining that concentrates the protein content. Greek yogurt has more than twice the protein of non-Greek yogurts with over one third of your daily protein requirement in a single serving of yogurt and low in fat - WOW!

The brands I like are Fage and Chobani - both are equally delish and have lots of yummy flavors. My kids like Fage with honey, we usually buy the plain and add our own local honey. I am currently always craving but never feeling guilty about Chobani's Pomegranate yogurt, and fat-free to boot. These Greek yogurts are 100% natural, no added sweeteners, thickeners or preservatives. They are great for diabetics, expecting moms and people on gluten-free diets.

No fat and only 100 calories? You just cannot beat that! Add some fresh fruit, a drizzle of honey, homemade granola, your favorite cereal, chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, crushed graham crackers, you name it, everything goes with this yummy delight!

Fage and Chobani can be found at your local Harris Teeter, Food Lion and some Costcos. Enjoy!

Smarty Mom: Beth Southern

2010-10-09T05:00:00.001-04:00

It's Smarty Mom Saturday and we're excited to introduce you to Beth Southern. Beth is married to hubby, Bill, for five years and is brand new mommy to Kate (5 months). Beth is a Greensboro native and she and her family currently live in King.

Beth is a full-time working attorney hailing from UNC-Chapel Hill undergrad and the University of Texas for law school. She is a corporate and securities attorney with Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice, PLLC in Winston-Salem, while her husband is a District Court Judge.

Let's meet Beth!

As a brand new mommy, what was the biggest challenge in going back to work?
Mommy guilt! I feel guilty when I’m at the office, because I’d rather be at home with my family, but when I’m at home, I feel guilty for not working.

What was the transition like adding a new little one into your mix?
The first month or so was a little rough. I really am a creature of habit, and there’s no such thing as a routine with an infant in the house! After the couple of months, things started to calm down a bit and I think we’re starting to figure out this “new normal.”

How do you balance your family/work/friend balance and what tips can you share with your fellow Smarties?
While I started out working part-time right after my daughter was born, I’ve ultimately geared back up into working a pretty full-time schedule. I think it’s all about flexibility. I don’t really think of my day as being broken up into designated blocks for work, family and friends. Ultimately, there are 24 hours in every day and laundry, errands, client needs, diapers and the occasional girls lunch or date night have to fit in there one way or the other. For me, that means sometimes getting to the office a little later in the morning so that I can run by Target on the way to work (which goes MUCH faster when there’s no one else there and you don’t have a baby in tow!) or working at home in the evenings after my daughter goes to bed so that my clients get what they need when they need it. I think you also have to remind yourself that it’s OK to ask for help. I’m a bit of a control freak, but I’ve found that I’m so much happier at work and at home when I let go of some of the little stuff and delegate it to others.

Let's move on to gear and fun family digs! What stroller do you have and what is your favorite feature?
I have a Chico Cortina stroller, and it has worked really well. I’m not sure that I have a particular favorite feature, but I think it’s well built and reasonably priced (so I don’t have to freak out if it gets dinged or scratched—or pushed through the barnyard exhibit at the Dixie Classic Fair as my mother-in-law decided to do earlier this week).

What is your absolute favorite piece of baby gear?
At the moment, it’s definitely the Fisher Price Jumparoo—my daughter loves it! It keeps her entertained long enough for me to start dinner, fold clothes or read the occasional magazine. I’m also a big fan of the Fisher Price Cradle n’ Swing, the official sponsor of naps in the Southern household!
Minivan or SUV?
SUV. I definitely appreciate the comfort and convenience of the minivan, but like elastic waist jeans, it’s just not a place I’m prepared to go.

How have you made new mommy friends and what advice can you share?
Luckily, most of my friends have become my “mommy friends” by default as we’ve all had kids within the past year or so. I think that getting involved in local organizations (church, Junior League, etc.) is a great way to meet other moms in town.

What is your favorite place to buy baby clothes/gear?
I love Once Upon A Child and eBay for smocked and boutique-quality outfits at a fraction of the price of some other shops. When I’m looking to splurge or buy cute baby gifts, I really like the Lollypop Shoppe in Greensboro and Rolly’s in Winston-Salem.

What is your favorite place to take your whole family to dinner?
Love, love, love El Maguey Mexican restaurant in Pffaftown. The food is great, and the service is fast enough that we can get in and out before my daughter starts squirming all over the place.
Favorite date-night spot?
Lately, the living room in my house! Getting a babysitter for a 5 month old can be a little tricky, so my favorite date night splurge is sushi from Sakura in Winston-Salem. They have a great drive-through window, so I can call in my order before I leave the office on Friday afternoon, pick it up on the way home, and leave it in the frig until after my daughter is asleep—voila—wine and sushi date night!

Favorite girls lunch spot?
The Loop at Thruway Center or Village Tavern on Reynolda Road.

Favorite mani/pedi spot?
Van Davis Salon at Thruway Center.

Best thing about raising a family in the Triad?
I think the Triad area really does provide the best of all worlds—there are great shopping, dining and entertainment options all in an area that has manageable community, great schools and an affordable cost of living.

Smartiest way you save $?
Amazon.com is a great place to find super deals on diapers, wipes and baby food. When you sign up for their free “Amazon Mom” membership and choose auto-delivery, you can save 30% on all of your diaper and wipes purchases—and have them delivered right to your door for free!

Favorite TSP article so far?
Mommy Guilt from June 2010.

As a new mommy, what topics would you like to see covered on TSP that would help you through this crazy little thing called mommyhood?
I’d love to see some articles about typical challenges with kids (teething, sleep issues, the “terrible two’s”, etc.) from moms who have been there and done that. I always love hearing what tips and tricks worked for other people’s kids—or, at a minimum, knowing that I’m not alone!

Best book you've read lately?
“Balance Is a Crock, Sleep Is for the Weak: An Indispensable Guide to Surviving Working Motherhood” — incredibly funny, with some good advice to boot!

Favorite Smarty phone app?
Google reader. It lets me keep up on all my blog reading (including TSP!) when I’m waiting at the doctor’s office, getting a pedicure, etc.

I could not live without my...
...husband. That man is a saint and there is no way I could be a working mom if I didn’t have all of his help with the cooking, cleaning and childcare.
I wish someone told me sooner about...
... The book “The Happiest Baby on the Block”—I swear, those techniques have been a lifesaver for us!

Best kept secret in the Triad?
New South Diner. The food and wine list are special enough to qualify it for a date night, but it’s causal enough that you can bring the whole family.

Thanks, Beth, for your super Smarty interview today! Smarties, if you have a Smarty Mom OR Dad that you think needs to share their story, please email us with a "momination"! We'd love to hear from you!

Fashion with a bump

2010-10-08T05:00:00.002-04:00

By Guest Bloggers, Taylor Presson & Allison Bumgardner

When we started having babies five years ago, maternity fashion was just getting started. Today’s new mommies have even more amazing and affordable options than ever before. We spent several afternoons hunting the latest summer and fall fashion “must haves” for Charlotte’s most glamorous mothers to be. It is simply “Fashion with a bump.”

On our personal fashion blog, we took a survey of our readers to find out what was the one item our mommy friends could not live without. Beating out designer jeans and jersey tops was our personal favorite, the Yoga Pant. We were so excited to find the newest discovery, the “Everywhere Pant” from the makers of the Bella Band, Ingrid & Isabel. Ingrid & Isabel have outdone themselves. This pant can be worn over the belly for more support, under the belly or as a skirt that hits mid-waist. We love this option because it covers the ever expanding rear view. The “everywhere pant” retails for $88. Liz Lange for Target has one of our favorite maternity fold over waist yoga pants. Check locally or order online for $29.99. Available in black.

Mommies today are more concerned with living a healthy lifestyle and need more transitional clothes that will take them through their pregnancy and afterwards. Transitional clothes like low rise convertible cargos, tunics and leggings, cardigans with adjustable ties and empire waisted comfy t-shirts. At Destination Maternity, Allison scored a pair of awesome cargos for $29 in the Motherhood line. Layer with a heathered tee ($19.50) and a new cardigan ($34) and you have an outfit you can wear straight through fall. Old Navy Maternity has some super cute jersey wrap cardigans in gray and khaki( $22.50 online) that will take you through your whole pregnancy and after!

All this research led us to a whole new level of maternity denim knowledge. We learned that each designer makes their jeans in a different way. Need more support? Try Citizens of Humanity. Most of their jeans fit “over the belly.” Paige denim specializes in under belly styles and J-Brand has super-cool elastic inserts to stretch with your ever-expanding belly! Destination Maternity buys their denim of choice and adds their own “secret fit belly” bands. Check there for hip denim lines you can’t find anywhere else. Our favorite new style for fall are the super comfy “Jeggings” from Citizens of Humanity. These jeans/leggings will look great for fall with sweaters, long sleeve tees and tunics. You can pair them with mid calf boots and head out the door. We could write a whole article on the great maternity denim from Old Navy. They have “low rise” bootcut jean currently on sale at www.oldnavy.com for $19 or the “full panel” flared leg jeans for $30. Not so sure about “jeggings”, Old Navy has the cutest pair of skinny jeans for $12.97 online!!

The cooler days of fall are here and we couldn't be more excited about the trends that come with it! Keep your eyes out for must-haves like anything with pockets, plaid ruffle shirts, boat neck sweaters and shirts, bold colors and patterns and a refreshing hint of anything tie-died. Whatever the season, maternity clothes are a fun part of the most special times of our life. Why not feel and look great?!

Smarty Scoop on Weekend Activities: 10/8-10/10

2010-10-07T05:00:00.003-04:00

Happy Thursday Smarties! Get a jump start on your weekend by planning to attend one of these Triad family events. This is the last weekend of the Dixie Classic Fair and they will be releasing the butterflies this weekend at All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm. Get out and enjoy!

Dixie Classic Fair
Dixie Classic Fairgrounds
This is the last weekend – October 8-10, Fri., Sun., 11:00am-11:00pm; Sat., 9:00am-11:00pm
This year marks the 128th Anniversary of what is revered as the 50th largest fair in North America and the second largest in North Carolina! It’s the Dixie Classic Fair –10 consecutive days of UNLEASHED excitement like no year before. 2010 brings a new and exciting line up of national acts and entertainment (with some old favorites, too), more fabulous Fair food, Blue Ribbon competitions, games of chance, thrilling rides and amazing animals. Yup, from 4-H livestock and the petting zoo to pig races, there’s plenty of UNLEASHED entertainment for everyone to enjoy. Adults, $8; ages 6-11, $4; ages 5 and under, free; seniors 65+, free.

$4 Fun Friday Nights
Greensboro Children's Museum
October 8, 5:00pm-8:00pm
Take advantage of reduced admission - $4, and have a date night with the family at Greensboro Children’s Museum!

Big Fun Friday
Children's Museum of Winston-Salem
October 8, 11:30am
Cling, clang, boom, bing, bang – it’s time to make some noise! Join us for music making, toe-tapping, game playing BIG FUN! Free with museum admission, $7.

Puppet Show: Farmer Kater and The Apple Tree
Old Salem Museums & Gardens James A. Gray Jr. Auditorium
October 8, 10:30am, 10:50am, 11:20am and 1:00pm
Growing apples is not an easy task for Farmer Kater until he meets a famous American folk hero. Cost is $2.

All-A-Flutter Family Days
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm
October 9
This is the last Family Day at All-A-Flutter! October-9th we will only have one show at 10a.m. attend this show, and at the end we release all of the butterflies!! Cost is Adults, $6; children, $5.

Pumpkin Palooza Party
Natural Science Center of Greensboro
October 9, 10:00am-1:00pm
Join us for our first festive Pumpkin Palooza Party! Kids can decorate pumpkins, play pumpkin-themed games and make crafts. Visitors of all ages can enjoy tasty pumpkin treats from The Fresh Market and watch the animals gobble up their pumpkin surprises! Event free with general admission and/or membership.

Pumpkin Farms 2010

2010-10-06T05:00:00.002-04:00

By Jen P

Back by popular demand....pumpkins, haunted trails and mazes...oh my! Thanks to your continued inquiries and input we've done a little digging and updated our Smarty listing of area pumpkin farms and all they have to offer. Many offer a great Fall family outing with pick-your-own pumpkin patches, hay rides, haunted trails, farm animals, nightly bonfires and more. Call ahead or visit their websites for more information, be sure to tell them you found them here!

If you have any other suggestions, please add them in the comment section below. Enjoy the search, and help us grow our list!

Greensboro Area
Mount Pisgah Methodist Church
2600 Pisgah Church Road, Greensboro, NC 27455 (corner of Battleground & Pisgah Church)
Operating the Pumpkin Patch is the primary fundraiser each October for the Youth Program.

Centenary United Methodist Church
2300 West Friendly Ave (corner of Elam & Friendly)
Pumpkin Patch throughout October
(336) 299-9643

Gethsemane Gardens
3707 NC 150 E
Greensboro, NC 27455
Sunday - Saturday 7 am-8 pm; mid June thru October
Roadside market featuring the following products (when seasonal): cucumbers, gourds, herb plants, peppers, pumpkins, squash, tomatoes, and vegetable plants. Directions: Located Hwy 50, 4 miles west of Brown Summit. Call (336) 656-3096 for more information.

High Point Area
Covenant Church United Methodist
1526 Skeet Club Road, High Point, NC 27265.
October 14th - October 31st from 9 am to 7 pm
Pumpkin patch, tractor-pulled hay rides, and haunted trail.
Group Hay Rides available upon appointment; Call or email to book your appointment; Great School Field Trip Price $3;50 per child (includes hayride, small pumpkin, storytelling and coloring stations). Directions: 1526 Skeet Club Road High Point, NC 27265 Take Wendover Avenue toward High Point. Wendover Avenue becomes Skeet Club Road. Church will be on left across from Deep River Park. Phone: 841-3242. Cash only.

Spookywoods Haunted House
1615 Kersey Valley Rd, High Point, NC 27263
Spookywoods haunted house in North Carolina is more than just a haunted house; It's the scariest haunted house in NC. It's an entire Halloween attraction park by night and hours of family bonding during the day at Maize Adventure and Kersey Valley zipline. Spookywoods haunted house and Halloween attraction also features OVER 130 LIVE monsters, ghouls; goblins, zombies, sophisticated animations, high tech special effects, and much more. Accepts Cash, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx. Call (336) 431-1700 for more info.

Winston-Salem Area
Clemmonsville Road
Between Ebert and Main Street (it will be on your right if you turn left off Ebert onto Clemmonsville, and on your left coming from Main Street). Look for big tractor at the entrance.

Maple Springs United Methodist Church
2569 Reynolda Rd, Winston Salem
(At the intersection of Polo and Reynolda Roads, near WFU)

Pine Grove United Methodist Church
1130 Jonestown Rd, Winston-Salem

Tanglewood Park
Tanglewood Farms inside of Tanglewood Park will once again be holding its annual Hayrides to the Pumpkin Patch October 1-31. The cost is $7 per person and includes your pumpkin. Call 766-9540 for reservations and information on group rides.

Other Areas Nearby
The MAiZE by Alpha Acres
Lone Hickory Road Yadkinville, NC. Owned and operated by Alpha Acres, a ministry of the Winston-Salem Rescue Mission. Great for school field trips - youth groups and Sunday school classes - birthday parties - corporate team building retreats - or a day of family fun. New 7-acre maze with waving American flag theme - kids maze - hayrides - cow train - corn cob cannon - water balloon launcher - pumpkin patch - swings and playground - great concessions - lakeside chapel / meeting hall for rental - and much more.

Iseley Farms
2960 Burch Bridge Road, Burlington, 27217
This diversified farm features fall crops including pumpkins, winter squash, apples and mums. One hundred and four acres are certified organic fields and a cow/calf operation consists of approximately 90 head of cattle. The beehives and many bluebird and bat boxes found on the farm are just a few examples of the environmental practices emphasized on the farm.
October Pumpkin Hours: M-Sat 9a-6p, Sun 1-5p

J.Razz & Tazz Farm
466 Peeden Drive, Gibsonville, NC 27249
Pumpkin patch, cow train rides, corn maze, haunted forest hayrides, tractor-pulled farm tour hay rides, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, school and social groups welcome. Crops are usually available in September, October. Corn maze: open Friday: 4 pm to 11 pm, Saturday: 10 am to 11 pm, Sunday: 1 pm to 7 pm; Haunted Forest opens for the season on October 3 and runs Fridays and Saturdays beginning at dark. Cash only. Directions: At the dead-end of Peeden Dr. off of Bethel Church Rd., beside of Eastern Guilford Middle School. Approximately 3 miles north of Interstate 40/85 and Rock Creek Dairy Rd. Phone: (336) 697-2473 and (336) 698-0519.

L.C. Faucette & Son
7566 Friendship Church Road
Brown Summit, NC 27214
Open Monday - Friday 8 am-6 pm; Saturday 8 am-3 pm; Year-Round
Come pick your own! Seasonal products available: beans, cabbage, cantaloupe, corn, cucumbers, greens, peppers, potatoes, pumpkins, squash, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, vegetables, watermelons, and zucchini. Located approximately 12 miles north of Greensboro, NC off Hwy 29 north. Take Hwy 150 east, go approximately 2 miles to Friendship Church Road then turn left on Friendship Road. Farm is located at 2nd brick house on the right. Call (336) 656-3927 for more information.

Millstone Creek Orchards
506 Parks Crossroad Church Road, Ramseur, NC 27316.
Open Sundays from 1 pm to 5:30 pm; Wed – Sat from 9 am to 5:30 pm.
Crops available by season: apple, cantaloupe, corn, peach, pumpkin, tomatoes, pecans, peppers, squash and watermelon. Hay Rides, Fall Apple Festival, Pumpkin Day, apple cider, gift shop, tours, & pick your own fruits & vegetables. Located approximately four miles east of Ramseur and 12 miles east of Asheboro. Call
(336) 824-5263 or (336) 824-2699 for more information.

Patterson Farm
10390 Caldwell Road, Mount Ulla, NC 28125
Phone: 704-636-4005
Every weekend in October has loads of fun activities planned for the entire family to enjoy including Paw Paw Carl's playground, hayrides, petting barn, and new for 2010, pig races! They also have many special events planned including Rowan Helping Ministries West Fundraiser, Military and Teacher Appreciation Days, Pumpkin Idol, Portraits in the Patch, Scarecrow Contest, Photo Contest and fun activities for Halloween at Patterson Farm. If you can't make a weekend plan, to attend the weekday 1:00 Puppet Show or the Little Hands on the Farm Pumpkin Day. Click the links to find out more details or visit our Calendar of Events page.

Peterson Farm
4255 Mt. Gilead Church Road, Sophia, NC 27350
Open: Monday - Saturday noon to 8 pm; year-round. Heirloom pumpkins and winter squash. Farm tours by appointment. From US 220 in Asheboro, take US 64 West 7 miles, to Hoover Hill Road turn right, 4 miles to Mt. Gilead Church Road, turn right. Farm .7 mile on right at sign. Call (336) 861-4062 for more information.

Sawyer Farms
6346 Beulah Church Road, Liberty, NC 27298
Pumpkin, squash, corn, gourds. Tours offered. Directions: I-40/I85 Hwy 62 south, 11-12 miles, left on Alamance Church Road (caution light), 1 mile right on Bellah Church Road, 1/2 mile on right. Also located 4605 Randleman Road: I-40/I85 bypass around Greensboro, NC south on Randleman Road, five and one-half miles to stand on left. Call (336) 685-9645 for more information and hours of operation.

Southern Produce
4942 Ellisboro Road
Stokesdale, NC 27357
Open Sundays through Saturdays through October.
Seasonal products available: beans, cabbage, cantaloupe, corn, cucumbers, onions, peppers, potatoes, pumpkins, squash, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, watermelons. Hay rides too! Located on Ellisboro Road in Stokesdale, one mile north of Hwy 65 & Hwy 158, 1.5 miles from Hwy 68 Easy Drive from Greensboro. Call (336) 427-2571 for more info.

Whitaker Farms
2991 Providence Church Road, Climax, NC 27233
Open Monday to Friday 9 am-6 pm; Saturday 9 am-5 pm
Cantaloupe, cucumber, flowers, greenhouse tomatoes, peppers, pumpkin, squash, strawberries, and tomatoes. Farm tours available. Two locations: Located at 2991 Providence Church Road, Climax, NC between Hwy 220 at Level Cross and Hwy 22 at Red Cross, 12 miles south of Greensboro. Also located at 4715 Hwy 64 East, Franklinville, NC between Asheboro and Ramseur. Call (336) 685-4888 for more information.

Tag, you're it, what did we miss?!

what's for breakfast?

2010-10-05T05:00:00.001-04:00

By Guest Blogger, Adri Warrick:

With the end of summer and fall classes in full swing, we have begun our early days with blurry-eyed kids that have exactly sixteen minutes to get dressed, eat breakfast and out to the bus stop, we have to stop and ask the question - what is for breakfast? The easiest solution is a bowl of cereal or a breakfast bar. Do you ever stop and ask yourself what is in that bowl of cereal or that chewy and super sweet bar? How long will that keep their tummies full and their brains alert? One of the most important things we can do for our kids is to send them out the door with the most nutrient packed breakfast.

It is important to pick a breakfast that has some fiber, protein and complex carbohydrates. Something that will keep them full, alert and have good energy while stabilizing blood sugar. If children experience dips in blood sugar it may result in behavioral changes and the inability to focus. I am sure as parents you may pack a lunch the night before and put some thought and time into the items you place in the lunch box. Approach breakfast the same way and think about it the night before. Pull out the ingredients or prep anything you can ahead of time. This picture is proof it can be done fast. It was taken at 6:40 am, the smoothies were made in the five minutes before my husband left for a business trip and the kids ate the peanut butter and banana slices before we could snap the picture. After a mad dash, Henk was out the door and on the bus at 6:57 am. Not my finest moment, but I wanted to be real about what mornings looks like!

Here are some suggestions for a quick and filling breakfast:

Green Smoothies

Scrambled eggs with a side of strawberries - don't dirty a bowl, just crack and stir in pan and add a little seasoning.

Sliced bananas with peanut butter - also makes a great snack. Use apples if your child doesn't like bananas

Cereal that contains protein and add berries - for fiber and fullness. Read the label on your cereals.

Instant oatmeal with berries - try plain oatmeal and add some real maple syrup or honey.
Yogurt with honey or maple syrup and berries - read the sugar content on yogurt as well as artificial sweetners.

Dutch Muesli

Whole wheat toast or bagel with a nut butter or cheese - look for a short list of ingredients on bread and that whole wheat is the first ingredient.

* For additional recipe ideas visit www.thewholetulip.blogspot.com

Don't underestimate the power of a good breakfast. Crowd out the bad by bringing in the new. Throw out the summer doughnuts and sugary cereals. Think about how you feel when your only fuel is 2-3 cups of coffee until lunch. You are jittery, distracted and grumpy. Our kids have some big shoes to fill now that they are back in school. You wouldn't let them leave the house without their backpack and lunch box so why would you let them leave without the fuel they need to get them through 'til lunch. Breakfast seems like an impossible task some mornings but if we insist that they get dressed and brush their teeth, can't we insist the same about a good breakfast?

Share some of your Smarty breakfast tips!

Adri Warrick is co-founder along with her younger sister of The Whole Tulip Blog. Married to hubby, Will, for 8 yrs and Smarty Mom of two boys, Henk (5) and Chase (2). She is a neuromuscular massage therapist and loves to run and cross train. The Whole Tulip is a site for people to find recipes that incorporate whole foods. Basically, cooking as close to the source as possible. They create and experiment with simple recipes to share with people who want to create wholesome food for themselves and their family. Adri is also currently enrolled in the Institute for Integrative Nutrition based out of NYC where she is studying to become a Holistic Health Counselor. She has a passion for the body and how it works and what it needs but don't be fooled, girlfriend loves her wine and chocolate as much as the next!!

Bald is Beautiful

2010-10-04T05:00:00.001-04:00

By Lisa K

There is a gene that my family passes from generation to generation, and it isn’t eye color or freckles or even our sense of humor. It’s the bald gene. You don’t see many kids with this trait, but when I see another big baldy I always smile, knowing this mom probably experiences what I do each and every day.

