Smarty Party Idea: William G. White, Jr. YMCA

By Katie M

As a loyal member of the William G. White, Jr. YMCA for nearly six years, I can personally assure you that any birthday party you book at this facility will be a party your child will cherish and remember. For years, the staff at this YMCA branch (775 West End Blvd in Winston-Salem) has made me feel like family each and every time I walk in their doors. The staff is outgoing, helpful and fun, and every employee who comes in contact with my children is exceptional with care and support.

If this is something I can expect every day, then imagine what you’ll experience if you book a personal birthday party here! You may have seen this facility on our birthday party directory. Well, we are now excited to help spread the word that the William G. White YMCA has an expanded selection of party formats and themes. Plus, mention Triad Smarty Pants when you book your party, and they will also give you 10% off your first party. Keep reading to get all the scoop!

When it comes to party ideas, there are few places that can give you the variation in formats and themes as the William G. White YMCA. All parties are for two hours and can be booked on Fridays, Saturdays or Sundays. Available hours vary so check to see what works best for you. Parties and prices are for up to 12 children. Additional children can be added for $3/child, and the party rooms can comfortable accommodate up to 20 guests. The YMCA does not provide food or beverages but has a refrigerator and freezer available. Food can also be ordered in.

Here are quick descriptions and fees for the kinds of parties you can book:

XRZone Party!
This is the newest addition to the YMCA’s party formats, and includes two hours of cutting edge fun for children ages 8 and older. Your child and his guests can spend one hour in the XRZone competing on virtual snowboards, racing bikes and playing interactive games, and the second hour can be spent in a private party room where everyone can enjoy cake, play games or make a craft. For an additional fee, children can experience a climbing wall too! Price: YMCA Facility members $200 (+$50 climbing wall); Non-members $250 (+$50 climbing wall).

Extravaganza Party!
The birthday child and friends can spend one hour in the Adventure Room all to themselves where they can climb, slide, tumble and more. Children need to be three-years-old and potty trained to enter the Adventure Room. The rest of the party can be spent in the private party room. Price: YMCA Facility Members: $150; Non-members $200.

Big Splash Party!
Reserve one hour in our pool and enjoy the rest of the party in a private party room. For this party, children are given a swim test by the lifeguard before they enter the pool. At least one adult must accompany every three children for parties with children under age five. Children ages 6-8 must be accompanied by at least two adults in the water for every 12 children. Children aged 9 and up must be accompanied by at least two adults on deck next to the pool. All children needing diapers must wear plastic-lined swim diapers or disposable swim diapers, and all guests must bring their own towels. Price: YMCA Facility Members: $150; Non-members $200.

Basketball Party!
Your child and his guests can enjoy one hour on the court all to themselves, and then one hour in a private party room. A dedicated – and enthusiastic - party host will be on-hand to lead the party through fun games and drills on the court. Price: YMCA Facility Members: $150; Non-members $200.

Bounce House Party!
One hour in the bounce house reserved just for party-goers + one hour in a private party room = fun, fun, fun! This party also comes with a dedicated party host to ensure kids are bouncing safely while leading the group through fun games. Price: YMCA Facility Members: $150; Non-members $200.

In addition to these great party formats, you can also choose special themes and colors to go along with your child’s party. These themes include: Classic Birthday (a colorful celebration of red, blue, yellow and green), Princess for a Day (a most glamorous party in pink, purple and white), Under the Sea (make a big splash with blue, green and aqua), Sports Package (have a ball in orange, black and white), and The Big Top (have a circus with fun colors like red, white and blue).

And if you have a different theme in mind, the YMCA may be able to accommodate your request. Just ask!

So, “Y not” have our party at the William G. White, Jr. YMCA? Like I said above, you have my personal smarty stamp of approval for this party pick! Call now to reserve your party (721-2100) and hurry because reservations fill quickly!

Have you booked a party here? Are you thinking about it? Let us know!

Smarties, don't forget to register for our Bonus Giveaway with "Send Out Cards". Everyone wins, so why not sign up? You could save more than $50 in greeting cards. This free offer ends Friday, April 30. Click here for all the details.

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We've Got Car Magnets!

By Rachel H

Would you like a one-of-a-kind Triad Smarty Pants magnet to sport on your car? We have a limited number that we are giving away for FREE! Starting right now, each of the places below has 20 car magnets waiting for the first 20 loyal TSP readers to pop in and ask for one! All you need to do is go to one of the locations listed below and ask for a Triad Smarty Pants magnet. Good luck!

Simply Meg's at Friendly Center in Greensboro
Evy's Gifts on Battleground on Greensboro
Evy's Gifts on Main Street in Kernersville
Jimmy John's Gourmet Sandwiches (Stratford location only!) in Winston-Salem (across from Thruway)

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Bonus Giveaway: Everyone Wins!!!!!!!!!!!