You see, my daughter Katherine is 9 months old and does not have any hair. She somehow has less hair now than on the day she was born. And the reality is that this isn’t going to change any time soon. It’s not unusual to see a bald baby in the first 3 to 4 months, but after that it gets tricky.

Katherine is getting bigger, has eight teeth and is looking more grown up. She is a big beautiful baby and people can’t easily identify her age because she has no hair.

And people are constantly confused about her gender. Sure my baby is wearing all pink, but with that short haircut, she must be a boy. “Oh, he’s so cute, or how old is he?” will be asked in every grocery checkout line or park I enter. Again I can only assume this is because people can’t quite figure out why I have a giant bald baby in my stroller or grocery cart. Even the director at my daycare slipped the other day and said –wow he’s getting big. Then she looked at me and realized – oh crap that’s Lisa and her daughter is Katherine.

I would put a bow in her hair to help someone identify the gender more easily, but I can’t, she’s bald. And I don’t mean she has short hair that I can’t put pig tails in. I bought those tiny bows that close with Velcro that only take a few strands to hold in place and I can’t make them work.

My husband really hates when people confuse his baby girl for being a boy and I see him stop at the sections of the store that have bows for little girls and he always flips over the package hoping to see something besides a clip there, some magic invention that will allow him to attach the pretty contraption to the head of his bald baby girl. It’s just not in the cards.

Katherine will eventually turn one and be a giant bald walking baby. I anticipate her hair showing up somewhere between 18 months and 2 years of age. That’s when mine arrived. It’s my gene that has people rubbing her dome and asking where her hair is. I don’t care, I think bald is beautiful.

Smarty Alert: Toys & Co 20% off Fall Sale is going on NOW!

2010-10-03T05:00:00.002-04:00

By Jen P

Smarty favorite, Toys & Co in Greensboro, is hosting their annual fall sale with 20% off everything in the store, their biggest sale of the year. This sale is going on now through Saturday, October 9th.

This is perfect timing to stock up on your holiday stash or just load up on some birthday party gifts to have on hand. We have our eyes on Playmobil, Lego sets, Calico Critters, Snap Cap bottlecap necklaces, train sets, automoblox, Kettler ride-ons, silly bandz, we could go on forever!

Toys & Co is hands down one of the best toys stores in the Triad, we love all things local! Happy shopping, Smarties, and don't forget to tell them TSP sent ya!

Toys & Co
www.toysandco.com
Friendly Shopping Center
3110 Northline Avenue
Greensboro, NC 27408
P: 336.294.1114
Hours: Monday – Saturday, 9a-9p, Sunday, 1-6p

TSP is HIRING!!

2010-10-02T05:00:00.001-04:00

You like to lay down some sass?! Well, lucky you cause, Smarties, we're excited to announce that we're calling out for bloggers! We loves us some fresh & funny as much as we love those with their (manicured) fingers on the pulse of all things cause-related, fashionistas, fierce foodies and multi-tasking mommas alike! Fresh off of a super cool mommy blogger conference in Asheville, we have some fabulous ideas and we want to get Y-O-U involved!

Are you a stay-at-home mom, working mom or part-time working mom looking for something fun to do to stimulate your creative side? Are you that go-to mom in your group, you know, the one who everyone calls to take to register for baby, or the one who is in-the-know on all things mommy? Well, we're looking for you, Smarty Mama! We want moms of all walks in Winston-Salem, Greensboro and High Point, so don't be shy...be SMARTY, send us your stuff!

Submit your writing samples, references and a description of why you want to become a part of our Smarty team to triadsmartypants@gmail.com. Looking forward to hearing from you and LET'S GET SMARTY!

Smarty Alert: Fisher Price Recalls Millions of Toys

2010-10-01T05:00:00.001-04:00

By Jen P:

Fisher-Price announced a recall of nearly 10 million toys that are considered dangerous to children. FP has recalled 2.8 million types of baby play areas with inflatable balls due to choking hazards.

The company found that a valve from the inflatable ball can come off and become a choking hazard. Fisher-Price said it was aware of 46 reports of the valve coming off in the United States and eight incidents in Canada. Quote from the FP announcement: "These include 14 reports of the valve found in a child's mouth and three reports of a child beginning to choke. No injuries have been reported."

More than 7 million tricycles were also being recalled because of a protruding part that had cut children. Fisher-Price also said it recalled about 120,000 small car toys because of at least two reported cases of the wheels coming off, causing a choking hazard. The company also recalled close to one million high chairs because of 14 reports of children being cut by the legs on the chairs.

For more information, go to the FP website. Customers can also call the Fisher-Price hot line at 800-432-5437 for more information. Check your stuff, Smarties!

Smarty Alert: Bet You Didn't Know This About Funigan's!

2010-09-29T16:00:00.016-04:00

By Katie M

We all know Funigan's is one of the best places to bring your child for fun and food - especially if you're looking for a place to burn energy after school, on days when you can't be outdoors, for birthday parties, or just because. But did you also know that Funigan's offers a before- and after-school care at its Winston-Salem location? And did you know Funigan's also provides a structured program for teens to have fun and hang out with their peers in a safe and non-threatening environment?

The "The Zone" is Funigan's before- and after-school program, and "The After" is Funigan's teen program. More information on both programs are below, including a special offer to Triad Smarty Pants readers if you enroll your Lil' Smarties in their before/after school program! Keep reading to get all the details!

If you work full-time or need a safe place for your child before and after school hours, consider "The Zone". "The Zone" is Funigan’s team-oriented after-and-before school care program that operates between the hours of 7 am and 6 pm. As a special thanks to Triad Smarty Pants, Funigan's is offering the following special: The first 20 Lil’ Smarties to register will save their parents 10% of their total bill for the first three months! Be sure to call our friends at Funigan’s for all the info, and to register your child (or children)!

And for teenagers, Funigan's offers “The After” for ages 14 & up. The goal was to create an atmosphere where teens could have fun and hang out with their peers in a safe & non threatening environment, without feeling like they were at a place for kids. The lights are turned down-the music is turned up!

Cost is $5 at the door which includes unlimited Rock Wall & Mini-Bowling. Tokens are purchased separately and just $10 will buy a 16 inch cheese pizza with a pitcher of soda.

On Friday, October 1st “The After”at Funigan’s will be holding a HALO: REACH TOURNAMENT at 10PM. The cost of entry is $7 until September 30. On October 1st the cost of entry will be $10. You can pre-register by either emailing your name and email address to hxctony@myspace.com or by coming into Funigan’s Family Fun Center during business hours and providing your name and email address. The winner of the tournament will receive a cash prize that night. There will be no foul language, fighting, taunting, or aggressive behavior; any seen will result in disqualification.

Funigan’s is located off of Stratford Rd. in Winston Salem, just beyond the Chili’s restaurant and Hanes Mall. Funigan’s features a 17 ft. rock climbing wall, 4 lanes of miniature bowling, largest SoftPlay in NC, lots of arcade games and great food. You can call them directly at (336) 774-7000.

Be sure to visit their web site and "like" their Facebook Fan Page to learn about special deals and promotions as they happen!

Supporting the Original "True Pair"

2010-09-29T05:00:00.014-04:00

By Rachel H

Come be a part of the Women's Only Sporting Clays Event! Our friends Trish and MJ at Seek the Triad are hosting this fun event, which benefits "Friends for an Earlier Breast Cancer Test." This will be such a unique way to meet friends and support a fantastic cause. We know you will have a "blast!"

Blastin' for Boobs will be held Saturday, November 6, 2010 at Shane's Sporting Clays in Summerfield, NC. You can preregister now at www.earlier.org for $35. You may also register the day of the event from 9am-noon with a $40 fee. Food and drinks will be served from 11am-1pm.

If you have never participated in sporting clays, it can be described as "golf with a shotgun." Last year, this event had a total of 125 female shooters (a record for Shane’s), 180 attendees, and raised over $7000 in one afternoon to help fight breast cancer! There is no experience necessary to participate in this event.

We hope you will consider joining the fun at this event! If you have any questions, visit www.seekthetriad.com, or call Trish at 202-8546.

Smarty Alert: Pick Up the Latest Forsyth Family Magazine!

2010-09-28T16:00:00.005-04:00

By Katie M

Keep your eyes out for the October issue of Forsyth Family magazine! It should hit the stands any day now. As always, the magazine features useful and entertaining articles for parents with children of all ages. Every month it's chock full of local resources for moms and dads, including its popular dining guide.

You can find this free publication all over Forsyth County. Be sure to pick up an issue!

Evy's Deals Are So Good, It's A Little Freaky!

2010-09-28T05:00:00.001-04:00

By Katie M

Halloween is just around the corner (scary, I know!), and Evy’s is prepared - at both of its locations (in Greensboro and Kernersville). From cool to creepy, bats to brooms, Evy's has the Halloween decor to brighten any room. And for Greensboro Evy's fans: Enjoy 20% off all Halloween items, and 70% all items in the front of the 2925 Battleground Ave store location!

At either location, you can expect a minimum of 20% off select items. And every week Evy's has category specials or tables with even deeper discounts. How do they do it? I don't know but it's not just freaky - it's fabulous!

Plus, Evy's is still celebrating its Moving Sale now through the end of October - with 70% off select items at both its locations (Greensboro and Kernersville). If you haven't heard, Evy's Battleground location is moving to New Garden Road/Bryan Blvd at Jefferson Village Shopping Center near Fresh Market. When the move is complete, Evy's will continue to maintain two great locations - both with fantastic gifts and decor at amazing price points.

To get you started on your shopping, visit Evy's Kernersville location at 126 South Main Street for a Wine Tasting on Saturday, October 9 from 2 pm to 5 pm. If you have a passion for wine, shopping and helping others, then this event makes for a great time out for you and your friends. A large selection of exclusive award-winning wines will be available with proceeds from bottles of wine sold going to charity. So, come out and enjoy great shopping incentives and a good time!

Don't forget to sign up for Evy's newsletter, and "Like" them on Facebook, so you can be in-the-know on all of Evy's fantastic deals happening weekly.

And guess what the staff did this past week? Unload new Christmas items! It never hurts to start your holiday shopping early. And with deals like these, who's waiting?

You are invited ...

2010-09-27T16:00:00.005-04:00

By Rachel H

The Ronald McDonald House of Winston-Salem is hosting a fun-filled character breakfast for your little princesses and superheroes! The date of the event is October 23, 2010. You must RSVP by October 13th.

Two Seating Times on October 23:
8:30 to 10:00 am & 11:00 am to 12:30 pm

Cost:
$25 per person. Children under age one attend free.

Please call The Ronald McDonald House at (336) 723-0228 for an invitation!

You can visit this link for more information.

Fabulous Health Education Classes for You!

2010-09-27T05:00:00.008-04:00

By Rachel H

We are happy to announce the following classes provided by Best Health. If you are interested in any of the following, be sure to call ASAP. Space is limited!

Tuesday, October 5
Kids & Antibiotics

6 pm - Join WFUBMC’s Michelle Wallis, antibiotic resistance program manager, to learn more about when antibiotics are right for your child. Space is limited. Pre-registration required by calling 336-713-2378.

Wednesday, October 6
Ear Health in Children

3 pm - Why are ear infections in children so common and how can they be prevented? When should you consider ear tubes? Join Dr. Adele Evans, pediatric otolaryngologist with Brenner Children’s Hospital, for answers to these questions and more. Space is limited. Pre-registration required by calling 336-713-2378.

Thursday, October 7
Evening with Eight – Plus Smitty! Being a Healthy Family in an Unhealthy World

6 pm - Join Jeff “Smitty” Smith, the “voice” of Winston-Salem community events, to meet new people and learn something new. Jeff will facilitate a discussion with Dr. Joseph Skelton, obesity expert at Brenner Children’s Hospital, about what has caused the obesity epidemic and how parents can prevent it in their homes. Dr. Skelton will cover topics such as fast food, snack foods, television, video games and more. A light, healthy dinner will be served. Space is limited. Pre-registration required by calling 336-713-2378.

Monday, October 11
Kids & Antibiotics

11 am - Join WFUBMC’s Michelle Wallis, antibiotic resistance program manager, to learn more about when antibiotics are right for your child. Space is limited. Pre-registration required by calling 336-713-2378.

Tuesday, October 19
Discipline: Promoting Healthy Behavior

6 pm - Concerned about your preschooler’s behavior? Need tips on disciplining your early school-aged child? Join Lynn Washington, licensed clinical social worker, and Debbie Allred, licensed psychological associate, of Amos Cottage Therapeutic Day Program for a discussion or behavior management strategies. Q&A session to follow.

Saturday, October 23
Heart-healthy Cooking, Family Style

1 to 2:30 pm - Parents and kids ages 9 to 12 are invited to join Chef Thomas Lantz for an afternoon in the BestHealth kitchen. Have fun together by learning healthy, yet easy, ways to prepare home-cooked family favorites. Space is limited. Pre-registration required by calling 336-713-2378.

Saturday, October 23
Halloween Trick-or-Treat Bag Giveaway

2 to 4 pm - Drop by BestHealth to pick up your free reflective trick-or-treat bag and reflective zipper pull to help keep your kids safe this Halloween. Donna Joyner, WFUBMC Trauma Services nurse and director of SAFE KIDS Forsyth, will also be on hand to share Halloween safety tips. Registration is not required.

The Women's Fund of Winston-Salem

2010-09-26T05:00:00.011-04:00

By Guest Blogger Jennifer Hodges

The Women’s Fund of Winston Salem: A Community of Passionate Women Creating Social Change

A few years ago, I heard someone mention The Women’s Fund of Winston-Salem. I didn’t think much about it. At the time as I was very busy with my newborn baby. A few years passed, and last November, I read an article in the newspaper about The Women’s Fund of Winston-Salem providing more than $162,000 in grants to local organizations benefiting women and girls. I was inspired to learn more and eventually joined the Fund to help make a difference for women and girls in our community. As a mom, I know it is easy to get caught up in taking care of our families that we sometimes miss important organizations in our community that are really making a difference. I’m sharing a brief snapshot of The Women’s Fund and hope you’ll think about joining too!

The Women’s Fund was founded in 2005 by five local women who were concerned that despite a strong connection between being female and poverty, low self-esteem, domestic violence, and inadequate health care, gender-specific programs are seriously underfunded. They envisioned an organization for women by women. Today there are more than 800 members.

The Women’s Fund of Winston-Salem strives to
- Build a community of female philanthropists
- Provide grants to local programs and initiatives that address the root causes of social problems
- Create changes in the knowledge, attitudes, thinking, and practices of individuals, groups of individuals, and the systems and policies of organizations and institutions.

There are many challenges facing women and girls in Forsyth County. Did you know?
- In 2008, the number of pregnant teens in Forsyth County could fill 15 school buses
- Full time women in the workforce in Forsyth County earn 76 cents for every $1 made by males
- 44% of women headed households in Forsyth County live below the poverty level
- Heart disease is the leading cause of death of women in Forsyth County

As members of The Women’s Fund of Winston-Salem, we vote on the organizations that receive grants each year. Grants focus on creating social change, not just providing social services.

On November 3, The Women’s Fund will celebrate five years at our annual luncheon, which is open to the public. Over the past five years, The Fund has:
- Awarded nearly a half million dollars to community organizations that address the core issues facing women and girls in Forsyth County: self-sufficiency, health and safety, leadership capacity, and family issues
- Improved the lives of more than 1,300 women and girls who have benefitted by our grants.
- Published first-of-its-kind research focused specifically on women in Forsyth County. Through a Gender Lens: The Economic Security of Women and  Girls in Forsyth County, April 2009.

By joining The Women’s Fund of Winston-Salem, you maximize your gift through the power of collective giving.

Membership in The Women’s Fund is $1,200, which can be a group or individual membership. So your book club, garden club, synagogue, church, playgroup, work, or neighborhood association could come together and if each person contributes, you could vote together on which grant proposals should be funded each year. How fun would it be to meet with your friends, discuss topics relevant to other women living in your community and vote on where you would like to see your money spent?

I hope you are inspired as I was to learn more about The Women’s Fund.

For more information, contact:
The Women’s Fund of Winston-Salem
860 West Fifth Street
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Phone: 336-714-3468
info@womensfundws.org

Smarty Mom: Angela Smith

2010-09-25T05:00:00.012-04:00

By Rachel H

I am so happy to feature Angela Smith as today's Smarty Mom. I met Angela a few years ago through a mutual friend and loved her personality from the minute I met her. She is so much fun to be around, and always seems to be up for just about anything!

Angela and her husband, Andy, have to children, Drew(8) and Hallie(5). They have lived in the Triad since 1999. Angela and Andy met in Raleigh, but actually grew up about 5 miles from each other in Eastern NC. Awwwww. Angela works part-time as a school psychologist with the WS/FCS. As a psychologist, her special interest would be autism. It is a population near and dear to her heart. She also volunteers with the PTA at her children's school. Angela loves her Fruit and Veggie co-op, and spending time with her friends from book club, bunco, and the neighborhood. Friends from way back also continue to play an important role in her life. She enjoys going to the beach with her family.

Last year Angela started a 5K in honor of her childhood best friend, who passed away in 2008 from Sarcoma. The 5K was called the Rae of Hope (her name was Rae Lynn) and was held in Ocean Isle Beach, NC where she was a physician. The race raised over $25,000 for the Sarcoma Foundation of America in their first year.

Can't wait for you to get to know Angela ...

Please tell us your best tips for managing your volunteer obligations and career as well as family and friend time?
Nothing is ever perfect, but it always helps if you have a schedule. I am not the most organized person so a calendar really helps, especially when the kids get busy with their activities. Fortunately, I only work part-time so I am home in the afternoons when the kids get home and we try to immediately get homework out of the way. I think play is still very important for them so sometimes I don’t even worry about making dinner just because we enjoy being outside and playing so much! We love to eat out on those nights! I don’t work on Fridays and I try to reserve those days for catching up around the house, running errands, volunteering, and doing a few things for myself.

What is your main job as a school psychologist?
My main job is to help students achieve academic, social, behavioral, and emotional success. To reach this goal, I may collaborate with teachers, parents, or other professionals to create a positive and supportive learning environment that meets the individual needs of each learner. Additionally, I may work individually with the student by conducting an evaluation to determine their eligibility for special services, assess academic skills and aptitude for learning, and determine social-emotional development and mental health status. In times of crisis, a team of psychologists may be called in to help families or schools in situations such as death, illnesses, or community trauma. They may provide psychological counseling to resolve interpersonal or family problems that interfere with school performance.

What tips do you have for parents who have concerns regarding their child’s learning?
First, maintain open communication with your child’s teacher. It is important to remember that there is a wide range of learning styles and rate of development among children. By working closely with your child’s teacher, you are able to stay on top any potential concerns that may arise and need to be explored.

Tell us more about the 5K you started in honor of your childhood best friend.
In 2008, my friend, Rae Lynn Yates (a proud Wake Forest graduate) passed away from a rare form of cancer called Sarcoma. It appears in a variety of tissue structures, including nerves, muscles, joints, and bones, collectively referred to as the body’s connective tissues. Unfortunately, the current outlook for many sarcomas is bleak-about half of all sarcomas are totally resistant to any medical approach. Rae Lynn was a doctor in Ocean Isle Beach and I thought it would be fitting to honor her memory by raising money to find a cure for the disease that took her life at such a young age. Last year, the first annual Rae of Hope 5K was held in Ocean Isle Beach, NC and raised over $25,000 for the Sarcoma Foundation of America. My children are reaching an age where they understand the importance of volunteerism and I especially want them to know how important it is to raise money for cancer research. My father has struggled with cancer for the last few years so this lesson is more important than ever to our family.

The 2nd Annual Rae of Hope will be held October 30th at 8:00 a.m. in Ocean Isle Beach, N.C. If you love running and the beach in the fall, this will be a great event! For more information or to donate, visit curesarcoma.org or email raeofhope5k@yahoo.com

What is the smartiest way you save money?
I love to re-sale my children’s clothes at consignment sales. I then turn around and spend the money at the consignment sales. I also love the 70% off sale at Gazoodles.

What is your favorite family activity?
We love spending time at the beach throughout the year. Both of our families have houses at the beach and our children love going out on the boat and collecting shells and sand dollars and looking for crabs. We pack a lunch and spend all day outside. My kids also love fishing with their grandfather.

Best advice you ever got from your mom?
My mom worked as a teacher and then school librarian when I was growing up. She taught me, through example, how to balance work and family. Through the years, I’ve been amazed at the number of her former students who have stopped her in random places and thanked her for the difference she made in their lives. Though I work with most of my students on a short term basis and therefore most of them do not remember me long term, I hope in some way I am having a positive impact in their lives.

Favorite “me-time” activity?
I love to read! I am always reading during the summer. I also read a few chapters each night before I go to bed. Although it is strictly for fun, I love to refinish old pieces of furniture. It is really fun to watch them turn into something completely different.

Favorite place to eat dinner as a family?
We probably hit the outside patio at La Carreta at least once a week. My kids love to run in the grassy area and we all love the food! We are all disappointed when winter comes and we have to start eating inside.

Favorite date night spot?
My husband and I are pretty casual people so we enjoy places like the Mellow Mushroom or Foot Hills Brewery on a date night.

Best place to eat lunch with the kids?
Chic-fil-A or The Bagel Station

Favorite place to shop for children’s clothes?
For girls, the Peaches-N-Cream outlet in Burlington. They have the cutest clothes at amazing prices! My mom took me there when I was little and now I take my daughter there. For boys, we go to the Gap or Old Navy.

What is the best birthday party you have attended?
I love throwing a kid’s birthday party so it is really tough to choose my favorite! My son’s 4th birthday party was in Spencer at the NC Train Museum on the caboose. What a blast! That year, he was really into trains so it was perfect! My daughter’s 4th birthday party was at Cash Lovell Stables and they did a fabulous job! We also had a petting zoo party for their 2nd and 5th birthdays that was a lot fun, except for all the snakes they brought!

What is your favorite mom’s must have item?
I keep a Tide To-go stick with me at all times! My kids and I are really messy and that thing is great for getting out stains!

Mini-Van or SUV?
Right now, Mini-Van but I am pretty close to switching!

What is the funniest thing one of your children has ever said?
I am lucky because I have very affectionate children. I always make them promise me they will still hug me the same way when they are older. This past Mother's Day I asked my five-year-old daughter as she was hugging me if she would still hug me like this when she was sixteen and she replied, "Oh yes Mommy!" I then asked her if she would hug me like this when she was twenty-one. She gave me a really funny look and asked me, "Yes, but will you still be alive then?" That was not the answer I needed on the eve of my fortieth year!

Favorite park in the Triad?
Tanglewood! It has everything! My son has recently started a golf program there this year at their Par 3 course called First Tee. He is so excited about it!

Favorite or most helpful blog you have read on TSP thus far?
I love your camp guide and your Kids Eat Free guide. I also love reading about other moms in the Triad! You can learn so much from other moms!

Thank you, Angela! And best of luck with the Rae of Hope this year!

Photo courtesy of Uppercase Photography.

Back by Popular Demand ...

2010-09-24T05:00:00.006-04:00

By Rachel H

We have had a few requests lately for people looking for my "Is It Just Me?" blogs. So, back by popular demand, here are the two blogs I wrote that I hope our loyal readers will enjoy reading again and that our new readers can add their own questions on at the end!

Is It Just Me? - Part I
Random ramblings, thoughts and concerns from an everyday mom. So today I am asking the question, “Is it just me?”

Is it just me who…

· Always gets mean looks from older ladies in the grocery store when I take my kids with me?
· Actually enjoys watching reruns of “Full House”?
· Is absolutely enamored by the muscles on the guy from the “Lazy Town” cartoon?
· Can drink two diet cokes and still fall right to sleep?
· Does not have my ears pierced?
· Is flattered when I get stares from construction workers in my mini-van?

· Misses the smell of a baby’s room?
· Consistently promises myself that tomorrow I will not just sit on the bench at the playground and will instead run around with my kids?
· Really wants to educate the country on the correct usage of “your” and “you’re”?
· Enjoyed wearing a bathing suit while I was pregnant because I was “large and in charge” and was not embarrassed about it?
· Now refers to people by their first, maiden and last name since that is how it is posted on Facebook?
· Literally hurts my kids when I hug them because they are so darn cute and I want to SQUEEZE them?
· Thinks Atari was better than Wii?
· Can watch the Evolution of Dance video a thousand times and still think it is funny every time?
· Enjoys embarrassing my kids?
· Kisses my kids literally 100 times a day or more?
· Would lie in bed pretending to be sound asleep when the kids would wake up in the middle of the night and hope my husband would get up to check on them?
· Doesn’t really understand the purpose of a rice cake?
· Never ever thought I would actually pick someone else’s nose until I became a mom?
· Majorly stresses over whether or not to send the kids to school when you can’t decide if they are getting sick?
· Wishes the “Land of the Lost” with Chaka and Sleestack was still on TV so my children could love it as much as I did?
· Thinks Chutes and Ladders can be the longest game on the face of the earth?
· Wishes the over-sized Forenza sweater would come back in style?
· Has kids that each have the potential to turn into a complete spaz by 7pm?
· Has dreams about PF Chang’s?
· Has been reprimanded by a complete stranger for making my son “walk too fast” in Target?
· Still uses the word Dude entirely too much?
· Is always talking to myself? Even in public?
· Laughed instead of reprimanded my toddler when he said, “oh sh*t!”?
· Does not understand how we are all still catching colds when everything we use kills 99.9% of germs?
· Always hopes my kids won’t finish their dessert so I can have it?
· Is scared to death of the teenage years?
· Thinks it is OK to eat most food that falls on the ground?
· Is still hoping to take piano lessons one day?
· Absolutely cannot stand the sound of someone’s teeth on a fork?
· Loves watching The Hills because it’s reality TV that is nothing like my reality?
· Loves the smell of rafts and inner tubes for the pool?
· Gets so excited when a Michael McDonald song comes on the radio?
· Gets teary-eyed when I watch my kids playing together and actually getting along?
· Has kids who know every ice cream and bagel shop within a 10 mile radius of my house?
· Is very leery of people who whistle?
· Has absolutely no patience for waiting in line anymore?
· Had a Nana that always smelled like Sen-Sens and really misses that smell?
· Catches myself singing along to kids’ music even when there are no kids in the car?
· Will admit that I love to play Word Whomp?
· Never wants my kids to grow any older than they are at this very minute?
· Thinks nothing’s better than lying in the grass and looking up at the sky on an 80-degree day?
· Can’t stand when people talk to their children really loud on purpose so that people around will hear them and comment?
· Tells my kids they can’t have a quarter for the gumball machine but then turns around and gets an ice cream sundae for myself for $4.00?
· Thinks that Ruby on the “Max and Ruby” cartoon is really bossy?
· Is still pulling for Britney Spears?
· Really thinks we need a drive-thru post office?
· Thinks we have way too many options for schooling these days?
· Can’t stand when teenagers called me “ma’am”? Am I really that old?
· Still does not have DVR?
· Is still praying that they will find Kyle Fleishmann?
· Heard my daughter’s four-year-old friend ask, “Why is your mom so grouchy”?

Is It Just Me? - Part II
More random ramblings, thoughts and concerns from an everyday mom.
Is it just me who …

• Has a son and daughter who have figured out how to tinkle on the potty together at the same time?
• Was accused of stealing a $5 toothbrush attachment at the dentist’s office?
• Does not understand why so many people do not like coconut?
• Cannot read the word cupboard without saying cup-board?
• Has never seen “Jon and Kate Plus Eight”, but feels a little sorry for that mom with all the negative publicity, because if I had that many kids I think I’d be a little grouchy as well?
• Gets nauseous on the Merry-Go-Round?
• Thinks there is a HUGE difference between Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and Reese’s Peanut Butter Eggs? The eggs win – hands down.
• Thinks that the things that get on your nerves the most about people are the same things we miss the most when they are gone?
• Likes how Goofy does the “Hot Dog Hot Dog Hot Diggety Dog dance on Playhouse Disney?
• Doesn’t understand why every kid’s toy does not come with a bag or box for all the million pieces?
• Wishes I could work at Dundler Mifflin for a day?
• Thinks nothing is more beautiful than a child’s face while he is sleeping?
• Knows that my daily attitude is directly related to the weather outside and the cleanliness of my house?
• Thinks that many movies on the Family Channel are not very family-friendly?
• Has no idea what to do with a Pokemon card?
• Wishes everyone knew that “definitely” is not spelled “definately”?
• Saw a squirrel in my daughter’s bedroom and ran out screaming while I left her standing there?
• Thinks I probably should not have admitted the above statement?
• Cannot believe my parents let me watch Three’s Company when I was young?
• Loves to listen to my kids when they talk to themselves while playing alone?
• Knows what SYTYCD stands for and is not ashamed to admit that I went to see the live show?
• Had a 3-month-old who always chose the quietest moment at church to make loud grunting noises while he pooped in his diaper? Every week, people, every week!
• Does not understand the purpose of all the attachments, ties, and rubber wrappy-things that securely hook a toy to the box?
• Secretly likes when my children are feeling sick because I know they will cuddle with me?
• Cannot say, “You’re the best” to anyone without singing this song from Karate Kid?
• Likes to watch The Suite Life of Zack and Cody?
• Spends more money on my kids’ clothes than on my own?
• Finally understands why my mom did not want me going to Myrtle Beach with my girlfriends in high school?
• Thinks that it is so much easier to pop in an old VCR tape than have to skip all the previews and get to the main menu when we want to watch a DVD?
• Must have watched Savannah Smiles a thousand times when I was a child … and cried every time?
• Knows there are many times when I am talking to my husband that I realize he is not listening to one word I am saying?
• Backed my mini-van into a mailbox 5 years ago and still has not fixed the dent?
• Thought this was the best Sonic commercial of them all?
• Wants to stand on the side of the road with a sign that says, “My family wants to go to Disney” and see who gives me money?
• Thinks the smell of honeysuckle takes me right back to my childhood?
• Thinks that every mosquito in NC decides to come to my backyard when we have a cookout?
• Can’t help but get all teary-eyed when I hear a group of children singing?
• Has finally accepted the fact that my daughter will never eat a vegetable unless it is hidden in V8 V-Fusion?
• Wishes the birds could wait just one more hour before chirping outside my window in the mornings?
• Never realized that “Twinkle Twinkle”, “Baa Baa Black Sheep” and the ABC song were all the exact same tune until I had kids?
• Loves people who laugh really loud?
• Thinks they should name One-A-Day vitamins “One-A-Week”, because that is how often I actually remember to take them?
• Cannot pull myself away from shows like Brett Michael’s Rock of Love, Bad Girls’ Club and The Real Housewives of anywhere?
• Wears my Greek Week t-shirts to the Y and has no problem with the fact that they say 1992?
• Really likes that Rock Star song by Miley Cyrus?
• Is mortified when another adult has to ride in my mini-van and witness the trash and mess that we ride around in?
• Thinks that Mama Mia, Mean Girls, Shag, and Mystic Pizza are essential movies for a girls’ trip?
• Would be more than willing to pay someone to come to my house each morning in the summer and put sunscreen on my children for me?

Add your own “Is it just me’s” below and please help me to feel better that it really is not just me!

Smarty Alert: Get Discounted Nutcracker Tix Now!

2010-09-23T16:00:00.003-04:00

By Guest Blogger Ann U

Last year, UNCSA’s Nutcracker received rave reviews for its enchanting new staging directed by Ethan Stiefel, Dean of the UNCSA School of Dance. In addition, new choreography, a spectacular new 26-foot tall Christmas tree and a flurry of other magical surprises received high praise from critics and the public alike. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magical spell that enchanted Winston-Salem last holiday season!

Tickets go on sale Monday, September 27, but you can get your tickets early at the Nutcracker Box Office Opening Kick-Off event this Saturday, September 25 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Stevens Center.

The September 25th kickoff event also will feature a variety of FREE fun activities for the whole family including art activities provided by the Children’s Museum, additional holiday crafts, refreshments and a chance to have a free photo taken with characters from The Nutcracker!

Those who purchase tickets at the event will receive a $5 discount off each ticket (cannot be combined with any other discount). The $5 off per ticket is eligible for walk-up sales to the Stevens Center Box Office on Saturday, September 25 ONLY and is limited to ten tickets per person per performance.

The full performance schedule for the UNCSA production of The Nutcracker is: Dec. 4 and 5 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 8 through 10 at 7:30 p.m.; Dec. 11 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 12 at 2 p.m.

For the best deal in town take advantage of the great prices on The Nutcracker “Family Four Pack” for the evening performances on Sunday, Dec. 5, Wednesday, Dec. 8 and Thursday, Dec. 9 only: $130 for Orchestra Side/Front Balcony and $95 for Center Balcony (not including $5 discount).

Bye, Bye Dora!

2010-09-23T05:00:00.013-04:00

By Susan B, Charlotte Smarty Pants

Dora the Explorer has been an unofficial part of our family for the past 3 years. All of this came to a grinding halt last week when I had a little “run in” with Dora. I strive to deal with conflict by addressing it instead of sweeping it under the rug. So, here goes…

Dear Dora the Explorer,
You need to remove the Dora cupcakes recipe and video from the Nick Jr. (see Noggin) website and also stop talking about them on TV.

After seeing a promo for your cupcakes on Nick Jr., my daughter bugged me for weeks. Everyday, it was: "Mommy, are we going to make the Dora cupcakes today?" I thought she would forget if I simply ignored her. She did not. I finally cracked.

Let me put it bluntly, Dora: these cupcakes were a total P.I.T.A. Your recipe says 70 minutes and that is a total crock. Admittedly, I'm a bit slower than your average professional cupcake decorator. But, c'mon, Dora. It took me more than 70 minutes to get everything prepped and mixed. Plus, this doesn't even count the time it takes to mix, bake and cool the cupcakes.

The entire process from buying the ingredients to piping out the hair to baking the cupcakes to dying the icing the correct color to decorating the cupcakes was very stressful!

I need you to know that before this unfortunate event, you were a she-ro in our house. We were all big fans of yours.

I'm concerned that you are being misrepresented. I recommend that you contact your people at Nick Jr so that you preserve your good name and save some other poor mom from falling victim to this scam.

I hope we've all learned from this and can move forward.

Dora, saying goodbye is always hard and I'm sorry it had to end this way. It pains me to tell you this but my daughter has moved on to the Disney Princesses.

Goodbye, Dora.

Susan Bowman, scarred for life

Move over sillybandz, Squinkies are in the house!

2010-09-22T05:00:00.006-04:00

By Jen P, Charlotte Smarty Pants

silly bandz are still a hip trend for kids of all ages. But there is a new collectible that I think will overpower the silly bandz frenzy by Christmas. Squinkies are squishy and adorable mini animals/figures inside of a plastic bubble that are pencil toppers or just fun little things to play with and collect. Squinkies remind me of when your child BEGS for a toy out of those vending machines that have cheap toys in plastic bubbles just as you're running out of the grocery store - only Squinkies are way cuter and cooler!

Squinkies come in packs of 16 or you can purchase the playsets and bracelet sets. The 16-packs retail for $9.99 and the playsets generally cost around $20-ish. Retailers and online sites can't seem to keep these little surprises in stock so the online prices seem to jump around alot. I found this gumball playset for $33.12 - I have a hard time believing that is a true price in stores. Squinkies are for kids ages 4 and up and personally I think they are geared more towards girls, but boys can like them too. My girls are 9 and 7 and they L-O-V-E Squinkies. This is their new go-to for a hip birthday present.

Word has it Squinkies can be found at Wal-Mart, Target and Toys R Us. They sell out just as soon as they hit the shelves, so you just need to check every time you shop. Good luck finding them, but know that your kids will love you when you do!

Have you heard of Squinkies? What do you think?

Smarty Sponsor: Summit School

2010-09-21T05:00:00.017-04:00

By Guest Blogger Suzanne Davis Campbell, Summit School, Class of ‘93

Summit is like family, and for me the beginning of this school year is like returning home for a family reunion. When I walked through the door on that first day of Junior Kindergarten my stomach had butterflies…What is it going to be like? Will it be fun? What will the teachers be like? This time, though, the experience was not for me, but for my little girl entering the same doors I had 28 years ago for my first day of Junior Kindergarten. You know the feeling…starting school, graduation, a presentation…all of these things give us butterflies. But once I got through those doors I remembered my days at Summit as a young student and I sighed with relief.

As I walk into the entrance of Summit, I see both familiar and new faces ready to greet me as if I am the same little four-year-old girl so many years ago. But this time they are here to greet my daughter who is stepping into her Junior Kindergarten class, and they are thrilled to see her as well as her classmates, some familiar with the school and some new to the family of Summit.

To me, there are new faces and new facilities at Summit, but the heart and the principles of the school are the same and so is the stellar educational program that prepared me for advanced coursework in high school and at a nationally ranked university. To my daughter everyone is new and the classrooms are new. To me it is still the same comfy,cozy place where I spent 11 years of my life. During that time I was taught French and Spanish at age 4, I spent a day living and working as a pioneer, and I made a speech in ninth grade to the entire school. I had a starring role in OKLAHOMA! and I had a "Big Friend" who was in fifth grade. I participated in a wide range of sports, created amazing art projects, and, most of all, was taught to respect and love everyone for who they are.

So you see, even though everything is new to her, my daughter already sees Summit as family – not only because she knows I spent my childhood here, but also because of teachers like Mrs. Turner and Mrs. Breakstone who give her the biggest hugs when she arrives and when she leaves. They have already made her feel loved and supported, and it is only the third week of school. No matter how new or old you are to Summit, everyone here is family. The teachers are here with open arms from the first day of Jr. K until the day you graduate and even as you bring your own child back. As an alumna, I have been blessed with not only the opportunity to grow up in the Summit environment of strong ethics and education but now I also have the gift of seeing my child join the Summit family and experience the same wonderful opportunities.

Are you part of the Summit School family? Tell us what you like best about Summit!

Smarty Alert: Mark Your Calendars!!

2010-09-20T16:00:00.001-04:00

Guest Blogger Ann U

Don’t miss the Open Dream Ensemble’s performance of their original play, Peril on the Red Planet, on Saturday, September 25, at 2:00 p.m. at Thrust Theatre in Performance Place on the UNCSA campus located at 1533 S. Main Street, Winston-Salem. The performance is free and open to the public, and is a GREAT program for families with children of all ages!

Peril on the Red Planet is set in the future and tells the story of 13 year-old Diana as she works to end famine on Mars. She reconstructs the machine that made human habitation possible on Mars and unexpectedly unleashes more problems. Her efforts to save life on Mars lead her on an important quest, during which she learns life lessons about community, responsibility, teamwork and sacrifice. Peril on the Red Planet is geared to grades 2-7 and is fun and informative.

Open Dream Ensemble is a professional multi-disciplinary children’s theater group sponsored by the Thomas S. Kenan Institute for the Arts at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts (UNCSA). For more information contact the Open Dream Ensemble at 336.782.7837 or visit www.opendreamensemble.com.

Secrets to What Is Going On at School

2010-09-20T05:00:00.001-04:00

By Guest Blogger Kelly Gunzenhauser

My older son has started kindergarten. It’s been a big change from cozy preschool. I feel a little lost, and my son has done the big-kid-clam-up. He won’t tell me what happens at school! Lots of kids do this. They just lived it; they do not want to talk about it again. Sheesh, Mom, give it a rest. But I am just so darn curious. OK, nosy. Here’s how I tried to find out what really happened.

First, I learned to ask better questions. The answers for, “How was your day?” do not tell me much. Yes-or-no questions do not really work, either. (“Did you eat snack today?” “Nope.” “Did you do any math?” “Sure!”) So, I have tried to craft better questions, “What was the best/hardest/most fun thing you did today?” pulls out more detail.

Second, I pay attention to when I ask. In the car on the way home is an okay time, but we only have a five-minute drive. Dinnertime is better since we all take turns talking about our days. I try not to do it at bedtime. He’ll talk to me, but thinking about kindergarten keeps him awake. I know this, of course, because of idea #3, which is:

I listen to my kid play alone. After the second night of kindergarten, my son took his cars to bed. (That’s normal, for us. Who cares if they are hard and bumpy to sleep with?) We turned on the monitor and heard, “Who knows what a hockey puck looks like? Raise your hands. Okay, now who has seen a hockey game?” He was “teaching” his cars. This idea led to my fourth idea, which was:

I asked him to play school with me. Oh goodness. Dad, little brother, and I all got in the floor in front of the chalkboard easel. I watched my little five-year-old transform into a teacher. He explained the behavior monitoring system, which took up a huge portion of the “lesson.” He taught us how to transition to centers, how to line up for the bathroom, how loud we could be (level 1 or level 2 voices, everyone!), and then he did a letter recognition exercise. It was hilarious to see him in total control. In fact, when it was time to stop playing and take a bath, he had a hard time giving up the control—and the play—and a meltdown ensued. He is begging to do it again, though.

My little guy is still just three. I know he will spill the beans when he gets home from his first day of preschool today. And he’s that kind of kid, anyway. But hopefully, my older one will want to play school for a while. I learn as much from him playing school as he does at real school!

Visit the Go-expo Next Weekend!

2010-09-19T05:00:00.006-04:00

Press Release submitted by Jenni Mowery

Inaugural GoExpo Sustainability Festival Coming September 25

The GoExpo, the Triad’s biggest-ever sustainability festival, is coming to the Benton Convention Center in Winston-Salem on Saturday, Sept. 25, from 9am -4pm to help families, kids, businesses and building professionals learn how to “go green.”

The Expo will feature information and presentations on green trends for homes, businesses, neighborhoods, schools, transportation, gardens and more. “We’ve really tried to cover all the different aspects of people’s lives,” Co-Chair Anne Tambling describes. “Whether it’s the schools their children attend, the transportation they use, the food they eat, the houses they live in, the neighborhoods they live in – there are sustainable aspects to all these areas. Most expos are vendor-based – you find lots of opportunities to buy things, ours is about information. We want people to learn about the tremendous advantages that come when you follow sustainable practices– not just environmentally, but financially for your home or business.”

Special guests include Sarah Susanka, architect and author of the best-selling “Not So Big House” series of books; and Sophie Lambert, the director of LEED for Neighborhood Development at the U.S. Green Building Council.

The GoExpo is being organized by the Community Sustainability Program Committee, an advisory body formed by the Winston-Salem City Council in 2008 to spearhead efforts to make Winston-Salem a more sustainable community. Jason Frichner, the chairman of the committee, says the GoExpo is intended to raise awareness of sustainability and the advantages it offers to residents and business owners alike. “We want to introduce the concept to people who may not understand it or have not bought into the benefits of sustainability, and show how it can change their lives for the better,” he said.

Highlights of the GoExpo include:
•Test drives of hybrid and fuel-efficient cars, courtesy of Modern Automotive Group, the presenting sponsor for the GoExpo
•Separate themed areas focusing on sustainability in homes, offices, gardens, schools, neighborhoods, transportation and construction.
•A GoKids area with hands-on activities for kids and learning opportunities for parents.
•Special workshops, seminars and exhibits for builders, architects and engineers, including classes that fulfill U.S. Green Building Council certification requirements.
•Four “green-themed” movies presented by A/perture Cinema, including two in the afternoon at the convention center.
•Free door-side “bike valet” service for bike riders who pedal to the GoExpo.
•Walk-through mock-ups of a “green” home and a “green” office.
•Exhibits of sustainable products and services for builders and homeowners.

For more information, visit www.GoExpoWS.com. We hope you will support this wonderful event!

Smarty Mom: Stacey Williams

2010-09-18T05:00:00.039-04:00

By Katie M

It's Smarty Mom Saturday, and there is no better mom to spotlight today than Stacey Williams. I met Stacey a few years ago when our daughters were in preschool together, and while our girls now attend first grade on opposite sides of town, Stacey and I can't seem to stop bumping into each other! That's a good thing because it's always nice to catch up with this smarty mom!

Stacey and her husband, David, have two adorable children: Katelynn, 5, and Ashton, 2. They have lived in the Triad for 14 years, and Stacey originally hails from New Jersey (another trait I like about her - wahoo Jersey girl!). Stacey works full-time from her home, and when she is not busy working or spending time with her family, she enjoys volunteering at her daughter's school, with Charity Chicks (where she is the fundraising coordinator), traveling, doing crafts with her children, baking, collecting shells/beach glass, and looking for coupons/bargins on the internet.

Let's catch up with Stacey!

Tell us about your job and how you manage your work and home life with two little ones.
I work as a case manager serving children and adults with disabilities. The North Carolina Division of Health and Human Services funds programs to assist families of children/adults with disabilities to remain in their homes rather than going into a facility type setting. I assist the families by maintaining a treatment plan and linking them to services in the community.

Balancing work and home life with being a stay at home/working mom has its challenges. I have found that being able to be flexible is the key. One special challenges we face as a family, though, is having my husband out of town for work on a regular basis. We keep in touch by using Skype (great thing) and having nights that we do something special when he is away and again when he comes home.

What does your husband do that requires him to travel so much?
David is a pilot with NetJets and is away several days a month. We like to Skype to fill him in on the day events (school papers, activities, show him new things they have learned since he left, etc.). We like to make sure that he is able to say good night to them when he can.

We are big fans of Charity Chicks. Tell us about your fundraising position, ways we can help you raise funds, and the latest news with CC.
As fundraising coordinator, I am responsible for obtaining funding and/or donated items for our Charity Chick events. If someone would like to consider making a tax deductible donation to one of our events we have throughout the year they can reach me at swilliams@charitychicksnc.com . Our Charity for 2010 is the Community Care Center. Our Chicks have been great with the volunteering and items donated to the center. Way to go Chicks!!! Our 2011 charity has not been determined but interested organizations should go to our website to fill out an application if they wish to be considered.

What smarty tips can you share about finding coupons and bargains online?
I do not have one favorite place on the internet to shop for bargains. Before I head out to the store I will look up a key phrase (such as the store name) with the word "printable coupon" and usually I can manage to find a printable coupon. Coupon Cabin is good site for this.

Favorite place for kids' clothes?
My favorite place to get kids clothes is the outlet malls. With so many stores it is hard not to find a bargain at one. (Can’t wait until the new outlet mall opens in Burlington!!).

Favorite place to splurge on kids' clothes?
Since I really do not like to spend a lot of money on clothes I can say that I will usually splurge at the GAP or Gymboree.

Favorite family activity?
My favorite family activity is to take day trips: Tweetsie, Grandfather Mountain, NC Transportation Museum, Hickory Science Center, SciWorks, NC Zoo, are just a few.

Favorite mommy time?
Doing crafts and baking with the kids.

Favorite lunch place with the kids?
Moe’s!!!

Favorite dinner place with the kids?
Cities Grill and Bar since they have the fountain inside and the projector that flashes different cities around the country.

Favorite date place?
Twin City Chop house. They also offer coupons!!!

Funniest things your kids have said?
My daughter: “Mommy, he barked a spider (means passed gas)” right in front of the man who did it. My son: I was putting my son down the other night and asked him to lay his head down on the pillow he told me “Mommy I have to think about that”.

Favorite park?
Tanglewood. The kids love to go and see the horses!!

Mini van or SUV?
Most definitely SUV. I love my Chevy Traverse!!!

Best thing about raising a family in the Triad?
All the kid friendly activities and the ability to explore the areas around us.

Best book you've read?
1,000 Places to See Before You Die. Let’s just call it my version of a bucket list. Of course I do have more to add on my bucket list beside the book.

Smarties ways you stay organized?
Write things down.

Who is your hero?
I would have to say my parents are my hero. They have been married for 37 years. I only wish they lived closer so we could see them more.

The one thing that I could not live without...my family!

Great answers, Stacey! Thanks for taking the time to share all your tips and tricks with us today, and I hope to bump into you - and your wonderful family - again soon!

Smarty Sponsor: Walkabout Tile

2010-09-17T05:00:00.013-04:00

By Rachel H

I consider today's sponsor one of the Triad's best kept secrets. Walkabout Tile offers custom tile work for any room in your house. You may even choose to bring in a drawing or picture of your idea, and they can design it! Or if you need help in the creativity department, don't worry, the staff can create a custom design for you.