By Katie M

Yes, that’s right. Thanks to Send Out Cards and its offer to Triad Smarty Pants readers, everyone gets to be a winner with this latest giveaway. And with Mother’s Day just around the corner, the timing couldn’t be more perfect.

If you haven’t heard about Send Out Cards.com then take note. This site is somewhat like Netflix for Hallmark junkies. It’s an online store that houses thousands of greeting cards that you can select, customize and send for pennies. However, if you choose to participate in this giveaway, you will have the chance to send 10 FREE cards to friends and family over the next month. That equates to more than $50 in savings. All you need to do is log on to http://www.sendoutcards.com/CoachG and you’ll be immediately registered to begin.

Who doesn’t love staying in touch with friends and family? But who wants to spend close to $5 on a card plus postage - plus drive to a card shop, spend several minutes searching for the perfect card, and then physically mailing it? It’s a gesture that requires several steps. The beauty of the Send Out Cards system is that it simplifies the greeting card process. No stores, lines, no looking for stamps, no post office delivery, and no over-priced cards. What you gain is more time, less expensive cards, more creativity, and more time. You can’t beat that!

Send Out Cards has more than 15,000 greeting card options plus templates for you to create your own card. All you need to do is type in your greeting and hit send. Within a matter of days, your recipient will receive your letter in his or her mailbox!

“In this high-tech world where we are flooded with emails and text messages, we have quickly forgotten the impact of how someone feels when they receive a personalized note in the mail. That, of course, is the high-touch aspect of Send Out Cards, a real life greeting card arriving in the mail,” says Greg Giordano, Triad representative of Send Out Cards.

After going through the process myself (which took just a few minutes), I wanted to give you all a couple of smarty tips:

1. When you first log on to the site, you’ll see a rectangular box at the top of the site with a cute picture of Greg and his family. In that box is a button that says “Send Card.” Click that box to start.
2. Next, you’ll be asked to fill out a form to set up your free account. Please know that your information will not be shared with anyone else and your email will not be added to any Send Out Cards mailing list. You will, however, receive an email from Greg thanking you for your participation and asking if you have any questions.
3. After you fill out your information and click to continue, look for the bald guy in the black jacket at the bottom of your screen. He is actually the CEO of Send Out Cards :) And he can walk you through the entire process. I followed his instructions and it made the process a cinch.
4. If you decide to customize your card with a photo, it may take you a little longer than a few minutes if you are not super savvy with technology. But the process overall is still simple.
5. You do not need any type of promo code to get started. Once you fill out your account form, Greg can then track your account.

So, go ahead and sign up for your free account and start using Send Out Cards! And after you go through the process, let us know what you think!

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The Importance of a Good Night’s Sleep

By Guest Blogger, Lisa Witherspoon

Homework. Sports and extra-curricular activities. Family time. Parents’ work schedules. These are all important parts of out kids’ daily schedules. As you work out the logistics of all these activities, do you factor in the importance of a good night’s sleep???

How much sleep kids get has a direct impact on development, growth, and performance. Research shows that a lack of sleep can negatively affect a child’s behavior, alertness, temperament, and ability to learn. Children who regularly fail to get enough sleep perform poorly on attention and memory tests. These children are more irritable, often overreact emotionally, have trouble concentrating, and forget things easily. Children who are overly tired often wake frequently and are actually more restless during the night. Some children may even display hyperactive behaviors when they are sleep deprived.

So how much sleep is enough?? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics:
Children between 1-3 years of age need 10-13 hours of sleep per day.
Children between 3-10 years of age need 10-12 hours of sleep per day.
Children between 11-12 years of age need about 10 hours of sleep per day.
Teenagers need about 9 hours of sleep per day.

If your child is not getting the recommended amount of sleep, what can you do?? Here are some suggestions:

1.Stick to a routine. Find a routine that works for your family and do it the same way every night. This will help children prepare themselves for sleep and, hopefully, help everyone stick to a consistent bedtime.

2.Consider individual needs. The list above gives recommended amounts of sleep. Your child may need more or less than that, depending on his/her own personality and energy level. Watch for signs like irritability, lack of focus, and/or hyperactivity to determine if your child needs more sleep or not.

3.Reevaluate priorities – If your child is not getting enough sleep, you may need to make some difficult choices. Which is more important – her 7-8 pm dance class or her health and school performance??? Sit down as a family and write out your family’s daily/weekly schedule. Decide which activities are getting in the way of sleep and which ones are REALLY important.

4.Decide on a goal and work toward. If you determine that your son needs to go to bed an hour earlier every night in order to get enough sleep, move his current bedtime up 10-15 minutes per night until you reach your goal.

5.Know when to get professional help. If your child is having a problem, such as nightmares, bedwetting, or pain, that is interrupting his/her sleep regularly during the night, talk to your pediatrician.

Sleep is just as important to your child’s health as exercise and eating right, so make it a priority. You will most likely find that EVERYONE is happier, healthier, and more productive!

Information for this article was gathered from www.about.com.