Owner Stacy Lavery is an absolute joy to work with, and she makes you feel right at home when walk through the front door. I could have spent hours looking at all the different types of tile in this store. There were so many pieces that were not just "tile", but actual pieces of art. Walkabout offers custom tile, glass tile, Jerusalem tile, pavers and more! They also have stock tiles that home improvement stores offer, but the custom and specialty tiles are what really puts Walkabout Tile in a class of its own.

As always, I think that testimonials are the best way for our readers to learn about a business. Diane and Tom recently used Walkabout Tile to design their new bathroom and had this to say ...
"I now have a WOW ensuite master bath thanks to Stacy, Brett and the entire Walkabout team. Every time I walk into the bath I tell myself, 'this cant be my home!' The transformation is unbelievable. I did not think my budget would allow me to fulfill my wish list, but after one consultation with Stacy she knew the 'feel' I wanted and helped achieve it with budget. It surpasses anything I could have imagined.

Throughout the project, I received guidance and creative suggestions from the team. I cannot say enough about the quality of the workmanship and care to detail. They were in and out when promised and on top of project management! Words cannot express how happy my husband and I are with our beautiful new spa bath. We have already recommended Walkabout Tile to neighbors who plan to renovate. We also plan to use them for our next home improvement project."

You can read other client testimonials here on the website, and can also take a peak at the gallery of photos here. I can promise you that will be ready to "jazz" up a space in your home with tile as soon as you browse their website.

Walkabout Tile is located at 1116 NC Highway 801 North Advance, NC 27006-6756. They serve all of the Triad area. Be sure to visit the website if you need more information, or call (336) 998-2135.

Smarty Alert: Here's What's In Store at Boutique of Couture!

2010-09-16T16:00:00.001-04:00

By Katie M

In case you missed today's newsletter, let us fill you in on some spectacular sales happening now at Boutique of Couture. Just check out these recent promotions:

Buy an $18 shirt, choose a free scarf (one scarf per customer per day). Buy a dress, choose a shirt from the $12 rack for only $5. Buy a $9 necklace, choose an $8 pair of earrings for free. New items on the Clearance Rack for $10. End of the FANCY Wedding Summer Dresses for a steal, just $25 each!

Plus, Boutique of Couture will soon be receiving Miss Me Denim from the USA and Sawary Jeans from Brazil. All of last year’s denim on sale beginning at $29! Keep reading to get all the scoop!

New Fall fashions are arriving weekly, smarties! This fall is all about layering. Layer your scarfs, jewelry, leggings, sweaters, and don't forget your boots. After attending the Atlanta Apparel Mart, Boutique of Couture has ordered jeggings and leggings in different colors and styles. Good pair of leggings, jeggings, or jeans are a must for the Fall season.

Smell the fall air, and think SWEATER. In the next couple of weeks, Boutique of Couture will be getting the LONG Coat Sweaters. These sweaters start at $40 and can be worn as a jacket or a coat. Put on a long sleeve t-shirt, and one of these sweater coats and your are ready for the park, dinner, or the winery.

Boutique of Couture is a small boutique specializing is trendy apparel for the mom, the teenager, or a grandmother. The team of Hadley Reisig, Erica Sigley, and Maureen Wittmer are focused on giving personalized attention to our customers. They want each customer to only buy something if it looks good on the customer's figure. They are also happy to have people take items home and try them on with shoes and accesories. If an item does work, we refund or exchange within 4 weeks.

All the items in the store are resonably priced. Most fancy dresses start at $60. Casual dresses start at $35, and junior dresses start at $20.

Boutique of Couture also has new store hours:
Mon and Thurs: 10 to 6pm
Tues and Wed: 12 to 8pm for evening shopping
Friday: 10 to 8pm for evening shopping
Saturday: 10 to 6pm

Boutique of Couture also provides toddler entertainment in the back of the store. TV with the Jetsons, or even the water fountain sometimes is just enough diversion to keep little ones occupied while mom shops.

And don't forget to "Like" them on Facebook. You'll learn of these great promotions quicker than we can tell you!

So shop happy, and visit Boutique of Couture soon! These sales won't last long!

Birthday Party Idea: Simply Sassy Kids Spa

2010-09-16T05:00:00.023-04:00

By Guest blogger, Amy Takacs

Sugar and spice and everything nice, ribbons and curls because she's a girl. - Author Unknowned

Girls will be girls, won’t they? And they love all things pretty and sassy. When my oldest daughter, Natalie, turned 7 a few years back, she desperately wanted a girly spa party. I obliged by turning my house into a cute little spa for giggly little girls. I purchased all sorts of colorful nail polish, hair baubles, make-up, etc and set-up cute little stations at my house. This was a successful party, but a lot of work on my part. She still remembers the day of pampering fondly.

So, it didn’t surprise me this year when my youngest daughter, Claire, was getting ready to turn 7 and insisted on her own pampered shindig. Looking back on the hard work and exhaustion from Natalie’s party three year’s ago, I quickly remembered seeing the new Simply Sassy Kids Spa on Jonestown Road.

Simply Sassy Kids Spa is a day spa experience for girls, offering manicures, pedicures, makeovers and facial. Brightly decorated with tween-approved furniture and accessories, any girl feels special when stepping inside. Their Simply Sassy Birthday Party is every girls dream! They make sure the birthday girl and her friends are pampered from head to toe.

The Spa Sassy Birthday Package allows the little party-goers to enjoy makeup, a manicure, a pedicure and with the special flavor of your birthday month. Whether it be cotton candy or banana split, your fingers and toes will find it delicious! Or they can simply hang out in the party pad and chill with their friends! The party is filled with music, spa treatments, and cupcakes.

Or choose the Spa Tacular Birthday Party Package, which allows you to celebrate your special day while you and your girlfriends unwind in style! Start with a Mani For Me! Manicure and a "Toe" Tally Perfect Pedicure. Choose between a fruity facial or a Picture Perfect Up Do Style before you hang out in the party pad and enjoy birthday treats.

Want just one service or a different combination? Each girl at the party can purchase the spa services of her choice before hanging out in the party room. They supply all of the party goods after the girls get their spa treatments.

Simply Sassy also provides printable spa invitations and a song list for the birthday girl to pick out her favorite music to be played at her party. Adorable cupcakes and drinks are also included.

Simply Sassy Kids Spa is located at 163 Jonestown Road, Winston Salem, NC 27104-4616, Phone (336) 765-5772.

Guest blogger, Amy Takacs is a work-at-home-Mom to two daughters, Natalie (10) and Claire (7). When not caring for her daughters and 9-wk-old Golden Retriever puppy named Wilma, you can find her at her Macintosh designing brochures, magazines, ads and whatnot for her clients.

"A Home Away From Home"

2010-09-15T05:00:00.008-04:00

By Rachel H

Although you will hope to never stay in this house, if fate determines that you do so, it is a place that will quickly feel like home. I had the pleasure of touring the Ronald McDonald House in Winston-Salem this past weekend. An addition was recently put on the existing house and it is nothing short of gorgeous.

If you are unfamiliar with the Ronald McDonald House, it is a home where out-of-town families can stay if and when they have a sick child who is receiving services in the hospital. It is a place that it filled with so much love, it is amazing. Everyone who works there is so proud of the House and all it offers to families who need support. Why shouldn't they be? With the new addition to the House, it now has 35 bedrooms to offer to these families. There is always a waiting list, but after this expansion, our local RMH can help twice as many families as they have been able to assist in years past.

I wanted to share with you somewhat of a photo album of my visits to the RMH this past weekend. The first photos are from my tour inside the house on Saturday. I toured the house with some extraordinary local bloggers and we were in awe throughout the entire tour. The second set of photos are from the Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies on Sunday. This was open to the public, and as you can see, everyone had a blast celebrating the good our community can do together.

Tour of the Ronald McDonald House ...

Open House and Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies ...

Much of the success of the RMH is due to volunteers. Please consider donating some of your time this year. You cannot imagine the lives you touch through this process. You can also always donate items on the wish list, such as disinfecting wipes, plastic utensils, laundry detergent, cups, word find books, and single serve meals.

For more ways to donate and become a part of this amazing program, visit http://www.rmhwinstonsalem.org/ or visit the blog at http://www.rmhwinstonsalem.blogspot.com/.

Moms' Morning Out!

2010-09-13T16:00:00.005-04:00

By Rachel H

We are excited to help promote the first ever Forsyth Family “Moms’ Morning Out Brunch" event. Dad's are invited, too! This event is brought to you by Forsyth Family Magazine. It is next Wed, Sept 15th at Cimarron Steakhouse in Clemmons from 9am to noon. It’s an excuse for moms and dads to get together, meet new people, and share a meal. Plus, there are great prizes! Dads who come will be entered into a special “dads only” prize drawing.

Cimarron Steakhouse is located at 3260 South Stratford Road in Clemmons, NC. They will provide a special brunch menu exclusively for this event, along with their regular lunch menu. Feel free to bring a friend! We hope to see you there!

Change is Good at the Children's Museum of Winston-Salem!

2010-09-13T05:00:00.008-04:00

By Guest Blogger, Brandy Hall, Director of Development and Marketing

So the story goes ... The Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem is CHANGING! We are very excited about the changes coming our way from new programs and exhibits to new hours and birthday themes.

This is going to be an exciting program year at the museum. The new Alphabet Passport program debuts on September 5th, brought to you by the letter “A.” This is a new, year long program with each week being sponsored by a letter with activities, story times, and more to support the letter. Participants will earn prizes for accumulating multiple letters. Be sure to ask about the program at the Welcome Desk and get your passport!

It is also an exciting time for our exhibits! The Build It! room is undergoing changes and updates with the help of great community partners. BB&T Lighthouse Projects funded repainting of the room and repair of Lego and light tables. (This group also did other things around the museum including building a shoe caddy for the climber in the lobby.) Another BB&T Lighthouse Project funded the Tegu blocks exhibition which will debut at the Museum in the fall. Time Warner Cable funded Imagination Playground blocks which will also debut in the fall.

The most exciting change you will see is the expansion of our Amazing Airways exhibit made possible by Brenner Children’s Hospital, part of Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. Our new exhibit is almost four times larger than the original Circulate It! As kids insert objects, they learn to track the pathways of the powerful air and to divert the air to make the objects come out in certain ways. They jump, run and bounce to catch them high in the air, which also helps them develop their own good circulatory system in their body... and makes them healthy. Stop in late fall to see all these new components.

Do you need somewhere to have an awesome birthday party? We have fun new birthday theme packages. If your little one loves Fancy Nancy, Thomas the Train, Curious George, and of course, our very own Penny and Petey Penguin, we have just the birthday party for you. The museum offers different packages from do it all on your own to sit back and let us handle everything! All guests receive a full day of admission and one hour in the party room. If you would like more information, please call 723-9111 ext. 211.

And lastly, our hours are changing. The new hours are:
1st Monday of the month: Closed*
All other Mondays (members only): 9:00am – 12:00pm*
Tuesday – Friday: 9:00am – 4:00pm
Saturday: 10:00am – 5:00pm
Sunday: 1:00pm – 5:00pm
*The museum will still be open to everyone on WSFCS holidays or workdays that fall on Monday.

We hope to see you soon, where you can come and step into a story!

September Giveaway Winners Announced

2010-09-12T17:33:00.008-04:00

By Katie M

Congratulations to Rachel Brandin, Martha Chamberlin, Andrea Morgan, Carrie Pope and Jessica Potts!!! These are the lucky ladies who each won $20 gift cards to Invitations Only in Winston-Salem! Be sure to check your email for information on how to claim your cards - we'll be sending it soon!

Huge thanks to Invitations Only for this generous give-away offer! If you missed our recent blog on this store, be sure to read up about all the amazing sales they have going on this month.

Happy shopping!

Love, Hate & the 2 Minute Wait

2010-09-12T05:00:00.001-04:00

By Lisa Kuszmar, Charlotte Smarty Pants

Have you ever seen that commercial that starts – one in four women can misread a traditional pregnancy test? Then it proceeds to tell you to purchase the only digital pregnancy test that reads – PREGNANT or NOT PREGNANT. I recall the first time I saw that ad and thought to my self REALLY? That’s ridiculous! I mean how hard is it to read a pink line? You won’t get me to spend $20 on your fancy test. Well I ate those words big time.

Now let me start by saying I have a real love hate relationship with the home pregnancy test. It took me 15 months to conceive and so I have purchased my fair share of ovulation kits, pregnancy tests and contraptions to time my impending pregnancy.

There were so many months that I peed on those silly sticks only to be disappointed. You actually start to dread the next test. You have strange pep talks with yourself in the bathroom. You tell yourself to stay calm and to not over react one way or the other. There is something so defeating and sanity testing about that pink line refusing to show up. You stare and stare and you can actually start to convince yourself that you see something that isn’t there. Well the month that my test actually was positive, I thought I was hallucinating. There is no way that line was there, I shouted for my husband to see if he saw the line. Well he did. It was faint, but it was there. Holy cow; a faint line. Now were we that one in four people who were misreading the test? Should we call family and alert the media? We were torn.

We agreed to tell no one and that day we ran out and purchase that fancy digital test. I need to read the results in English. Well morning number two, we took the test and I saw the world's best word – PREGNANT!!!

Thank goodness for fool proof tests!!

Smarty Mom: Tina Kneisel

2010-09-11T05:00:00.008-04:00

By Rachel H

I get to show off one of my favorite families today, the Kneisels! I met Tina and her husband, Mike, through church and have gotten to know them and their children over the past seven years. Tina is an extraordinary mom and fantastic friend. Tina is always there to help me out in a time of need, and always remembers to ask about members of my family and how they are doing. And the best part about Tina is her sense of humor. She can always make me laugh and also laughs at my nerdy jokes.

Tina and Mike have four children, Katy (13), Kenny (12), Abby (8), and Ella (1). They have lived here for about sixteen years and are both proud WFU graduates. Tina works as a financial analyst and does a superior job of balancing her work and home life. She is currently mentoring a Wake business student and says, "It has made me realize how old I'm getting as she is about to celebrate her 21st and I realized that my oldest daughter is closer to 21 than I am! Ugh! How did that happen!?! Seems like I just graduated a few years ago!!"

Tina loves to travel with or without the kids. They go to NY a lot to visit Mike's family, so Tina claims that "the kids have a pretty good fake NY accent they can slip into - and are pretty street savvy when we go into the city." They have also taken the kids to Chicago, Atlanta, DC, Boston, and many Disney trips.

Let's learn more about today's Smarty Mom ...

What are some tips you have for moms who are trying to balance their career and home life?
Marry well! A husband who helps at home makes all the difference! Keep a good calendar – on paper or electronically – it doesn’t matter – just have it handy at all times. Don’t try to look too far ahead – it can be so overwhelming. Take life one day at a time for all of the crazy maneuverings – it’s much easier to tackle.

How did you go about choosing a child care provider when you returned to work after having each of your children?
It took me about four tries until I found the right one for my first child. Don’t be scared to move your baby/toddler if you’re not comfortable – or if their own needs change. I like a baby-sitter type of environment for my kids when they are babies, then something more like a pre-school as they get older. Ask around and get opinions from others rather than cold-calling. That will save some time & effort. Learn from your friends and co-workers!

Since I consider your hubby to be “Mr. Disney,” what are some of your top tips for others planning to take their first trip to Disney?
We prefer to stay off-site. Driving in is really not a problem, but if I don’t have my own space when I’m tired at night – it’s not pretty! In Orlando, there are so many options for condos and houses that are very close to Disney.
We eat breakfast “at home” to save our $. We try to limit our meals onsite to one a day and a snack – but we like to eat at the themed restaurants & character meals. They are pricey, but the food is good and we think you get more value for your money than at the “curb service” places.
Don’t go in the summer! We stay away from the hot & crowded. The fall is a great time to go – I love all the Halloween festivities!

What are some generic traveling tips you have for families?
We love to travel and aren’t afraid to take the kids anywhere – but usually drive because our family is big. When we go somewhere cultural or historic, we always team it with something kid-friendly. I like stop-overs on a long trip. For example, when we go to NY to visit family, we stop at Hershey Park to play or in DC to visit friends. A family should never go where there is no pool. It’s a great way to wear out the kids!

What are some of your best discipline strategies for a larger family?
It doesn’t matter your age, respect and attitude are important. Consistency is key – whether with teens or toddlers.

With a small toddler and a teen, we want to know …which one is more difficult to raise?!?!?
I had always thought that when people with older kids said, “you just wait”, they had forgotten how exhausting it is having small children. Now that I have both, I see that they are both challenging but in different ways. Right now, I think teens are harder because we are learning as we go, while we know what is coming and how to handle our little one. I think the teens are more emotionally draining, while the babies are more physically.

What is the smartiest way you save money?
Not good at that one!

What is your favorite family activity?
We love to play games. Our new favorite this summer is Bananagrams. I can’t get enough of it! We have a new screened-in porch and it is a favorite place to hang out & play! We also love to go to Wake Forest football games and tailgate!

Favorite “me-time” activity?
A Starbucks in my hand while someone is giving me a pedicure…aaah! Top it off with a People magazine and you’ve got a little slice of Tina Heaven!

Favorite place to eat dinner as a family?
La Caretta or Coppola’s

Favorite date night spot?
Difference of opinion there – but I love Milner’s and Bonefish.

Favorite book you have read?
I don’t have a favorite because I read way too many to keep track of, but I recently read The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and loved it!

Best place to eat lunch with the kids?
I like Qdoba and they have a lot of specials that come via e-mail.

Favorite place to shop for children’s clothes?
Target!! If they need something and I can get it while running my other errands – that’s a winner!

What is the best birthday party you have attended?
So many good ones!! Oh you mean for my kids…loved a petting zoo brought to the Smith’s house several years ago.

What is your favorite mom’s must have item for around the house?
I love Dream Dinners! I’ve done it every month since my youngest was born. It’s the perfect answer to our dinner issues! I like the variety and the quick clean-up. My oldest daughter goes there with me and helps me make the meals. We typically make about 6-7/month.

Favorite or most helpful blog you have read on Triad Smarty Pants thus far?
Where to begin……certainly one of Rachel’s!! :)

Best thing about raising a family in the Triad?
The close-knit feeling of community. I love that we run into our friends, teachers, neighbors, etc. every time we go somewhere. (well…maybe “love” is a strong word if it’s early and I’m wearing no make-up!)

I could not live without my...
Husband (lame answer, but he does make it all worthwhile!)

Thank you for all of your answers today, Tina! They definitely made me smile and I hope our readers enjoyed reading them as much as I did! :)

Don’t Miss This Sale at Evy’s!!

2010-09-10T05:00:00.011-04:00

By Katie M

After you drop the kids at school, head over to Evy’s at either location (Greensboro or Kernersville) and enjoy 60% off select items as part of this Smarty Sponsor's big “Moving Sale.” You may have read about this sale in our newsletter last week, but we thought we’d mention it again because we don’t want you to miss out! Between now and the end of October, Evy’s is celebrating its upcoming move in GSO - from its Battleground location to New Garden Road/Bryan Blvd at Jefferson Village Shopping Center near Fresh Market. So hurry in and start stocking up – for the holidays or just for yourself!

It’s no secret that we love us some Evy’s! Both Rachel and I have blogged about this one-of-a-kind gift store in the past. Not only is it fun for moms (and kids) to shop there, but it truly has everything imaginable in store: from flags, collegiate memorabilia (perfect for those starting college this fall!), home décor, wind chimes, lawn and garden décor, pet toys, figurines, Disney collectibles, garden accessories, wine accessories, seasonal decorations, corporate gift items, flip flops, jewelry, mugs, flowers,yard art, lamps and so much more!

Don't forget that Evy's is also open on Sundays, so if you get too swamped during the week, you can stop by on Sundays for a pick-me-up before the work week starts once again!

Now here's something you can do to help this local business continue to grow: Vote for Evy's as your favorite gift shop with Go Triad's Readers' Choice Awards. It's simple to do, takes two seconds, and it means the world to Evy's to have your support.

To vote for Evy's please follow these steps:
1.) Visit http://gotriad.news-record.com/readerschoice/ballot
(Click on Create New Account if you don't already have one with News-Record)
2.) Plug in your info and e-mail address to pre-register
3.) Go to the e-mail account used for pre-registration and click on the link sent by N & R to validate your e-mail address. After validation, that takes you to the password page.
4.) Plug in a password then hit Next
5.) Once Ballot is fully shown scroll down to the Paragraph with Title: "Shopping & Services," click on Vote button
6.) Type in Evys Gifts
7.) After 20 categories scroll down and click Save, then you can see the results.

All voters must be residents of North Carolina and Virginia.

And after you shop Evy's Moving Sale, you can continue to be in-the-know with product news, specials and offers by signing up for Evy's monthly newsletter here. Evy’s is also on Facebook –become a fan and get sneak peeks to Evy’s weekly sales and newly arriving items.

Can't wait to see you at Evy's, Smarties!

Reminder: Don't forget to register for our September giveaway. You could be one of FIVE lucky readers to win a $20 gift card from Invitations Only. Just click here to register. Contest will end at noon TODAY, September 10. Good luck!

Happy Birthday Jen B

2010-09-10T04:59:00.007-04:00

By Katie M

I could not let this day pass without giving a shout out to a dear friend who was taken from us all way too early: Jen B, co-founder of Charlotte Smarty Pants. Today is her birthday and she would be 39-years-old. If you've been a loyal TSP reader from day one then you are familar with this tragic story. Jen B created Charlotte Smarty Pants three years ago and passed away just three months after the site launched. She was 36 years-old, a wife of only four years, a mom to her 2 1/2-year-old daughter, and she died suddenly from non-smoking lung cancer.

Jen B was one of the first girls I met in Charlotte in 1994, and she will always hold a special place in my heart. Jen died without ever knowing she had lung cancer (we all say that was divine intervention) and unfortunately her cancer advanced too quickly for her to recognize any symptoms. As much as this is a tribute to Jen B, I also want this to be a calling to moms everywhere to be vigilant of your own health.

Although I blogged about this in February 2009, I want to reiterate my thoughts about the importance of us moms making our own health a priority. While a primary physician may not have helped Jen B because her cancer was so advanced, perhaps this blog will serve as a reminder and help those who might be able to be helped.

You always hear of moms who put their health second to children and husbands. Well, it’s time we stop doing that. We should never be too busy or apathetic to take care of ourselves. Enough cannot be said about the importance of having a primary care physician. Find a doctor and talk to him or her about getting regular check-ups (and not JUST the annual check up from your gynecologist either!).

I know for years I was guilty of never having a primary care physician. I always kept annual appointments with my gynecologist, but if I ever became sick enough to need a primary doctor, I either had to scramble to find a doctor (and usually wait days to get an appointment) or check in at an Urgent Care clinic. Our children have primary care doctors and we should too.

Last September, we also ran a great blog by Chrissy McCullough, Physical Therapist at Lyndhurst Gynecologic Associates, about how we all need to slow down as moms and take time for ourselves. Take another read of this blog - it has fantastic tips!

So, let's use this blog be a call-out for other primary care recommendations. Who do you see and why do you recommend him or her? Please offer suggestions in our comment section below for readers in all areas of the Triad - Greensboro, High Point and other communities.

I recommend my primary care physician: Dr. Ted Toberg with Premier Medical Associates (affiliated with Forsyth Medical Center) on Brookview Hills Blvd (off Hanes Mill Blvd) in Winston-Salem.

Who do you recommend?

Life is a precious gift. Let's help each other to be vigilant of our health. And big hugs to all of you today!

Smarty Alert: New Balance Sale!

2010-09-09T20:00:00.005-04:00

By Rachel H

If you have not stopped by New Balance Winston-Salem recently, now is a great time to go! Right now you will find 30% off select kids' styles as well as plenty of other markdowns in the store! These discounts are for in-stock items only, so get there before the size you need is gone!

Happy Shoe Shopping!

Smarty Sponsor: Davie Allergy & Asthma Clinic

2010-09-09T05:00:00.001-04:00

By Dr. Richard Herring, Davie Allergy & Asthma Clinic

When we think of fall, we think of back to school, football games, spending time outdoors in cool weather, playing in the leaves. But all of this can be interrupted if you or your child is one of over 35 million Americans who suffer from seasonal allergies or asthma. Hay fever symptoms of runny nose, congestion, and itchiness can make one miserable, while asthma can be a significant limiting factor in everyday activities. Before you decide to stay indoors during one the most difficult allergy seasons, there are some important steps you can take to pinpoint specific triggers and minimize discomfort.

The main culprits during the fall are ragweed, other weed pollens, multiple molds, and dust mites (the most common allergy worldwide). Ragweed is a common allergy that usually appears from the time school starts until the first hard frost, or around Thanksgiving. It can be difficult to avoid since pollen grains have been known to be carried well over 300 miles by the wind. Other weeds pollinate during the fall and in late summer. Outdoor molds increase in fallen leaves and vegetation in the fall and can be worse after an especially rainy summer. Dust mites in our homes are typically a year round allergen, but their numbers can peak during the fall in our climate. In a survey of U.S. homes, approximately one-quarter had levels of dust mite allergens present at a level high enough to trigger asthma symptoms. Fortunately for allergy sufferers, dust mite numbers could at least decrease in the winter when the humidity naturally decreases, since they rely on higher humidity to survive. Cat and dog dander can also add to the overall severity of allergies and asthma throughout the year.

Testing for specific allergies is a first step in identifying triggers of asthma and hay fever. About 23 million people, including almost 7 million children, have asthma. About 70-80% of asthmatics also have allergies which can play a role in worsening their lung function. Asthma may present as shortness of breath, difficulty with exertion, or chronic cough which can often worsen at night. These are common signs for kids. Skin testing by an allergist is still the best method of testing since allergy blood tests alone can miss specific allergies. Knowledge of specific triggers allows one to focus on appropriate avoidance measures. One may then consider discussing with their physician whether only seasonal use of allergy and asthma medications would be safe. This can help reduce medication exposure and save money.

Treatment first consists of avoidance. It sounds difficult to avoid pollens but some recommendations include closing your windows on humid and windy days when pollen counts are higher, showering after being outdoors to wash away pollen that has collected on your skin and hair, and wearing a facemask when working outdoors to limit the amount of pollen you inhale. This is also helpful to avoid mold spore exposure. Cats and dogs are common causes of allergies but can also bring in pollen from outdoors. If your pet does not mind getting rinsed off, this might help reduce exposure on high pollen days. Rinsing will also help wash away some of your pet’s natural dander. There are also measures that can be taken to minimize dust mite exposure, especially in areas where we sleep.

Taking non-sedating antihistamines such as Claritin or Zyrtec may help in addition to topical nasal steroid sprays such as Flonase or Nasonex which require a prescription. There are multiple newer medications of these types available. Prescription eye drops can treat itchy eyes. Some asthmatics might benefit from inhaled steroids and other medications such as Singulair, which can also help reduce nasal symptoms. These medications reduce inflammation with minimal to no absorption of steroid.

Another form of therapy is individualized immunotherapy, which is a longer term solution over the course of about 5 years, but is effective for 85% of those who undergo treatment. This involves injections of very small but increasing amounts of the correct allergens over time and it differs for each individual. This approach actually changes the immune system so that allergic reactions become less severe or do not occur at all. One can expect to benefit for more than 10 years after this form of therapy.

Allergies and asthma can have a huge impact on quality of life. Of note, 13 million school days are missed each year due to asthma. So getting tested is beneficial since it allows for avoidance of specific allergy triggers and leads to the most appropriate treatment. It can be the first step to making the most of this fall and also this spring, and to feeling better and living better.

Dr. Richard Herring is the head doctor at Davie Allergy & Asthma Clinic. The office is located at 108 Dornach Way (Suite 200) in Advance (near Tanglewood Park). Phone: (336) 998-3833. Its Allergy Shot Hours are Monday - Friday from 8:10AM - 4:30PM. Regular Office Hours are Monday - Friday 8:10AM - 12:00PM & 1:00PM - 4:40PM.

Do you have a question for Dr. Herring about allergies? If so, post your question below in the comment section and he'll reply with an answer!

Reminder: Don't forget to register for our September giveaway. You could be one of FIVE lucky readers to win a $20 gift card from Invitations Only. Just click here to register. Contest will end at noon on Friday, September 10. Good luck!

Smarty Alert: Win a Photo Session (worth $595) with Andrea Halsey Photography!!

2010-09-08T16:00:00.017-04:00

By Katie M

Ohmygoodness, this is an incredible opportunity! One of our most favorite photographers, Andrea Halsey, is giving away a free Petite Digital Session for October 9th (a $595 value!!!) which includes all digital files for reprints 5x7 and smaller. Think holiday photos! Andrea is running this promotion exclusively through her Facebook Page, so if you are not a Facebook user, you might want to reconsider starting today!

Here's all you have to do to register...

First, join Andrea's Facebook Page. Then, post on your personal Facebook wall and on Andrea Halsey's Facebook Fan Page wall about why you would love to win a Petite Session with Andrea Halsey Photography! You must post on both to be entered into the drawing. The winner will be drawn on Saturday, September 18th for the October 9th Petite Session. One entry per person. The winner will be chosen by Andrea's daughter in a random drawing!

Plus, if you purchase a petite session during the giveaway, Andrea will include a free set of (25) 5x7 Flat Holiday Cards with your favorite photo when you mention Triad Smarty Pants. If you purchase a petite session during the giveaway and you happen to win, Andrea will credit your payment for anything you like!

More information and details about Petite Sessions can be found here.

To schedule sessions, contact Andrea at 336-280-4625.

Good luck!

Smarty Party Idea: SciWorks!

2010-09-08T05:00:00.003-04:00

By Katie M

Where else can you book a birthday party in the Triad that lets you get face-to-face with river otters, travel the solar system, dance on a gigantic floor piano, and walk inside a 20 ft. tree? At SciWorks, of course! You are sure to please everyone at this hands-on discovery museum in Winston-Salem. Not only is it a unique venue for a party but it also offers one of the best party values in the Triad.

What I love most about parties with Smarty Sponsor SciWorks is that kids will never run out of things to do. Unlike some party venues that focus on one or two activities for the entire party, SciWorks has more things to do than you can count in its 25,000 sq. ft. facility which includes museum exhibits, a 15-acre environmental park, and a planetarium show.

Intrigued? Then keep reading to find out how to book the most interactive party in town!

For anyone with an appreciation for science, SciWorks has it all. And what child isn’t into learning something new? From the moment you walk in the door, you are engrossed in educational and recreational special exhibits. The museum always features certain exhibits (Foucault Pendulum, NC’s Mountains to Sea, PhysicsWorks, SoundWorks, HealthWorks, BioWorks, and KidsWorks), along with a 50 ft. dome planetarium and environmental park with nature trails. Here you’ll discover habitats for river otters, deer and water fowl, barnyard animals such as goats, sheep, cows, donkeys, and a miniature horse. Plus, the museum is always bringing in new traveling exhibits that never fail to amaze.

When you book a party at SciWorks, you and your guests will get your own party room for 1 ½ hours (between the hours of 11 am and 4:30 pm) for just $100, and members receive a 20% discount. SciWorks also offers discounted admission fees for your guests:

Under age 2 Free
Age 2-5 $4
Age 6-19 and seniors (62+) $6
Adults $8
Members Free
(Remind your guests to bring their membership cards if they have them, and they are free!)

The party host will also receive one free adult admission for every five children attending the party. The birthday child and up to four grandparents also receive free admission.

And there is no limit on how many children you invite to the party. Just ask for the special group rate when booking your party!

Before and after the party, guests will have access to museum exhibits, the environmental park, and one planetarium show. The host is asked to provide a cake and paper goods.

Even if you’re not booking a party, SciWorks is a great place to visit! Rates are reasonable, and the museum is convenient from any location in the Triad. Membership cards are always available, and they come with discounts, member-only information and invites, and free or reduced admission to more than 200 science centers worldwide!

To book your party, please contact Tiffany Weisner at 714-7105 or tweisner@sciworks.org.

Be prepared to be amazed, Smarties! And we hope to see you there!

Reminder: Don't forget to register for our September giveaway. You could be one of FIVE lucky readers to win a $20 gift card from Invitations Only. Just click here to register. Contest will end at noon on Friday, September 10. Good luck!

OMG – He is Talking about ME!

2010-09-07T05:00:00.005-04:00

By Rachel H

So the other week I was watching Big Brother (yes, Big Brother – don’t hate, don’t judge) and one of my favorite players was talking to the camera in the Diary Room. Ragan is his name and he is hilarious! Anyway, he was talking about an event that happened in the Big Brother House and exclaimed, “I was crying like a 40-year-old woman watching Oprah!” I started laughing and then suddenly stopped. Silence. Holy cow. He is talking about ME! I am the 40-year-old woman who cries watching Oprah!

Granted, I am a few years shy of being forty, and I may not be crying over Oprah, but I will admit to many a tear over a lame commercial, Lifetime Movie, Extreme Home Makeover, or even Nanny McPhee. When did this happen? When did I turn into this woman? Wasn’t it just yesterday when I was 21 and dancing on the bar at “Have A Nice Day Café” in Charlotte without a care in the world? Now I cry when I see my children holding hands as they walk out of school. I cry when I see someone help an old man who they don’t know.

But, as I thought about this and the fact that I have seemed to race through the past fifteen years of my life, I realized, I am pretty proud to be the mom and woman that I am. I like my life when I get to put on my pajamas at 8pm and not think twice about it. I like the fact that snuggling in bed with my family can be a highlight of my day. And I like that I am certainly in touch with my emotions. So after initially hearing Ragan’s comment and feeling like a washed up old hag, I can now say to myself, “Yes, I AM that almost forty-year-old woman who cries watching Oprah! And I am damn proud of it, too!”

Reminder: Don't forget to register for our September giveaway. You could be one of FIVE lucky readers to win a $20 gift card from Invitations Only. Just click here to register. Contest will end at noon on Friday, September 10. Good luck!

Heartstrings Walk to Remember

2010-09-06T05:00:00.003-04:00

By Rachel H

Did you know that infant loss touches the lives of more than one out of every four pregnant women? If you have not heard of Heartstrings, be sure to visit their website at www.heartstringssupport.org. Heartstrings Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support offers group and one-to-one peer support and encouragement to families who have lost a baby from conception to one year of age.

We would like to invite you to join over 500 families for A Walk to Remember on October 9, 2010. Heartstrings is hosting its 6th Annual A Walk to Remember for Bereaved Parents Across the Triad. The Walk will take place at Triad Park in Kernersville, N.C. Bereaved parents, their friends and caregivers whose lives have been touched by the tragic loss of a baby as a result of a pregnancy loss, stillbirth or newborn death will come together to publicly remember their babies and to spread awareness.

The event starts at 9:15 a.m. on October 9, 2010. There will be onsite registration as well as check-in for those preregistered. A Time of Remembrance follows at 10:00 a.m. The service includes keynote speaker Tracey Holyfield, a bereaved parent and founder of Heartstrings. The service concludes with a special ceremony where each family receives an ornament personalized with their baby’s name. The 1.5-mile walk will begin at 11 a.m.

If you, or someone you know would like to participate, you may register online at www.heartstringssupport.org. The registration fee is $25 for couples, $15 for individuals and $7 for children. The fee includes a Time of Remembrance program, a t-shirt and participation in the Walk. Teams are also welcome.

Along with the support and comfort extended to those participating, a goal of the Walk is to raise proceeds which will help support Heartstrings Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support.

President Ronald Reagan decreed October as National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month in 1988. October 15 is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day. One in four pregnancies ends in a loss and another 46 babies die every day in the United States within the first 28 days of life from prematurity, congenital abnormalities, unknown causes or accidental death. You can help spread the word about local and national resources of hope and encouragement for bereaved parents.

If you have questions, or would like more information, please call Mary Easton at 336-335-9931.

Reminder: Don't forget to register for our September giveaway. You could be one of FIVE lucky readers to win a $20 gift card from Invitations Only. Just click here to register. Contest will end at noon on Friday, September 10. Good luck!

Finding the Perfect Home for your Furry Friends

2010-09-05T05:00:00.004-04:00

Brought to you by Prudential Carolinas Realty

Pets are more than just animals. People love their pets like family and many adapt their homes and lifestyle to their furry family members. If you consider yourself a “pet parent”, then it won’t come as a surprise, that on choosing your next home, you will be searching for the best home for your best friend.

When you're planning a home for both you and your pets, consider their particular needs. Animals want the same things that humans do. They want companionship and to be kept clean and secure. They also want their personal space. Think about whether you're putting your door-dashing dog on a high-traffic street. Will your protective pup go postal on guests? How can you make your multi-story home comfortable for your elderly dog?

So what does it take for a home to qualify as pet-friendly?

1. Make a list - Before you go shopping for a pet-friendly house, make a list of things your pet likes and what they will destroy. For instance, cat owners may find their pets ripping up the carpet in their home. To avoid replacing your carpet, you might want to look for a home with wood floors. Also, if you have a large or active dog, you may need a home with a large fenced in yard or bigger space.

2. Survey the home’s layout - The home’s layout might be hard on your pet. If you have an older animal who has a hard time climbing stairs, a home for sale with one story would be better than a two-story home. Low windows or window ledges are perfect for cats, as well as an out of sight place to store a litter box.

3. Check with the HOA rules/regulations - The Home Owner Association may not allow pets, and those that do allow them usually have some restrictions. Make sure to check before purchasing a home or you might get stuck with hefty fines and a hard choice to make.

4. Explore the neighborhoods - A pet friendly neighborhood is the best place for you and your best friend. Look around the neighborhood and see if the neighbors are walking their dogs or have cats sleeping in windows.

If you have any additional advice on this topic, please share below!

And Smarties, don't forget to register for our September giveaway with Invitations Only. You could be one of FIVE lucky readers to win a $20 gift card. Just click here to take a short survey, and we'll announce the five winners after Noon on Friday, September 10. Good luck!

Smarty Mom: Valerie Glass

2010-09-04T05:00:00.024-04:00

By Katie M

Today's Smarty Mom was "mominated" by a friend of mine, Carrie S, who wrote, "I have a friend who would be a perfect Smarty Mom. Her name is Valerie Glass. She is a stay-at-home mom who volunteers with a crisis assistance organization in Lewisville, volunteers at her church and her boys' schools, is going back to school to get her master's and plans all kinds of fun activities to keep her boys busy during the day. If that is not enough, she is also working to start a local chapter of Women of Vision, a Christian organization dedicated to giving back to the community and the world. I am exhausted just typing this list. She is a fabulous mom and a great friend and I think she would be a perfect Smarty Mom."

Well, we thought so too, and I'm excited to introduce you all to Valerie today!

Valerie and her husband Casey have three boys: Coulson (6), Charlie (4) and Carter (5 months). She grew up in High Point, attended college in central PA and then a few years after college she moved back to the Triad (Winston-Salem), then to Charlotte for a brief stint, and has called Lewisville home for two years. Valerie is a stay-at-home mom who is adding "part-time student" to her title as she works to earn her master's in conflict resolution. And when she can find the time, she enjoys knitting, crocheting, growing her garden, competing in triathlons, and volunteering.

I'm intrigued about your degree in conflict resolution. Tell us more about what this degree entails.
What I love about going back to school several years after college is that I get to explore new answers to the great question, "What do I want to be when I grow up?" And Conflict Resolution is one of those broad, multi-disciplinary fields that can benefit any profession, so I still have lots of paths to explore and I might change my mind a couple times along the way. I have a passion for peace and I am really interested in programs that educate and encourage others to work out their issues, develop empathy for each other and investigate solutions with long term, lasting benefits for all involved. I don't what jobs will be available when I'm finished, but I would love to work in the schools or with community groups developing conflict resolution curriculum and peer mediation programs for our youth.

Carrie mentioned that you were part of a ministry with World Vision called Women of Vision, and that you are working with a group of women here in the Triad to consider starting a chapter here. Tell us more about World Vision and your plans.
More than 24,000 children under the age of 5 die every day from preventable causes related to poverty, disease and hunger. Throughout the world, poverty affects women and children disproportionately with lower literacy rates, less access to education, poor nutrition as well as oppression and discrimination. Women of Vision is a group of women who find this unacceptable and are determined to do something about it through advocacy, education and supporting development projects.

Women of Vision is a ministry through World Vision, a Christian humanitarian development organization that works in over 100 countries. Their goal is to help struggling communities around the world to develop lasting self-sufficiency. First they make sure that basic needs are being met by increasing access to clean water and nutrition. Then they work with the community to help them overcome barriers to developing sustainable agriculture, encouraging education and promoting economic development. Women of Vision support World Vision projects around the world, as well as local projects in our own communities. Basically it's a partnership of women who really want to serve and grow in Christ, and we know that together as a group we can make a stronger impact than alone.

When I lived in Charlotte, I attended a weekly Bible study sponsored by the Charlotte chapter of Women of Vision that explored the root causes of poverty and examined what the Bible had to say about it. The study really challenged my understanding of poverty and how Christians should respond. After the Bible study was complete, I decided to partner with Women of Vision. The group in Charlotte meets together monthly to explore issues surrounding poverty and to learn about local programs that are addressing the needs in their own community. They raise money to support projects in Ethiopia, Guatemala and West Virginia, as well as a local soup kitchen in Charlotte. Several of the women also volunteer at the soup kitchen regularly. They also promote child sponsorship (World Vision's main source of funding for their projects), send mission teams to their projects in Ethiopia, Guatemala and West Virginia, and participate in advocacy projects to promote the issues that affect impoverished women and children.

Here in the Triad, we haven't officially started a chapter yet, but we are trying to gather together regularly to learn from guest speakers about issues surrounding poverty and oppression and also to get involved by serving the community in various ways. We also hope to start a Bible Study group soon.

If someone reading this wants to participate, how can they contact you?
We welcome anyone who is passionate about growing in Christ and serving others, so if any of you TSP readers are interested, you can email us at womenofvisiontriad@gmail.com and ask to be added to our newsletter.

You are also working with one of your friends to start a diaper bank to supply diapers to local health departments and community aid organizations through "diaper drives." What else can you tell us about this project?
This is another project that is just getting started. My friend works for the health department in a nearby county and she was shocked to discover that when families can't afford diapers, they will often line a diaper with paper towels so they can re-use the diaper or the baby will stay in the same wet diaper all day long. Obviously this is a basic health concern, but she was unable to find local resources that could provide diapers. Food stamps and WIC don't provide for the purchase of diapers. After some internet research, she realized that a diaper bank is the solution, but she also discovered that there aren't any diaper banks in NC. So she is looking into starting one. We are still doing some background research to determine the size of the need in the area and check out other resources, but we hope to do some diaper drives this fall at local preschools and to have some collection boxes at some grocery stores. If any TSP readers want to help organize a diaper drive at their school or preschool, please let me know! You can learn more at www.piedmontdiaperbank.com.

Great info, Valerie. Now let's move on to some lighter topics...

Favorite place to get a good deal on kids clothes?
Consignment Sales, Target and Kohls

Favorite place to splurge on kids clothes?
I have 3 boys - splurging on clothes? I might as well flush the money down the toilet. My 6 year-old will refuse to wear it, my 4 year-old would stain it in the first 10 minutes and the baby would spit up on it and then grow out of it. (I'm a very practical person.) But I guess every now and then we want something a little nicer. I like The Children's Place. And they have pretty good sales, so it doesn't always have to be a big splurge.

What is your favorite family activity?
Legos. My boys could play with Legos all day long and it's something my husband and I also enjoy, so it keeps everyone happy. We also love to play the Lego video games together. If you're not familiar with the Lego video games, it's worth checking out. The different boards in the video game are all designed from Lego blocks and the characters are little Lego people and they can do some funny stuff. Our family favorite is Lego Star Wars.

Best place to eat lunch and/or dinner with the kids?
Chick-fil-A and Jason's Deli

Favorite date place?
We love the classic dinner-and-a-movie date because we are pretty boring people. But when we want to take it up a notch, we go to see one of the drama productions at WFU. The tickets are inexpensive and the plays are always interesting.

Funniest things your kids have ever said?
I keep a list of their great sayings and it's so hard to choose, but here are some that provide some insight into how their little boy minds think. When my oldest was 4 1/2 years old, here's some advice he gave his 2 year-old brother about swinging on a tire swing: "You have to hold on real tight. You can't let go. If you let go, you'll fall through and knock your eye out. And your knocked out eye will be all yucky and then you'll die!" And when my middle child was 2 1/2 years old, I asked him, "What are you going to do today?" His answer - "I'm gonna get my booger and put it on my finger," (holds up pointer finger) "and put it here" (wipes finger on his shirt)

Favorite park in the Triad?
City Lake Park in Jamestown. I live on the other side of Winston-Salem, so I don't get there too often, but it has an awesome playground, a short train ride and lots of other activities. I remember going there with my mom when I was a kid, so it also holds some fond memories for me.

Mini-van or SUV?
Mini-van - I love automatic doors!

Best thing about raising a family in the Triad?
We have a lot of great opportunities for kids like the larger cities (museums, zoos, sports, etc.) but without all the huge crowds and traffic.

Best mom secret YOUR mom has shared with you?
Boys will be boys. (She also had 3 boys, before she had me)

Best birthday party you have attended?
My 6 year-old's most recent birthday party was at Tiger Kim's Taekwondo and it was pretty awesome. First the kids got a quick lesson in respect and self control before letting loose with a great energetic workout. But my son would probably say that his friend's Star Wars birthday party was the best ever. Darth Vader came and gave everyone jedi training with inflatable light sabers.

Smartiest way you stay organized?
LOL! My friends can attest that organization is not my strong suit, so you don't want me giving any advice on that topic.

Who is your hero?
My mom and dad have been awesome examples for me.

I could not live without my... FRIENDS! I have some of the greatest friends ever. The birth of my third son 5 months ago help me fully appreciate how wonderful they are and how much I need them. My friends brought meals to me after the baby was born, 2-3 meals a week for 2 months. And they help with all the little things that just make the day smoother, like watching one kid while I take another to the bathroom, or helping with a stroller, or being that third hand that I need while I'm nursing or holding the baby. And most importantly, they are there to listen to my gripes and frustrations and quietly remind me of the important things in life. Thanks guys, you're awesome!

And thank you, Valerie, for giving us this great interview. I am still laughing at your son's funniest comments above! Good luck with the pursuit of your master's and with all your endeavors. You are certainly an inspiration!

And Smarties, don't forget to register for our September giveaway with Invitations Only. You could be one of FIVE lucky readers to win a $20 gift card. Just click here to take a short survey, and we'll announce the five winners after Noon on Friday, September 10. Good luck!

Smarty Party Idea: Soccer Tots

2010-09-03T05:00:00.007-04:00

By Guest Blogger Laura Long

Each year, as parents, we worry about what are we going to do for this year’s birthday party, and when it’s in the middle of summer there are only so many pool parties one child can have. This year we wanted to do something different. I was searching on Triad Smarty Pants, and there it was under birthday ideas, “Soccer Tots Birthday Party”. Mercer, our daughter, had just finished Kiddie-Kickers at the YMCA and loved it. In fact, all she talked about was soccer and Toy Story 3. So, I made the call.

They were AMAZING!!! For starters, the facility is indoors, which was perfect because Mercer’s birthday is always on the hottest day of the year. You may choose the location from Winston-Salem Soccerplex, Proehlific Park and Greensboro Sportsplex. Our party was held at the Soccerplex, which had three different plans to choose from. The plan we choose included drinks, pizza, party room, cupcakes, and a Party Coach to go on the fields with the kids.

When we arrived, Andy, our party coach, took us back to the party field and room. The party area was in a separate part of the building, so we had it all to ourselves. The party room looked onto the field and had a large TV with DVD player. I was able to play Toy Story for the kids who didn’t want to play soccer. All we brought were the balloons, dinnerware, tablecloths, and goodie bags.

Once the kids arrived, the real fun began. Andy immediately had all the kids on the field ready to play. They first warmed up with exercises that included jumping jacks, stretching, and running in place. The games he had them play were very age appropriate. There were soccer balls for all the kids to play with and balloons, too.

They raced, shot the ball in the goal, played red light - green light, and parent play time. That’s right, we got to play, too. Mercer and the kids loved having us out there with them. The games segment with Andy lasted a little over an hour.
We then had time for pizza and cupcakes. I told the party coordinator that Mercer loved Toy Story, so when we opened the cupcakes the theme was Toy Story 3, and they were fabulous… Yum Yum Goods baked the yummy little treats and they were REALLY DELICIOUS…

In the end, the kids and adults stayed and played a little longer before heading home. Andy was wonderful and had everyone up and going, he got the kids to laugh, run, and play. They made sure we had everything we needed and checked on us several times during the party. They also offered all the parents the chance to bring their child back to try one of their soccer leagues, which start at learning the skills to playing on teams. It was a wonderful day. The true test of whether the party was good came at the end when I asked Mercer if she had fun. She did!!!! SUCCESS!
THANK YOU Soccer Tots…

For more info on planning a party, call Bryn Heinicke at 336-375-7728 or visit the website here.

And Smarties, don't forget to register for our September giveaway with Invitations Only. You could be one of FIVE lucky readers to win a $20 gift card. Just click here to take a short survey, and we'll announce the five winners after Noon on Friday, September 10. Good luck!

September Giveaway: Five $20 Gift Cards to Invitations Only!

2010-09-02T05:00:00.030-04:00

By Katie M

Baby announcements, party invitations, holiday cards, personalized note cards - oh my! You can find it all - including amazing designs and prices - at Invitations Only, our favorite little gift and stationery store. With school back in session and the holidays just around the corner, not to mention milestones and celebrations that happen every day all year round, it's always a great time to shop here.

And now you have the perfect excuse. Smarty Sponsor Invitations Only is giving away FIVE $20 gift cards to five loyal TSP readers as a boost to your shopping spree. All you have to do is complete a short survey. All the details on registering are found at the end of this blog. Good luck, Smarties!

You may remember my blog about this Winston-Salem-based treasure chest. Well, I just can't say enough good things about this store. Not only does it have the cutest and largest selection of personalized cards (by top name vendors) and gifts, but the staff is truly one of the nicest, most accommodating team around. I feel like I'm always looking for a reason to pop in, and once I'm in, it's hard for me to leave. My mind starts racing for future gifts I want to buy and I always find something - that perfect purchase - every time I visit.

Although we won't announce the five winners until Friday, September 10, you need to know about some incredible deals happening now through the end of September at Invitations Only. Starting next week is its "Get Ready for Fall" blow-out sale. Every day, Invitations Only will announce a new holiday special to help you plan for the perfect holiday cards and gifts.

Here are some of the deals you you can expect this month:

• Free printing on all in-stock holiday photo & greeting cards

• 15% OFF Holiday Photo and Digital Cards by Boatman Geller

• FREE return address on Holiday invites, photo cards and greeting cards (black ink only) by Inkwell/Chatsworth Collections

• 10% OFF Holiday photo cards and greeting cards by Crane

• FREE printed labels when you order 75+ Holiday cards – Prints Charming

• 10% OFF Holiday Photo and Greeting Cards by William Arthur

Also exclusive to Invitations Only: Put a $50 down payment on your holiday photo or greeting card order next week and use ANY Holiday Special throughout the season regardless of expiration date! They will honor them ALL! Did I not say this store was amazing?

And here's a sneak peak at some of Invitations Only's every day specials:

• Save on Memo lists and Tablets $19.95 and Super Slabs $23.95 by Embossed Graphics

• 50 selected personalized notes/ cards with liners for $99 and receive a
$10 Gift Certificate with every $100 you spend on personalized stationery by Crane

• Personalized Note Pads $24.00 a set by Periwinkle Press

• 20% OFF entire wedding order when you order 100 pieces+ by Embossed Graphics

• 40% OFF birth announcements, thank-you’s, and more from keepsakes and memories album by Embossed Graphics

• 25 FREE personalized pieces of each wedding item when you purchase 75+ by William Arthur

• FREE engraving plates on stationery- includes name, monogram, and return address plates by Arzberger.

Invitations Only has also recently added Vietri, along with several other lines. New merchandise arrives daily, and that's why they are having this blow-out sale (always looking to make room for more)!

Invitations Only is located at 3301 Healy Drive in Winston-Salem. You can visit their newly designed web site here, and their Facebook fan page here (become a fan today to stay up-to-date on all these great specials). Its phone number is 336-768-9909, and they are open from 9 am - 4 pm Monday - Friday, Saturday by appointment.

You can't afford NOT to register for this giveaway! Just click here to take a short survey, and we'll announce the five winners after Noon on Friday, September 10.

Happy shopping!

September Family Events

2010-09-01T05:00:00.051-04:00

By Katie M

Welcome to September! Summer may be officially over in a few weeks, but don't fret - there are a TON of fantastic events coming up! Fall is my favorite season of the year so I am particularly psyched for the all the exciting changes to come - school days, cooler weather, the colors of autumn, football, approaching holidays, and festivals and outdoor music! Our friends at Prudential Carolinas have helped us come up with this great list of fall family events. So, get out and enjoy the change of seasons, Smarties!

A don't forget about these on-going deals too:

Local Consignment Sales
Visit our favorite consigning website, http://consignmentmommies.com/ to find all the sales near you!

Kids Eat Free

Chick-fil-A Family Nights

Wednesday, September 1

Tunes at Noon
Wednesday, September 1, 2010, 12 – 1:30pm
Center City Park, 200 North Elm Street, Greensboro, NC
Center City Park provides free live music during lunchtime. Bring your lunch and kick back and relax to some cool tunes with some of the Triad's best artists.

ArtQuest Family Night
Wednesday, September 1, 2010, 5 – 7pm
ArtQuest, Green Hill Center for N.C. Art, 200 N. Davie St., GSO.
Free admission for the whole family to ArtQuest to explore the hands-on art studio. 5

Greensboro Grasshoppers
7 pm Home Game. See web site for details.

Thursday, September 2

Wake Forest Football vs. Presbyterian
Thursday, September 2, 2010, 6:30pm
Winston-Salem, NC

Greensboro Grasshoppers
7 pm Home Game. See web site for details.

Greensboro Grasshoppers
12 pm Home Game. See web site for details.

Friday, September 3

Local Consignment Sales
Visit our favorite consigning website, http://consignmentmommies.com/ to find all the sales near you!

Greensboro Grasshoppers
7 pm Home Game. See web site for details.

DADA First Friday Gallery Hop
Friday, September 3, 2010, 7 – 10pm
Sixth, Trade and Liberty Streets, Winston-Salem
Streets of the Downtown Winston-Salem’s Art District are closed to autos and filled with the downtown arts community, artist demonstrations, music, dance and more. Free.

Center City Park
Friday Night Live
6-9pm -- Free
6pm - Decoration Ghost; 7pm - Hammer No More the Fingers; 8pm - The Bronzed Chorus
In collaboration with First Friday, Center City Park will liven up the heart of downtown with live music, Mischief Makers Handmade Market and activities for children.

$4 Fun Friday Nights
Friday, September 3, 2010, 5 – 8pm
Greensboro Children's Museum, 220 North Church Street, Greensboro NC 27401
Bring the family to explore the Greensboro Children's Museum after 5 p.m. on Friday nights when admission is only $4 per person.

Music & Mingle!
Friday, September 3, 2010, 6 – 8pm
The Factory Courtyard, 210 N. Main St, Kernersville, NC
Listen to live music and relax in the courtyard of The Factory --

First Friday in Downtown Greensboro
Friday, September 3, 2010, 6 – 9pm
Downtown Greensboro, 122 N. Elm Street, Suite 609, Greensboro NC 27401
First Friday is a free, self-guided tour of Downtown Greensboro’s shops, galleries and alternative arts venues that participate with specially programmed events and extended hours (until 9pm) on the first Friday of every month. The event is an opportunity to explore the center city’s local artistic community and encourages commerce and support of locally-owned, independent businesses located in Downtown. First Friday is promoted through a partnership between Downtown Greensboro Inc. and the United Arts Council of Greater Greensboro. Check for future updates and a downloadable map/guide at the First Friday Web site, www.downtownfridays.com.

"Children of Eden"
Friday, September 3, 2010, 8pm
West Side Civic Theatre, 116 Lowes Food Drive #239, Lewisville
West Side Civic Theatre presents the musical love story between the parents and their children from the Biblical Genesis account. Performances are in the outdoor ampitheatre; bring a lawn chair and arrive early, seating is first-come, first-serve. Free.

Cinema Under the Stars at Reynolda House
Friday, September 3, 2010, 8pm
Reynolda House, 2250 Reynolda Road, Winston-Salem
This summer Reynolda House presents “Hitchcock in Color,” its fifth annual Cinema Under the Stars film series co-sponsored by the School of Filmmaking of the University of North Carolina School of the Arts. The gates open at 8 p.m. and films will be screened at 9 p.m. each Friday night in August and the first Friday in September. Weather permitting, the movies will be shown outside on the lawn. In case of rain, films will be shown in the Babcock Auditorium. Beer and wine will be available for purchase only, and filmgoers are encouraged to come early and picnic on the lawn.

Saturday, September 4

Greensboro Grasshoppers
5:05 pm Home Game (make-up game from 8/18). See web site for details.

All-A-Flutter Family Days
Saturday, September 4, 2010, 10am – 3pm
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm, 7850-B Clinard Farms Road, High Point, NC
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm will hold Family Days every Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 9. All ages can experience the magic of hand feeding a monarch butterfly with a one hour and 15 minute tour of the butterfly house and presentation. No reservations necessary. Adults, $6; children, $5.
336-454-5651.

Maize Adventure
Saturday, September 4, 2010, 1 – 6pm
1615 Kersey Valley Road, High Point
Explore the Maize Adventure corn maze, pumpkin patch, gem dig, tram train, cow train, dinosaur discovery and giant jumping pillow. $3-$23. Ages 4 and under free for corn maze only.

Children's Storytime at Barnhill's Books
Saturday, September 4, 2010, 10:30am
Barnhill's Books * Wine * Art * Gifts, 811 Burke St, Winston-Salem NC 27101
Every Saturday, Barnhill's has a children's reading time scheduled for 10:30 and 1:30. Bring the kids to hear a story!

"Children of Eden"
Saturday, September 4, 2010, 8pm
West Side Civic Theatre, 116 Lowes Food Drive #239, Lewisville.
West Side Civic Theatre presents the musical love story between the parents and their children from the Biblical Genesis account. Performances are in the outdoor ampitheatre; bring a lawn chair and arrive early, seating is first-come, first-serve. Free.

The Story of Magic Show
Saturday, September 4, 2010, 11am
Children's Museum of Winston-Salem, 390 S. Liberty St., W-S
Prepare to be amazed with a magic show featuring amazing tricks and magical tales. Free with museum admission, $7. 11 a.m.

Sunday, September 5

All-A-Flutter Family Days
Sunday, September 5, 2010, 10am – 3pm
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm, 7850-B Clinard Farms Road, High Point, NC
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm will hold Family Days every Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 9. All ages can experience the magic of hand feeding a monarch butterfly with a one hour and 15 minute tour of the butterfly house and presentation. No reservations necessary. Adults, $6; children, $5. 336-454-5651.

Maize Adventure
Sunday, September 5, 2010, 1 – 6pm
1615 Kersey Valley Road, High Point
Explore the Maize Adventure corn maze, pumpkin patch, gem dig, tram train, cow train, dinosaur discovery and giant jumping pillow. $3-$23. Ages 4 and under free for corn maze only.

"Children of Eden"
Sunday, September 5, 2010, 8pm
West Side Civic Theatre, 116 Lowes Food Drive #239, Lewisville.
West Side Civic Theatre presents the musical love story between the parents and their children from the Biblical Genesis account. Performances are in the outdoor ampitheatre; bring a lawn chair and arrive early, seating is first-come, first-serve. Free.

Monday, September 6

FREE Labor Day Concert "Music to Eat Popcorn By"
Monday, September 6, 2010, 6pm
Children's Museum of Winston-Salem, 390 S. Liberty St. , Winston-Salem, NC 27101
This year’s concert features music from some of your favorite films. Directed by Robert Simon and Jeff Whitsett, concert highlights include medleys such as “Chillers & Thrillers”, “Disney at the Oscars”, “Grease”, “James Bond Suite”, John Williams’ “Fantasy of Flight”, “Mission Impossible”, “Pink Panther”, Theme from “Shaft” and many others. Children are invited to dress up as their favorite movie characters and walk the red carpet. Bring your lawn chairs and a picnic for an evening of movie-going musical fun for the entire family. Food will also be available for purchase from a variety of local vendors. Join the Piedmont Wind Symphony for this Red Carpet event, as it opens its 21st season with “Music To Eat Popcorn By!”

Maize Adventure
Monday, September 6, 2010, 1 – 6pm
1615 Kersey Valley Road, High Point
Explore the Maize Adventure corn maze, pumpkin patch, gem dig, tram train, cow train, dinosaur discovery and giant jumping pillow. $3-$23. Ages 4 and under free for corn maze only.

Tuesday, September 7

Krankies Farmers Market
Tuesday, September 7, 2010, 10am – 1pm
Krankies Coffee, 211 E. Third St., Winston-Salem, NC, 27101
Krankies Farmers Market is located outside Krankies Coffee, on Patterson Ave between 3rd and 4th Streets in downtown Winston-Salem. The market is open every Tuesday, 10am-1pm. It is an all-local, producers-only market that seeks to bring a wide variety of fresh foods to downtown Winston-Salem. Vendors are selected on the basis of their healthy, sustainable, and humane practices. The market is a joint effort between Triad Buying Co-op Inc., Krankies Coffee, and Piedmont Triad Research Park.

Wednesday, September 8

Greensboro Grasshoppers
7 pm Home Game. See web site for details.

Tunes at Noon
Wednesday, September 8, 2010, 12 – 1:30pm
Center City Park , 200 North Elm Street, Greensboro, NC
Center City Park provides free live music during lunchtime. Bring your lunch, kick back and relax to some cool tunes with some of the Triad's best artists.

Thursday, September 9

Greensboro Grasshoppers
7 pm Home Game. See web site for details.

Weatherization Makes $ense: A Workshop
Thursday, September 9, 2010, 12:30 – 2:30pm
Reynolda Manor Branch Library, 2839 Fairlawn Drive, Winston-Salem, NC 27106
If you spend too much on your energy bills or want to make your home more comfortable and environmentally friendly, this workshop is for you! Join Piedmont Environmental Alliance and Forsyth County Library to learn more about home energy audits, basic weatherization projects, and landscaping for energy efficiency. Because LESS energy loss means MORE savings!

Bethabara Concert Band & Family Evening
Thursday, September 9, 2010, 5:30 – 8pm
Historic Bethabara Park, 2147 Bethabara Road, Winston-Salem NC 27106
An evening of music under the open sky. Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy the wonderful music of the Bethabara Concert Band. Hay Wagon rides, 25-cent ice cream. Combo plays dance music following the Concert.

"Children of Eden"
Thursday, September 9, 2010, 8pm
West Side Civic Theatre, 116 Lowes Food Drive #239, Lewisville.
West Side Civic Theatre presents the musical love story between the parents and their children from the Biblical Genesis account. Performances are in the outdoor ampitheatre; bring a lawn chair and arrive early, seating is first-come, first-serve. Free.
LINK

High Point Beach Music Blast
Thursday, September 9, 2010, 5:30 – 8:30pm
Uptown High Point, 1525 North Main Street, High Point NC 27260
The Embers - Beach Music Concert series will run every Thursday from September 9 to September 30, 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, in uptown High Point at 1525 North Main Street. Take a trip to the beach Uptowne High Point, admission fee to benefit the Children's Home Society of North Carolina.

Friday, September 10

Local Consignment Sales
Visit our favorite consigning website, http://consignmentmommies.com/ to find all the sales near you!

Light Up the Arts Gala with Tony Bennett Opens Rhodes Arts Center
Friday, September 10, 2010, 6pm
Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts, 251 North Spruce Street, Winston-Salem NC 27101
The new Milton Rhodes Center for the Arts in Winston-Salem, NC, will open its doors on Friday, September 10 with the Light Up the Arts Gala with Tony Bennett presented by Hanesbrands Inc. It's a festive party filled with music, drama, laughter and visual delights around every corner of the new Center. Bennett performance at 8 PM.

Music & Mingle!
Friday, September 10, 2010, 6 – 8pm
The Factory Courtyard, 210 N. Main St, Kernersville, NC
Listen to live music and relax in the courtyard of The Factory --

Family Bingo & Spaghetti Night
Friday, September 10, 2010, 6 – 7:30pm
Davie Family YMCA, 215 Cemetery Street, Mocksville, NC 27028
Davie YMCA 751-9622. Please call for times and activites

Rock Laser Shows
Friday, September 10, 2010, 7pm
SCIWorks, 400W. Hanes Mill Road, Winston-Salem, NC
Enjoy the sounds and the laser light show – in the spacious and comfortable SciWorks Planetarium! Seating is first come, first served. Tickets are $6 per person per show, or $5 per person, per show for two or more shows (same night). No refunds will be given. No advance ticket sales. Doors open at 6:30pm.
Ticket purchase does not include access to museum galleries. All museum galleries and park will be closed.

$4 Fun Friday Nights
Friday, September 10, 2010, 5 – 8pm
Greensboro Children's Museum, 220 North Church Street, Greensboro NC 27401
Bring the family to explore the Greensboro Children's Museum after 5 p.m. on Friday nights when admission is only $4 per person.

The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair
Friday, September 10, 2010, 5 – 10pm
Greensboro Coliseum Complex, 1921 W. Lee St., Greensboro, NC 27403
The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair will light up the sky around the Greensboro Coliseum Complex once again this fall. Featuring spectacular rides, carnival food and games, thousands of exhibits brought to you by local 4H groups and wholesome family entertainment and attractions for all ages, the 112th annual edition of the Central Carolina Fair will begin Friday, September 10 and run through Sunday, September 19.

"Children of Eden"
Friday, September 10, 2010, 8pm
West Side Civic Theatre, 116 Lowes Food Drive #239, Lewisville.
West Side Civic Theatre presents the musical love story between the parents and their children from the Biblical Genesis account. Performances are in the outdoor ampitheatre; bring a lawn chair and arrive early, seating is first-come, first-serve. Free.

Saturday, September 11

Healthy Kids Happy Smiles Family Fun Festival
Saturday, Sept. 11 from 10 am – 2 pm
Lake Jeanette Orthodontics and Pediatric Dentistry, 3901 North Elm St, GSO
Join more than 400 attendees at this family friendly event, and mingle with community supporters like the American Cancer Society, Greensboro Fire and Police Departments, Greensboro Children's Museum, Spears Family YMCA, North Carolina Lung Partnership, UNCG Dieticians, Eagle Physicians, Get Healthy Guilford and American Red Cross.

Maize Adventure
Saturday, September 11, 2010, 1 – 6pm
1615 Kersey Valley Road, High Point
Explore the Maize Adventure corn maze, pumpkin patch, gem dig, tram train, cow train, dinosaur discovery and giant jumping pillow. $3-$23. Ages 4 and under free for corn maze only.
LINK

35th Annual Stokes Stomp
Saturday, September 11, 2010, 9am – 11pm
Stokes County Arts Council, 500 N. Main Street, Danbury NC 27016
The Stokes County Arts Council is proud to present the upcoming 36th Annual Stokes Stomp, Festival on the Dan scheduled for Saturday, September 11, 2010 and Sunday, September 12, 2010 on the beautiful banks of the Dan River at Moratock Park, located on Sheppard Mill Road, in Danbury, North Carolina. Numerous food vendors, arts and crafts vendors, and much, much more will be available!

Beach Night at Junker's Mill
Saturday, September 11, 2010, 7 – 11pm
Junker's Mill Outdoor Amphitheater, 105 S Salisbury Street, Historic Downtown Mocksville, Mocksville, NC 27028
Enjoy Beach Night under the stars featuring Part Time Party Band and The Fantastic Shakers. Bring your lawn chair. Food and drinks will be available for purchase so no coolers allowed.

Run 4 the Greenway – 8K and 1 Mile Walk
Saturday, September 11, 2010, 3:30pm
Center City Park, 200 North Elm Street, Greensboro, NC 27401
Lace up your running shoes for the first annual Run 4 the Greenway, an 8K and 1 Mile Walk/Run benefiting the Downtown Greenway! Food, fun, entertainment and activities for all ages beginning at 3:30 p.m. in Center City Park. Special musical guest includes the funky and acoustic Evan Olson and Dana. All race proceeds will benefit the Downtown Greenway, a four-mile loop around downtown Greensboro for running, walking and biking. Donations are also appreciated and contributions may be made to the Maintenance Endowment for the Greenway. Race registration is now open at www.downtowngreenway.org for the Sept. 11, 2010 race. Sign up for the 8K before Aug. 30, and receive $5 off race registration! We also need volunteers to help promote the event and work on race day. All runners will receive a free t-shirt with registration. Race registration is $25 for the 8K ($30 after Aug. 30 and on race day); $15 for the 1 Mile Walk/Run (12 and under are FREE). The 1 Mile Walk/Run will begin at 5 p.m., and the 8K at 5:30 p.m. Food, fun, entertainment and activities for all ages beginning at 3:30 p.m. in Center City Park.

All-A-Flutter Family Days
Saturday, September 11, 2010, 10am – 3pm
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm, 7850-B Clinard Farms Road, High Point, NC
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm will hold Family Days every Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 9. All ages can experience the magic of hand feeding a monarch butterfly with a one hour and 15 minute tour of the butterfly house and presentation. No reservations necessary. Adults, $6; children, $5. 336-454-5651.

Children's Storytime at Barnhill's Books
Saturday, September 11, 2010, 10:30am
Barnhill's Books * Wine * Art * Gifts, 811 Burke St, Winston-Salem NC 27101
Every Saturday, Barnhill's has a children's reading time scheduled for 10:30 and 1:30. Bring the kids to hear a story!

Wake Forest Football vs. Duke
Saturday, September 11, 2010, 12pm
Winston-Salem, NC

"Children of Eden"
Saturday, September 11, 2010, 8pm
West Side Civic Theatre, 116 Lowes Food Drive #239, Lewisville.
West Side Civic Theatre presents the musical love story between the parents and their children from the Biblical Genesis account. Performances are in the outdoor ampitheatre; bring a lawn chair and arrive early, seating is first-come, first-serve. Free.

Rock Laser Shows
Saturday, September 11, 2010, 7pm
SCIWorks, 400W. Hanes Mill Road, Winston-Salem, NC
Enjoy the sounds and the laser light show – in the spacious and comfortable SciWorks Planetarium! Seating is first come, first served. Tickets are $6 per person per show, or $5 per person, per show for two or more shows (same night). No refunds will be given. No advance ticket sales. Doors open at 6:30pm. Ticket purchase does not include access to museum galleries. All museum galleries and park will be closed.

Sunday, September 12

Ronald McDonald House Expansion Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting
Sunday, September 12 from 3:00pm - 5:00pm
The Ronald McDonald House, 419 S. Hawthorne Road, Winston-Salem
Come celebrate the grand opening of the Ronald McDonald House Expansion. Tour the House and enjoy family-friendly activities, entertainment and treats!

Grandparents Day
Sunday, September 12, 2010, 1 – 5pm
Greensboro Children's Museum, 220 N. Church St., Greensboro
Grandparents admitted free - Activities include a Memory Toy Trunk presented by Elsewhere Collaborative, a family heirloom project using art and photography, cider making, music from the 20's to the 60's playing in the Museum and much more.

Maize Adventure
Sunday, September 12, 2010, 1 – 6pm
1615 Kersey Valley Road, High Point
Explore the Maize Adventure corn maze, pumpkin patch, gem dig, tram train, cow train, dinosaur discovery and giant jumping pillow. $3-$23. Ages 4 and under free for corn maze only.

The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair
Sunday, September 12, 2010, 1 – 11pm
Greensboro Coliseum Complex, 1921 W. Lee St., Greensboro, NC 27403
The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair will light up the sky around the Greensboro Coliseum Complex once again this fall. Featuring spectacular rides, carnival food and games, thousands of exhibits brought to you by local 4H groups and wholesome family entertainment and attractions for all ages, the 112th annual edition of the Central Carolina Fair will begin Friday, September 10 and run through Sunday, September 19. Advance Tickets ONLY $15 – On Sale Aug. 27th – Sept. 10th at 5pm
Regular Adult (over 10) Admission is only $5.
Seniors / Children 10 & under are Free.
Single Ride Tickets are $1.25.
Ticket Books will be available as well.
Unlimited Ride Bands are available everyday for $20 (adults) or $15 (children 10 & under).
Saturdays after 8 PM - $25, includes unlimited ride wristband

Music at the Mansion
Sunday, September 12, 2010, 2 – 6pm
Blandwood Mansion, 447 W. Washington St., Greensboro, 27401-2348
Featuring House of Dues and Melva Houston. On the grounds of historic Blandwood Mansion. Fundraising event designed to benefit the operations of Preservation Greensboro Inc. and to increase awareness of the organization’s preservation initiatives. The entire family will enjoy great food and tunes!
$7 per adult; children aged 12 and under FREE

All-A-Flutter Family Days
Sunday, September 12, 2010, 10am – 3pm
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm, 7850-B Clinard Farms Road, High Point, NC
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm will hold Family Days every Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 9. All ages can experience the magic of hand feeding a monarch butterfly with a one hour and 15 minute tour of the butterfly house and presentation. No reservations necessary. Adults, $6; children, $5. 336-454-5651.

35th Annual Stokes Stomp
Sunday, September 12, 2010, 11am – 7pm
Stokes County Arts Council, 500 N. Main Street, Danbury NC 27016
The Stokes County Arts Council is proud to present the upcoming 36th Annual Stokes Stomp, Festival on the Dan scheduled for Saturday, September 11, 2010 and Sunday, September 12, 2010 on the beautiful banks of the Dan River at Moratock Park, located on Sheppard Mill Road, in Danbury, North Carolina. Numerous food vendors, arts and crafts vendors, and much, much more will be available!

Monday, September 13

Stokes County Agricultural Fair
King, North Carolina - 436 S Main St
60th Annual Stokes County Agricultural Fair, Rides, Games, Exhibits, Food, Entertainers. & Vendors 336-983-3608

The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair
Monday, September 13, 2010, 5 – 11pm
Greensboro Coliseum Complex, 1921 W. Lee St., Greensboro, NC 27403
The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair will light up the sky around the Greensboro Coliseum Complex once again this fall. Featuring spectacular rides, carnival food and games, thousands of exhibits brought to you by local 4H groups and wholesome family entertainment and attractions for all ages, the 112th annual edition of the Central Carolina Fair will begin Friday, September 10 and run through Sunday, September 19.
LINK

Tuesday, September 14

Stokes County Agricultural Fair
King, North Carolina - 436 S Main St
60th Annual Stokes County Agricultural Fair, Rides, Games, Exhibits, Food, Entertainers. & Vendors 336-983-3608

Carolina Classic Movie "To Kill a Mockingbird" (Matinee)
Tuesday, September 14, 2010, 1:30 – 3:30pm
Carolina Theatre, 310 South Greene Street, Greensboro, NC 27401
Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Harper Lee’s classic To Kill a Mockingbird!
Ranked #34 on the American Film Institute's list of the 100 Greatest American Films, To Kill a Mockingbird is one of the finest dramas ever made. A beautiful and deeply moving adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Harper Lee, the film retains a timeless quality that transcends its subject matter (racism in the Depression-era South) and remains resonant in present-day America with its advocacy of tolerance, justice, integrity, and loving, responsible parenthood.
Matinee tickets are $5, or $4 for students, seniors, military and groups. (Group purchases should be made through the box office.)

The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair
Tuesday, September 14, 2010, 5 – 11pm
Greensboro Coliseum Complex, 1921 W. Lee St., Greensboro, NC 27403
The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair will light up the sky around the Greensboro Coliseum Complex once again this fall. Featuring spectacular rides, carnival food and games, thousands of exhibits brought to you by local 4H groups and wholesome family entertainment and attractions for all ages, the 112th annual edition of the Central Carolina Fair will begin Friday, September 10 and run through Sunday, September 19.

Wednesday, September 15

Stokes County Agricultural Fair
King, North Carolina - 436 S Main St
60th Annual Stokes County Agricultural Fair, Rides, Games, Exhibits, Food, Entertainers. & Vendors 336-983-3608

http://www.centercitypark.org/
Wednesday, September 15, 2010, 12 – 1:30pm
Center City Park, 200 North Elm Street, Greensboro, NC
Center City Park provides free live music during lunchtime. Bring your lunch, kick back and relax to some cool tunes with some of the Triad's best artists.

The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair
Wednesday, September 15, 2010, 5 – 11pm
Greensboro Coliseum Complex, 1921 W. Lee St., Greensboro, NC 27403
The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair will light up the sky around the Greensboro Coliseum Complex once again this fall. Featuring spectacular rides, carnival food and games, thousands of exhibits brought to you by local 4H groups and wholesome family entertainment and attractions for all ages, the 112th annual edition of the Central Carolina Fair will begin Friday, September 10 and run through Sunday, September 19.

Thursday, September 16

Stokes County Agricultural Fair
King, North Carolina - 436 S Main St
60th Annual Stokes County Agricultural Fair, Rides, Games, Exhibits, Food, Entertainers. & Vendors 336-983-3608

Auditions for The Wizard of Oz
Kids (5-18) Auditions:
Thursday, Sept. 16 from 6-9 pm
Sunday, Sept. 19 from 2-6 pm
The Community Theatre of Greensboro is looking for a large cast of adults, teens and children (ages 5 and older), all types, ages and ethnicities for the 16th annual production of the biggest theatrical extravaganza in the Triad. Please come with a prepared song—sheet music or karaoke CD ( music only; no one singing on the CD). Even if you are auditioning for a non-singing role, we would like for you to sing something. An accompanist will be provided and we will have a CD player on hand if needed. Please bring comfortable clothes and proper footwear for the movement/dance portion of the audition. If you are a gymnast please prepare to show us some “tricks.” If you are a tap dancer, please bring your tap shoes as well. Dancing auditions not required if you are only auditioning for a non-singing principal role. CTG believes in non-traditional casting and encourages everyone to come out.

The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair
Thursday, September 16, 2010, 5 – 11pm
Greensboro Coliseum Complex, 1921 W. Lee St. , Greensboro, NC 27403
The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair will light up the sky around the Greensboro Coliseum Complex once again this fall. Featuring spectacular rides, carnival food and games, thousands of exhibits brought to you by local 4H groups and wholesome family entertainment and attractions for all ages, the 112th annual edition of the Central Carolina Fair will begin Friday, September 10 and run through Sunday, September 19.

High Point Beach Music Blast
Thursday, September 16, 2010, 5:30 – 8:30pm
Uptowne High Point, 1525 North Main Street, High Point NC 27260
The Embers - Beach Music Concert series will run every Thursday from September 9 to September 30, 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, in uptown High Point at 1525 North Main Street. Take a trip to the beach Uptowne High Point, admission fee to benefit the Children's Home Society of North Carolina.

Friday, September 17

Local Consignment Sales
Visit our favorite consigning website, http://consignmentmommies.com/ to find all the sales near you!

Stokes County Agricultural Fair
King, North Carolina - 436 S Main St
60th Annual Stokes County Agricultural Fair, Rides, Games, Exhibits, Food, Entertainers. & Vendors 336-983-3608

The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon
Friday, September 17, 2010, 8pm
Cupid's Park Theatre,Korner's Folly, 413 South Main Street
Kernersville
The fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm are turned on their heads in this fast-paced, rollicking ride as two narrators and several actors attempt to combine all 209 stories ranging from classics like Snow White, Cinderella, and Hansel and Gretel to more bizarre, obscure stories like The Devil's Grandmother and The Girl Without Hands. A wild, free-form comedy with lots of audience participation and madcap fun.
Adults $19, Student/Senior (55+) $17

Sunset Musical Flight
Friday, September 17, 2010, 6:30 – 8:30pm
RayLen Vineyards & Winery, 3577 Highway 158, Mocksville, NC 27028
Enjoy a variety of musical styles along with your favorite glass of RayLen wine
for a relaxing evening at the vineyard. Invite your friends, pack a picnic, bring a chair. Glass and bottle sales available. Picnic Baskets, Lawn Chairs, and Flip-Flops Welcome. Pets and Coolers Prohibited In accordance with BATF & ALE: ONLY ALCOHOL PURCHASED AT RAYLEN MAY BE CONSUMED ON-SITE. Rain or Shine

$4 Fun Friday Nights
Friday, September 17, 2010, 5 – 8pm
Greensboro Children's Museum, 220 North Church Street, Greensboro NC 27401
Bring the family to explore the Greensboro Children's Museum after 5 p.m. on Friday nights when admission is only $4 per person.
LINK

The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair
Friday, September 17, 2010, 5 – 11pm
Greensboro Coliseum Complex, 1921 W. Lee St., Greensboro, NC 27403
The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair will light up the sky around the Greensboro Coliseum Complex once again this fall. Featuring spectacular rides, carnival food and games, thousands of exhibits brought to you by local 4H groups and wholesome family entertainment and attractions for all ages, the 112th annual edition of the Central Carolina Fair will begin Friday, September 10 and run through Sunday, September 19.

Music & Mingle!
Friday, September 17, 2010, 6 – 8pm
The Factory Courtyard, 210 N. Main St, Kernersville, NC
Listen to live music and relax in the courtyard of The Factory --

Center City Cinema
Friday, September 17, 2010, 8pm
Center City Park, 200 North Elm Street, Greensboro, NC
Join us for a free family friendly movie night in the Park! Each month, we will show a different movie and highlight a nonprofit doing good work in our community. Bring a blanket, a picnic and some spare change to purchase popcorn and candy!
•September 17: Hairspray featuring the United Arts Council of Greater Greensboro
•October 15: Akeelah and the Bee featuring the International Civil Rights Center and Museum

Rock Laser Shows
Friday, September 17, 2010, 7pm
SCIWorks, 400W. Hanes Mill Road, Winston-Salem, NC
Enjoy the sounds and the laser light show – in the spacious and comfortable SciWorks Planetarium! Seating is first come, first served. Tickets are $6 per person per show, or $5 per person, per show for two or more shows (same night). No refunds will be given. No advance ticket sales. Doors open at 6:30pm. Ticket purchase does not include access to museum galleries. All museum galleries and park will be closed.

Saturday, September 18

Stokes County Agricultural Fair
King, North Carolina - 436 S Main St
60th Annual Stokes County Agricultural Fair, Rides, Games, Exhibits, Food, Entertainers. & Vendors 336-983-3608

Grand Opening of Yadkin Cultural Arts Center & Annual Harvest Festival
Saturday, September 18, 2010, 9am – 4:30pm
Yadkin Cultural Arts Center - and Downtown Yadkinville, Main Street, Yadkinville NC
The 34th Annual Yadkin Valley Harvest Festival will be held in conjunction with the opening of the Cultural Arts Center. Downtown streets will be closed to accommodate a flow of foot traffic wrapping around four streets with food courts, live music,blue ribbon competitions,arts and crafts displays and the opening of "The Yadkin River Story" photojournalism exhibit by Christine Rucker and Phoebe Zerwick inside the

All-A-Flutter Family Days
Saturday, September 18, 2010, 10am – 3pm
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm, 7850-B Clinard Farms Road, High Point, NC
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm will hold Family Days every Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 9. All ages can experience the magic of hand feeding a monarch butterfly with a one hour and 15 minute tour of the butterfly house and presentation. No reservations necessary. Adults, $6; children, $5. 336-454-5651.

The Honeybee Festival
Saturday, September 18, 2010, 10am – 6pm
The Honeybee Festival, 702 W. Mountain Street, Kernersville, NC 27284
Take a stroll through Fourth of July park and enjoy local arts and crafts, food, and entertainment.

Great Apes at the NC Zoo
Saturday, September 18, 2010, 9am – 5pm
North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro, Asheboro NC
Show your appreciation for the primates as keepers and their friends will gather at the Chimpanzee and the Gorilla exhibits to answer questions and talk about the Zoo's Great Apes.

The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair
Saturday, September 18, 2010, 10am – 11pm
Greensboro Coliseum Complex, 1921 W. Lee St., Greensboro, NC 27403
The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair will light up the sky around the Greensboro Coliseum Complex once again this fall. Featuring spectacular rides, carnival food and games, thousands of exhibits brought to you by local 4H groups and wholesome family entertainment and attractions for all ages, the 112th annual edition of the Central Carolina Fair will begin Friday, September 10 and run through Sunday, September 19.
Advance Tickets ONLY $15 – On Sale Aug. 27th – Sept. 10th at 5pm
Regular Adult (over 10) Admission is only $5.
Seniors / Children 10 & under are Free.
Single Ride Tickets are $1.25.
Ticket Books will be available as well.
Unlimited Ride Bands are available everyday for $20 (adults) or $15 (children 10 & under). Saturdays after 8 PM - $25, includes unlimited ride wristband

Maize Adventure
Saturday, September 18, 2010, 1 – 6pm
1615 Kersey Valley Road, High Point
Explore the Maize Adventure corn maze, pumpkin patch, gem dig, tram train, cow train, dinosaur discovery and giant jumping pillow. $3-$23. Ages 4 and under free for corn maze only.

Apple Festival
Saturday, September 18, 2010, 10:30am – 4:30pm
Historic Bethabara Park, 2147 Bethabara Rd, Winston Salem, NC 27106
Come and celebrate the harvest at Apple Festival 2010. Unique crafts, traditional music and food fill Historic Bethabara Park. Local orchards, handicraft demonstrations, and colonial re-enactors highlight this festival, as do horse-drawn wagon rides and colonial games.

Children's Storytime at Barnhill's Books
Saturday, September 18, 2010, 10:30am
Barnhill's Books * Wine * Art * Gifts, 811 Burke St, Winston-Salem NC 27101
Every Saturday, Barnhill's has a children's reading time scheduled for 10:30 and 1:30. Bring the kids to hear a story!

Rock the Block with Chris Paul
Saturday, September 18, 2010, 11am – 11pm
Downtown Winston-Salem, 500 W. 4th Street, Winston Salem NC 27101
NBA star Chris Paul is teaming up with the city and the Downtown Winston-Salem Partnership to stage Rock the Block with Chris Paul, Winston-Salem’s biggest end-of-summer street party yet, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 18, in downtown Winston-Salem. The event will be on 4th St. and in the Benton Convention Center. There are 4 stages of music. The event is free with a few exceptions.

Shipwreck Shindig
Saturday, September 18, 2010, 6 – 7:30pm
Children's Museum of Winston-Salem, 390 S. Liberty St., Winston-Salem
$8/member, $10/nonmember.
Arrrr! We are shipwrecked pirates. What’s left to do but enjoy a shindig and a little time away from the sea? We’ll play games, sing pirate shanties, get tattoos (temporary, that is) and discover why pirates wear patches. Come dressed as sealoving souls or prepare your pirate gear at the shindig. Pre-registration is required for this event! This event includes a pizza dinner.

Rock Laser Shows
Saturday, September 18, 2010, 7pm
SCIWorks, 400 Hanes Mill Road, Winston-Salem, NC
Enjoy the sounds and the laser light show – in the spacious and comfortable SciWorks Planetarium! Seating is first come, first served. Tickets are $6 per person per show, or $5 per person, per show for two or more shows (same night). No refunds will be given. No advance ticket sales. Doors open at 6:30pm. Ticket purchase does not include access to museum galleries. All museum galleries and park will be closed.

Sunday, September 19

Auditions for The Wizard of Oz
Kids (5-18) Auditions:
Thursday, Sept. 16 from 6-9 pm
Sunday, Sept. 19 from 2-6 pm
The Community Theatre of Greensboro is looking for a large cast of adults, teens and children (ages 5 and older), all types, ages and ethnicities for the 16th annual production of the biggest theatrical extravaganza in the Triad. Please come with a prepared song—sheet music or karaoke CD ( music only; no one singing on the CD). Even if you are auditioning for a non-singing role, we would like for you to sing something. An accompanist will be provided and we will have a CD player on hand if needed. Please bring comfortable clothes and proper footwear for the movement/dance portion of the audition. If you are a gymnast please prepare to show us some “tricks.” If you are a tap dancer, please bring your tap shoes as well. Dancing auditions not required if you are only auditioning for a non-singing principal role. CTG believes in non-traditional casting and encourages everyone to come out.

All-A-Flutter Family Days
Sunday, September 19, 2010, 10am – 3pm
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm, 7850-B Clinard Farms Road, High Point, NC
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm will hold Family Days every Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 9. All ages can experience the magic of hand feeding a monarch butterfly with a one hour and 15 minute tour of the butterfly house and presentation. No reservations necessary. Adults, $6; children, $5.336-454-5651.

Great Apes at the NC Zoo
Sunday, September 19, 2010, 9am – 5pm
North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro, Asheboro NC
Show your appreciation for the primates as keepers and their friends will gather at the Chimpanzee and the Gorilla exhibits to answer questions and talk about the Zoo's Great Apes.

Maize Adventure
Sunday, September 19, 2010, 1 – 6pm
1615 Kersey Valley Road, High Point
Explore the Maize Adventure corn maze, pumpkin patch, gem dig, tram train, cow train, dinosaur discovery and giant jumping pillow. $3-$23. Ages 4 and under free for corn maze only.

The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair
Sunday, September 19, 2010, 1 – 6pm
Greensboro Coliseum Complex, 1921 W. Lee St., Greensboro, NC 27403
The 112th annual Central Carolina Fair will light up the sky around the Greensboro Coliseum Complex once again this fall. Featuring spectacular rides, carnival food and games, thousands of exhibits brought to you by local 4H groups and wholesome family entertainment and attractions for all ages, the 112th annual edition of the Central Carolina Fair will begin Friday, September 10 and run through Sunday, September 19.
Advance Tickets ONLY $15 – On Sale Aug. 27th – Sept. 10th at 5pm
Regular Adult (over 10) Admission is only $5.
Seniors / Children 10 & under are Free.
Single Ride Tickets are $1.25.
Ticket Books will be available as well.
Unlimited Ride Bands are available everyday for $20 (adults) or $15 (children 10 & under). Saturdays after 8 PM - $25, includes unlimited ride wristband

Monday, September 20

Tuesday, September 21

Wednesday, September 22

Tunes at Noon
Wednesday, September 22, 2010, 12 – 1:30pm
Center City Park, 200 North Elm Street, Greensboro, NC
Center City Park provides free live music during lunchtime. Bring your lunch, kick back and relax to some cool tunes with some of the Triad's best artists.

The Trials and Tribulations of a Trailer Park Housewife
Wednesday, September 22, 2010, 8 – 9pm
Broach Theatre, 520 S Elm Street, Greensboro, NC 27406
“A feat of breathtaking audacity.“ – Critics Choice, Los Angeles Times
Willi is the trailer trash housewife of the title, not necessarily of her own volition. Her abusive husband won’t let her get a job, one of her children is dead, and the other is verboten by her husband because he’s gay. Her best and only friend, a large black woman who lives next door, worries about her constantly, always concerned that Willi’s husband will end up killing her. A new woman comes to live in the trailer park and ends up having an affair with Willi’s husband. When she finds out, Willi decides to get a job at the local Wal-Mart (a first step on the way to liberating herself from him). Her husband will have none of it, and quoting the bible about how a wife is supposed to obey her husband, threatens all three women with a gun, and then beats Willi to within an inch of her life. She recovers enough to finally shoot him, releasing her from the torment that she’d been living in for years. A blues singer weaves songs into the action, commenting upon Willi’s predicament and urging her toward decisive action. Tonight’s performance is a preview. All tickets are $16 Reserved Seating. There will be a $1.50 Broach Handling Fee added to each ticket.

Thursday, September 23

High Point Beach Music Blast
Thursday, September 23, 2010, 5:30 – 8:30pm
Uptowne High Point, 1525 North Main Street, High Point NC 27260
The Embers - Beach Music Concert series will run every Thursday from September 9 to September 30, 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, in uptown High Point at 1525 North Main Street. Take a trip to the beach Uptowne High Point, admission fee to benefit the Children's Home Society of North Carolina.

The Trials and Tribulations of a Trailer Park Housewife
Thursday, September 23, 2010, 8 – 9pm
Broach Theatre, 520 S Elm Street, Greensboro, NC 27406
“A feat of breathtaking audacity.“ – Critics Choice, Los Angeles Times
Willi is the trailer trash housewife of the title, not necessarily of her own volition. Her abusive husband won’t let her get a job, one of her children is dead, and the other is verboten by her husband because he’s gay. Her best and only friend, a large black woman who lives next door, worries about her constantly, always concerned that Willi’s husband will end up killing her. A new woman comes to live in the trailer park and ends up having an affair with Willi’s husband. When she finds out, Willi decides to get a job at the local Wal-Mart (a first step on the way to liberating herself from him). Her husband will have none of it, and quoting the bible about how a wife is supposed to obey her husband, threatens all three women with a gun, and then beats Willi to within an inch of her life. She recovers enough to finally shoot him, releasing her from the torment that she’d been living in for years. A blues singer weaves songs into the action, commenting upon Willi’s predicament and urging her toward decisive action. Tonight’s performance is a preview. All tickets are $16 Reserved Seating. There will be a $1.50 Broach Handling Fee added to each ticket.

Friday, September 24

Local Consignment Sales
Visit our favorite consigning website, http://consignmentmommies.com/ to find all the sales near you!

2010 Art Unleased – Adoption Auction/Fundraiser
Friday, September 24 from 6 pm to 11 pm
Millennium Center Downtown, Winston-Salem
Please join the Forsyth Humane Society to adopt a sculpture for your business, home or garden. The silent auction will also feature a variety of other original artwork, in various mediums with something for everyone.
Take home an original piece of art and help homeless and neglected animals at the same time. For more information call the Forsyth Humane Society, 721-1303 or visit

Rock Laser Shows
Friday, September 24, 2010, 7pm
SCIWorks, 400W. Hanes Mill Road, Winston-Salem, NC
Enjoy the sounds and the laser light show – in the spacious and comfortable SciWorks Planetarium! Seating is first come, first served. Tickets are $6 per person per show, or $5 per person, per show for two or more shows (same night). No refunds will be given. No advance ticket sales. Doors open at 6:30pm.
Ticket purchase does not include access to museum galleries. All museum galleries and park will be closed.

$4 Fun Friday Nights
Friday, September 24, 2010, 5 – 8pm
Greensboro Children's Museum, 220 North Church Street, Greensboro NC 27401
Bring the family to explore the Greensboro Children's Museum after 5 p.m. on Friday nights when admission is only $4 per person.

Bring Dad to Play Day*-Fourth Friday night of each month
Friday, September 24, 2010, 5 – 8pm
Greensboro Children's Museum, 220 North Church St, Greensboro, NC
Calling all daddies, grandpas, uncles, and friends…visit GCM for activities picked especially for dads & kids! $3 admission.

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Friday, September 24, 2010, 8pm
Odeon Theatre, Greensboro Coliseum Complex, 1921 W. Lee St., Greensboro, NC 27403
The competition is intense. The words are hilarious. Let the spelling begin! The show centers on a fictional spelling bee in Putnam County. Six wiz kids face off in the battle of their lives. Not only do they compete against each other, they will also compete against members of the audience. Three adults help adjudicate the proceedings: a nostalgic former spelling bee winner, a mildly insane Vice Principal and The Official Comfort Counselor completing his community service. A recent Broadway Tony-award winner and a lot of fun!!

The Trials and Tribulations of a Trailer Park Housewife
Friday, September 24, 2010, 8 – 9pm
Broach Theatre, 520 S Elm Street, Greensboro, NC 27406
“A feat of breathtaking audacity.“ – Critics Choice, Los Angeles Times
Willi is the trailer trash housewife of the title, not necessarily of her own volition. Her abusive husband won’t let her get a job, one of her children is dead, and the other is verboten by her husband because he’s gay. Her best and only friend, a large black woman who lives next door, worries about her constantly, always concerned that Willi’s husband will end up killing her. A new woman comes to live in the trailer park and ends up having an affair with Willi’s husband. When she finds out, Willi decides to get a job at the local Wal-Mart (a first step on the way to liberating herself from him). Her husband will have none of it, and quoting the bible about how a wife is supposed to obey her husband, threatens all three women with a gun, and then beats Willi to within an inch of her life. She recovers enough to finally shoot him, releasing her from the torment that she’d been living in for years. A blues singer weaves songs into the action, commenting upon Willi’s predicament and urging her toward decisive action. Tonight’s performance is a preview. All tickets are $16 Reserved Seating. There will be a $1.50 Broach Handling Fee added to each ticket.

Music & Mingle!
Friday, September 24, 2010, 6 – 8pm
The Factory Courtyard, 210 N. Main St, Kernersville, NC
Listen to live music and relax in the courtyard of The Factory

The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon
Friday, September 24, 2010, 8pm
Cupid's Park Theatre, Korner's Folly, 413 South Main Street, Kernersville
The fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm are turned on their heads in this fast-paced, rollicking ride as two narrators and several actors attempt to combine all 209 stories ranging from classics like Snow White, Cinderella, and Hansel and Gretel to more bizarre, obscure stories like The Devil's Grandmother and The Girl Without Hands. A wild, free-form comedy with lots of audience participation and madcap fun.
Adults $19, Student/Senior (55+) $17

Salem Baptist Christian School Clothing Consignment Sale
Friday, September 24
8am-5pm
429 South Broad Street
Winston-Salem, NC
725-6113

Saturday, September 25

Go Expo!
9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m.
301 West Fifth Street at the Benton Convention Center
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
www.goexpows.com
FREE ADMISSION! for families, kids, businesses, and building professionals.
This is a one of a kind opportunity for businesses, volunteer organizations and individuals to come together to GO green. Activities in the GO Kids kids zone will include planting stations, “100-mile diet” games, crafts, demonstrations, face painting, painting games, a library card sign-up station, and information for parents on how to help their kids grow up green.

Family Fun Fest
Saturday, September 25, 2010, 1 – 5pm
Asheboro Friends Meeting, 230 E. Kivett St, Asheboro, NC
A Free Family Fun Day! Popcorn, Sno Cones, Sunkist Drinks, Illusion Show, Moon Bounces, Slides, Games, Puppets, and the Good News Express

The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon
Saturday, September 25, 2010, 8pm
Cupid's Park Theatre, Korner's Folly, 413 South Main Street, Kernersville
The fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm are turned on their heads in this fast-paced, rollicking ride as two narrators and several actors attempt to combine all 209 stories ranging from classics like Snow White, Cinderella, and Hansel and Gretel to more bizarre, obscure stories like The Devil's Grandmother and The Girl Without Hands. A wild, free-form comedy with lots of audience participation and madcap fun.
Adults $19, Student/Senior (55+) $17

Carnivale
Saturday, September 25, 2010, 1pm
Elsewhere Artist Collaborative, 606 S. Elm St., Greensboro, NC 27401
A 3-floor Carnivale funfair and extravaganza, featuring new work and installations by artists from all over the world. Expect circus acts, fortune telling, cabaret theater, games, prizes, treats from Table 16, live music, and lots more spectacular surprises. To purchase tickets, visit www.elsewhereelsewhere.org and click on the Carnivale banner, come by in person, or email museum@elsewhereelsewhere.org.
$35/ticket. 1:00 - 5:00 PM (children and families welcome), 8:00 - 12:00 AM (adults only, please)

Farmington Fall Expo
Saturday, September 25, 2010, 9am – 3pm
Farmington Community Center, 1827 Farmington Road, Mocksville, NC 27028
The Second Annual Farmington Fall Expo - a benefit for the Farmington Public Playground Project. Shopping, food, live music, hayrides, crafts, and games for children provided by the Girl Scouts.

Maize Adventure
Saturday, September 25, 2010, 1 – 6pm
1615 Kersey Valley Road, High Point
Explore the Maize Adventure corn maze, pumpkin patch, gem dig, tram train, cow train, dinosaur discovery and giant jumping pillow. $3-$23. Ages 4 and under free for corn maze only.

All-A-Flutter Family Days
Saturday, September 25, 2010, 10am – 3pm
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm, 7850-B Clinard Farms Road, High Point, NC
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm will hold Family Days every Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 9. All ages can experience the magic of hand feeding a monarch butterfly with a one hour and 15 minute tour of the butterfly house and presentation. No reservations necessary. Adults, $6; children, $5. 336-454-5651.

Children's Storytime at Barnhill's Books
Saturday, September 25, 2010, 10:30am
Barnhill's Books * Wine * Art * Gifts, 811 Burke St, Winston-Salem NC 27101
Every Saturday, Barnhill's has a children's reading time scheduled for 10:30 and 1:30. Bring the kids to hear a story!

Deep River Region AACA Annual Car Show
Saturday, September 25, 2010, 11am
Shady Grove Wesleyan Church, 119 Bunker Hill Rd., Colfax, NC
Awards 3:00 PM AACA Classes, Orignal Classes, Modified / Street Rods-Top 25 Vehicles.Registration at Gate $20. Special Awards all Classes. Free to the Public.
Registration 8:00-11:00 AM, Show 11;00AM-3:00PM

Rock Laser Shows
Saturday, September 25, 2010, 7pm
SCIWorks, 400W. Hanes Mill Road, Winston-Salem, NC
Enjoy the sounds and the laser light show – in the spacious and comfortable SciWorks Planetarium! Seating is first come, first served. Tickets are $6 per person per show, or $5 per person, per show for two or more shows (same night). No refunds will be given. No advance ticket sales. Doors open at 6:30pm. Ticket purchase does not include access to museum galleries. All museum galleries and park will be closed.

Salem Baptist Christian School Clothing Consignment Sale
Saturday, September 25
8am-noon
*Select items 50% off today
429 South Broad Street
Winston-Salem, NC
725-6113

Sunday, September 26

All-A-Flutter Family Days
Sunday, September 26, 2010, 10am – 3pm
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm, 7850-B Clinard Farms Road, High Point, NC
All-A-Flutter Butterfly Farm will hold Family Days every Saturday and Sunday through Oct. 9. All ages can experience the magic of hand feeding a monarch butterfly with a one hour and 15 minute tour of the butterfly house and presentation. No reservations necessary. Adults, $6; children, $5.336-454-5651.

Scout Day
Sunday, September 26, 2010, 1 – 5pm
Children's Museum of Winston-Salem, 390 S. Liberty St. Winston-Salem
All scouts in uniforms (kids & adults) receive $2.00 off Museum admission.
LINK

The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon
Sunday, September 26, 2010, 2pm
Cupid's Park Theatre, Korner's Folly, 413 South Main Street, Kernersville
The fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm are turned on their heads in this fast-paced, rollicking ride as two narrators and several actors attempt to combine all 209 stories ranging from classics like Snow White, Cinderella, and Hansel and Gretel to more bizarre, obscure stories like The Devil's Grandmother and The Girl Without Hands. A wild, free-form comedy with lots of audience participation and madcap fun.
Adults $19, Student/Senior (55+) $17

Monday, September 27

Renée Fleming opens Winston-Salem Symphony’s 2010 – 2011 season
Monday, September 27, 2010, 7:30pm
Reynolds Memorial Auditorium, 301 N. Hawthorne Rd., Winston-Salem, NC 27106
Internationally-acclaimed soprano and Metropolitan Opera star Renée Fleming will open the Winston-Salem Symphony’s 2010 – 2011 season with a gala concert of opera arias, art songs and musical theatre favorites. Ms. Fleming’s program with the Winston-Salem Symphony will include selections from Gustav Mahler’s Rückert Lieder, Antonín Dvo?ák’s “Song to the Moon,” and arias from Giacomo Puccini’s La Bohème, John Kander, and more. In addition to accompanying Ms. Fleming, the Winston-Salem Symphony will perform works by Richard Strauss, Puccini, Richard Wagner, and Morton Gould. $30 - $125 and may be purchased at the Symphony Box Office (201 N. Broad Street), by calling 336.464.0145, or online at www.wssymphony.org.

Tuesday, September 28

Wednesday, September 29

Forsyth County Librarian Storytime
Wednesday, September 29, 2010, 11am
Children's Museum of Winston-Salem, 390 S. Liberty St, Winston-Salem
Join a Forsyth County Librarian as they share a favorite storybook.

Pink in the Park
Wednesday, September 29, 2010, 10:30am – 12:30pm
Center City Park, 200 North Elm Street, Greensboro, NC
Pink in the Park is a free, educational event for Triad residents to celebrate survivors and honor victims of breast cancer. We hope you’ll come out to enjoy the music and entertainment, win prizes and pick up informational materials from local organizations.

Tunes at Noon
Wednesday, September 29, 2010, 12 – 1:30pm
Center City Park, 200 North Elm Street, Greensboro, NC
Center City Park provides free live music during lunchtime. Bring your lunch, kick back and relax to some cool tunes with some of the Triad's best artists.

Thursday, September 30

High Point Beach Music Blast
Thursday, September 30, 2010, 5:30 – 8:30pm
Uptown High Point, 1525 North Main Street, High Point NC 27260
The Embers - Beach Music Concert series will run every Thursday from September 9 to September 30, 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, in uptown High Point at 1525 North Main Street. Take a trip to the beach Uptowne High Point, admission fee to benefit the Children's Home Society of North Carolina.

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
Thursday, September 30, 2010, 8pm
Odeon Theatre, Greensboro Coliseum Complex, 1921 W. Lee St., Greensboro, NC 27403
The competition is intense. The words are hilarious. Let the spelling begin! The show centers on a fictional spelling bee in Putnam County. Six wiz kids face off in the battle of their lives. Not only do they compete against each other, they will also compete against members of the audience. Three adults help adjudicate the proceedings: a nostalgic former spelling bee winner, a mildly insane Vice Principal and The Official Comfort Counselor completing his community service. A recent Broadway Tony-award winner and a lot of fun!!

The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon
Thursday, September 30, 2010, 8pm
Cupid's Park Theatre, Korner's Folly, 413 South Main Street, Kernersville
The fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm are turned on their heads in this fast-paced, rollicking ride as two narrators and several actors attempt to combine all 209 stories ranging from classics like Snow White, Cinderella, and Hansel and Gretel to more bizarre, obscure stories like The Devil's Grandmother and The Girl Without Hands. A wild, free-form comedy with lots of audience participation and madcap fun.
Adults $19, Student/Senior (55+) $17

2010 Pasta for Parenting Luncheon
Thursday, Sept. 30 from Noon to 1:30
Old Salem Visitor Center - Gray Auditorium
Imprints, a local non-profit organization serving area families, is excited to welcome Dr. Joey Skelton, MD as the keynote speaker. Dr. Skelton is the director of the Brenner FIT (Families in Training) Program at Brenners Children's Hospital. He will speak on Raising Healthy Eaters. Parents will have the opportunity to learn how they can help their young children develop healthy eating habits. Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased at www.imprintsforfamilies.org/pfp or by calling 336-722-6296 x205.

It's Almost Time for Preschool!

2010-08-31T05:00:00.003-04:00

By Guest Blogger Susan Stephens, Teacher at Knollwood Baptist Church Preschool

This past week, we have focused on Back-to-School posts for our Elementary and Middle School Children. Preschools in the Triad will be in full swing by next week, so if you have a little one who is gearing up for the big day, read our blog below from our loyal reader and Preschool teacher, Susan Stephens.

Well...it's that time of year again!! It doesn't matter if this is your first child to go to preschool or your third child, going to preschool can be both exciting and tearful all at the same time.

Read below to find some helpful tips for you and your preschooler as the start of the year gets closer:

1) Be sure to attend your child's Open House or Orientation with his or her teacher. Most of the time, this is scheduled as a one-on-one (or even a small group) time with the teacher and the assistant right in your child's classroom. The teachers typically want you to bring your child with you -- this gives both you and the child an opportunity to see their new classroom and get acquainted with all the new sights they will be seeing each day this year.

If your child's Open House or Orientation is a one-on-one opportunity, take this time to tell the teacher and assistant about your child. It is always best to be as honest as possible -- the teacher would rather you let her know ahead of time that Julie sometimes tends to bite other children now, so they can go ahead and be prepared. Believe me -- most teachers have seen most everything and nothing will come as much of a shock...so be honest and tell them all the great things about your child as well as any potential issues that might arise.

Finally, be mindful of your assigned time slot for your child's Open House or Orientation. The teachers have assigned these times so that they can spend equal time with all the parents and children, so please arrive on time and be aware of when your time slot is coming to a close.

2) Take your child over to the preschool and walk around before the first day of school. Go out on the playground and let them play. The more they are familiar with the preschool building and setting, the more comfortable they will be once preschool begins. Ask your child's teacher for a class list so you can make plans to invite some other classmates over to the preschool playground to play.

3) More than likely...there will be tears!! It doesn't matter if you are dropping off a 2-year-old or a 5-year-old, children will cry and parents will cry!! The teachers are ready and prepared for this and they are more than OK with you leaving your crying child with them. The longer you stay around, the harder it is to leave (for both you and your child!!) Make plans to say good-bye and leave them in the capable hands of their teacher. If it makes you feel better, most preschools will be glad for you to call back and have someone go check on your child to see if they are OK (and most often -- they are fine!!)

If your child's preschool offers a drop-off option, take advantage of it. Everyone understands walking your child in on the first day of school (I certainly plan to walk my 3rd grader and my kindergartner in on their first day!!), but after that, make plans to use the drop-off line. It may be hard at first and there may be a few tears and struggles, but like saying good-bye, it will quickly pass and you'll be so thankful that your child is gaining independence and growing up!!

4)Finally, if you do have any questions or concerns or just want to check in on your child with their teacher, be sure to e-mail them or give them a call. Generally speaking, drop-off and pick-up times are not always conducive for having a parent-teacher meeting. Every teacher would be love to speak to you about your child and address any concerns you might be having, but they can give you much more personal attention if they are not trying to load or unload children at the same time they are trying to talk to you. Just ask your child's teacher what method of communication they prefer and then drop them a message or give them a call.

Most of all, remember these wonderful days of preschool will be over before you know it!!! Have fun and your child will have fun as well!!

Transitioning into Kindergarten

2010-08-30T05:00:00.013-04:00

By Guest Blogger Kelly Sipe, Greensboro Day School

Robert Fulghum wrote "Everything I Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten." Take a moment to read all of the life skills that are taught in kindergarten. And, on top of all that, children are expected to grow academically, master fine motor skills, navigate through social dynamics and make friends. These children will also have a variety of specialist teachers (art, music, P.E., etc), in addition to their classroom teachers.

Kindergarten is as big as any major life transition. Here are some things you should expect, and things you can do to make the transition succesful for both you and your child...

If your child comes home from school and expresses anxiety and/or fatigue please know that this is normal. It typically takes children a full 4-6 weeks to acclimate themselves to their new routine. Quality teachers (and programs) pace their kindergarten curriculum with this in mind.

Over the next few weeks expect that you will communicate frequently with your child's teacher to make this a smooth transition for everyone. If your child's school doesn't already offer beginning of the year conferences, you can request one. As a kindergarten teacher, these early conferences are incredibly valuable. They allow for the assistant teacher and myself to get to know the families and learn about the child. It allows parents the opportunity to begin building a relationship with the teacher and to learn first hand what the teacher's expectations are.

It will also be important to attend your school's Parents' Night. The kindergarten year is full of wonder, excitement, growth, independence and friendship. It is one of the most important and special stages of your child's life. In helping to make the start of kindergarten as smooth as possible, here are a few things you can do at home:

-Limit after school activities (even play dates should be limited or postponed for the first few weeks).

-Maintain a regular and early bedtime.

-Eat a good breakfast and send healthy choices for morning snack (protein foods are perfect!).

-Allow quiet time every day .. time for you and your child to talk about the day without the distractions of television, video games, etc.

-Help your child to articulate his/her feelings so that they can better understand what they are feeling/experiencing.

-Give lots of hugs and encouragement ... remain positive, even if you are anxious and overwhelmed yourself (I say this because I admit to being an anxious Mom myself!).

-Connect with a first grade parent, who has made this kindergarten transition with their own child in the not so distant past.

-Although anxiety and fatigue is completely normal and expected, these feelings are very real to your child. Allow your child to walk through these emotions, with adult support, so he/she will gain the confidence and the necessary tools they will need to make kindergarten the wonderful journey it is intended to be!

Thanks, Kelly, for these great tips and suggestions! I know a lot of parents are looking for advice right now. These tips were great for me, too, as a mother of a first grader - KM

What are some things you have you done to help transition your kindergartner - either this year or in the past?

Smarty Sponsor: ICON Custom Builders

2010-08-29T05:00:00.001-04:00

By Rachel H

Word of mouth and testimonials seem to be the best way to learn about a business. I am sure you have seen their sign placed in yards throughout the Triad, but I wanted to give you a closer look at ICON Custom Builders today and emphasize that you cannot beat the client relationships that are fostered through this local business.

The first thing I want to share is a testimony from Mr. & Mrs. Douglas Merkel:

“Normally when a person considers the word “remodel”, he/she cringes with dread. Yet when my husband and I bought an older home in Winston-Salem, I had no qualms about renovating because I had decided whom to employ merely by monitoring the process on a house in our neighborhood. I vowed that if I ever had to renovate my living space, Icon Builders would do the work.

How did such blind faith transform into experiential success? One contractor with high ethics and an eye for perfection. Chuck Hicks, owner of Icon Builders, has a knowledgeable, conscientious, hard-working project manager and Chuck uses only reputable subcontractors. Crews were working consistently, day and night, and the politeness of everyone amazed me. Tasks were outlined for me and then performed as scheduled. If I changed my mind, Chuck was agreeably flexible. None of the suppliers for cabinets, bath hardware, flooring, or windows pressured me into expensive products. Every selection was geared toward my happiness and comfort level.

My husband and I are delighted with the results in our now “new” home. Within the time frame allotted, we have gone from shabby to chic, and have asked Chuck to be the contractor when we renovate our local townhouse. ”

ICON Builders can help you with almost any type of remodling, designing, building or renovating. Chuck Hicks and his team at ICON, specialize in transforming ordinary spaces into ones of beauty and functionality. You can see their passion and attention to detail in the photographs throughout this blog. According to one client, Larry Harrell, "Chuck has managed to provide the high quality work at a price which produces a very high value for the money you spend. Chuck is very professional in handling all of the business details arising from your contract. I found that my personal business interactions with Chuck led to a continuing friendship with a genuinely nice guy. All of Chuck’s employees and associates, arrived when they said they would, always cleaned up after themselves, were highly qualified for the tasks they were performing, and did so while being courteous, helpful, and cooperative."

Another client, Kathleen Kirk, was so impressed with the team at ICON, that she ended up joining their crew as a design consultant! Kathleen now works with clients to assist with selection in paint colors, granite, tile, lighting, and cabinets. Click here to read more about the ICON crew and their areas of specialty.

To see even more examples of projects by ICON Custom Builders, visit the website here. To Contact Chuck, call 336-306-9055 or email cbhicks@iconcustombuilders.com. If you have had the pleasure of working with ICON, please share your story below!

Smarty Mom: Parker White

2010-08-28T05:00:00.004-04:00

By Rachel H

I am happy to introduce you to Greensboro native, Parker White, today! Parker was born and raised here in the Triad and then moved to Washington DC for seven years as she worked in the Senate. Parker is now back in the Triad and stays busy by wearing many different hats!

Parker is first and foremost, wife to Robert, and mom to Avery (age 3) and Perrin (2 months). Parker currently stays at home with her children but has been keeping very busy with a new idea she started called BackPack Beginnings.

You will love learning about Parker and her new charity...

Parker, please tell us more about BackPack Beginnings.
BackPack Beginnings directly affects childhood hunger in our county by sending school aged children home with backpacks full of nutritious and kid-friendly food on the weekends during the school year. It is based on The BackPack Program, a national model developed by Feeding America and Second Harvest Food Bank that has been implemented by Second Harvest in many counties in North Carolina – but not in Guilford County. BackPack Beginnings partnered with Second Harvest Food Bank and Guilford Child Development and launched a BackPack program at Wiley Elementary and Shiloh Head Start in January of 2010, feeding 50 and 15 children respectively. This fall we will be in three schools, feeding 100 children total, and hope to branch out to more schools and children soon.

North Carolina ranks number 2 in the nation for the highest rate of food insecure children under the age of 5 (only behind Louisiana) and number 10 in the nation for the highest rate of food insecure children under the age of 18. According to Guilford County School's Nutrition Office, 52.8% of children in our school system are on free or reduced lunches. That is approximately 37,000 children. Childhood hunger causes health problems, creates educational challenges and leads to workforce and job readiness issues. By feeding the hungry children in this program, BackPack Beginnings hopes to eliminate many of these problems and take care of our kids. To learn more, you can visit www.backpackbeginnings.com/.

What gave you the idea to start this program?
When I moved back to Greensboro, I knew I wanted to do something that made a difference in the community. After having my first child, I also knew that I wanted to do something that benefited children. I had heard of other backpack programs across the nation and called Guilford County School's nutrition office to see if one was in place. I was shocked to hear that there was not an organized program in place here, so I reached out to Second Harvest Food Bank to get one started.

What are some tips you have for other moms who are starting new businesses/charities while raising a family?
Make sure you have the full support of your family. I couldn't do this if my husband wasn't there to help me out when I need to get things done or be out of the house.

How did life in DC compare to the Triad?
While DC will always be my favorite city, it was a better city for my husband and me when it was just the two of us. Greensboro is a better place for us as a family. The cost of living, lack of traffic and other benefits of a smaller city all contribute to a higher quality of life for our family.

What do you think is the best kept secret in the Triad?
Although it is not a secret to locals, those who don't live in the area would be surprised by how many kid friendly options there are here. From the Children's Museum to the Natural Science Center to ArtQuest and the parks, there is something for every age here.

What is the smartiest way you save money?
I have saved a lot of money at the grocery store using www.couponmom.com. I also save a lot of money on my children's clothes at consignment stores and sales.

What is your favorite family activity?
We love going to the UNC football games as a family. My daughter loves getting her face painted, watching the band and seeing the fireworks.

Favorite “me-time” activity?
Reading, girl's night out, quiet time on the couch with no distractions, catching up on sleep

Favorite place to eat dinner as a family?
Anything Mexican

Favorite date night spot?
When we want to splurge, 1618 is our favorite!

Favorite book you have read?
That is hard, because I am in a book club and have loved so many of the books I have read recently. If you are looking for good, easy reads, Emily Giffin's books are wonderful.

Best place to eat lunch with the kids?
Yum-Yums, Chick-Fil-A

Favorite place to shop for children’s clothes?
Bubbles. I find so many boutique brands there for a fraction of the price.

What is the best birthday party you have attended?
I have loved planning my daughter's birthday parties. I really get into it and try to be as creative as possible. I have found the website www.birthdaypartyideas.com to be extremely helpful when planning.

What is your favorite mom’s must have item for around the house?
I have a bag of $1 activities/crafts that I bought from the dollar store and Michaels, and my daughter can choose one to do each time I am nursing. They include flashcards, necklace kits, water color books, etc.

Mini-van or SUV?
SUV- We recently just purchased one off Ebay when we had our second child. It was a nerve-racking experience, but luckily everything worked out and we got a great price.

Favorite park in the Triad?
Johnson Park or Bog Garden

Favorite or most helpful blog you have read on Triad Smarty Pants thus far?
I love the day trip articles. We are always looking for different things to do on the weekends that aren't too far away.

Best thing about raising a family in the Triad?
Besides what I have mentioned in other answers, I love the proximity of the mountains, lakes, and beaches to the Triad.

I could not live without my...
list of things to do and calendar. I would be lost without them!

Parker, not only have you started a fabulous organization, but you are a wealth of information! I learned so many new things from your interview today and I hope our readers did, too!