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All for A Good Cause

By Rachel H

I have recently learned about a few inspiring stories and generous ideas going on in our area. I have fundraisers, charities, and events listed below taking place in all areas of the Triad. I know these stories will touch our readers and that you will want to become involved! The first event takes place tomorrow, and the rest are within the next month. The 1.1.11 mission will continue throughout the year. Please take some time to read these remarkable stories below and show your support where possible!

Warriors for Wells - As mentioned, this first event is tomorrow, Wednesday, April 21, 2010. You can go out to eat and raise money for The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at the same time! Plan to eat lunch, dinner or BOTH at The Loop Pizza Grill in W-S and 10% of the revenues all day will go to The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in honor of Wells Clark and the Warriors for Wells team! Wells Clark is a nine year old boy who was diagnosed at just three weeks old with Cystic Fibrosis. Wells demonstrates tremendous courage and hope as he fights daily against this life threatening disease. Wells stays active playing soccer, basketball and baseball, but this disease is still wreaking havoc on his young lungs.

There is currently NO CURE for Cystic Fibrosis and the median life expectancy is 37 years of age. Warriors for Wells was formed when Wells was six months old, and the team participated in the first Cystic Fibrosis Great Strides Walk to raise funds towards a cure for Cystic Fibrosis. Warriors for Wells will not stop the fight until the cure is found.

Please help spread the word! Visit The Loop tomorrow and be sure to tell the cashier you are there for the Warriors for Wells event so they can keep track of the donations. Visit the Warriors for Wells Facebook page here. You can also learn more about this year’s Great Strides Walk here, which takes place this Saturday!

America’s Most Wanted All-Star - On Oct. 7, 2009, Sgt. Mickey Hutchens of the Winston-Salem Police Department was shot in the face while he was backing up two officers who were doing a domestic violence warrant service.
Mickey died just five days later. During the domestic dispute, this man who shot Mickey, also shot Officer Daniel Clark. Although Daniel was wounded and knocked to the ground, he was able to return fire, killing the suspect. Many of you remember this incident and can agree that we may never know how many lives Daniel saved that day, because the suspect had already tried to enter the nearby Bojangles Restaurant. Thanks to these two officers, the public was kept safe.

Daniel Clark has been nominated for America's Most Wanted All Star. We would love for all of the Triad to help honor him by voting for him here. You can vote once a day until May 3rd. Wouldn’t it be wonderful for Daniel to get the recognition he deserves for all he has done to protect the public?



Drake Naylor Invitational - Drake Naylor was born on August 24, 2005. He has a rare chromosome abnormality which has left him deaf/blind and severally multi-handicapped. After realizing how many families were affected by different disabilities, Drake’s parents, Shane and Trish, wanted to help those who had helped them. In May of 2006, the Naylor family and Shane’s Sporting Clays decided to host the Drake Naylor Invitational, an event to help support the
Greensboro Cerebral Palsy Infant/Toddler Association housed at the Gateway School.

They had hoped to raise around $5,000, but at the end of the day, on May 27, 2006, they had raised almost $53,000!!! It showed everyone, including Drake, what a difference we can make TOGETHER. This year is the 5th Annual Drake Naylor Invitational. It will take place on May 29th. The event is held at Shane’s Sporting Clays and is held like a golf tournament, but instead you will be shooting clay targets! And for those who don't shoot, there will be lunch by Sagebrush (please reserve your seat) and a fab silent auction!!! You can learn more about the event here.


The 1-1-11 Mission - This is a worldwide campaign started by two women – Debby Yennaco and Carolyn Flaherty. We have 1 world, we are blessed with 1 life, you are 1 person, and 1 person can make 1 HUGE difference. YOU are instrumental to the mission. Together as 1 we will raise $1,000,000 for charity by 1-1-11.

The mission will be accomplished by selling 1,000,000 tee shirts for $11.11 each. The tee shirt looks great, as you can see, and is printed with water based inks on organic cotton grown to be friendly to our 1 world. You can purchase your mission shirt at www.1-1-11mission.com .

These ladies are so certain that this challenge will be successful that they are offering back to the members of our mission. The 111th person to purchase a tee shirt will receive the shirt for free. The 1,111 person to purchase will receive $111. The 11,111 person to purchase will receive $1,111. The 111,111 person to purchase will receive $11,111. If the goal is surpassed and sales reach 1,111,111 the purchaser of that shirt will receive $111,111. This is how they commit to make a difference in your 1 life and thank you for making 1 HUGE difference in lives around the world. Visit the website to read more about the charities that you will help out, along with personal stories from those who can directly benefit from this mission.

High Point Firefighters Association 5K Charity Run - The purpose of the High Point Firefighters Association Charity Run is to assist those who give of themselves selflessly. This is a way to support the people who put our lives before their own each and every day. We would love for you to visit this website to learn more about this event, take part in it, donate, or simply spread the word. This first year, they are supporting two different charities, the fire department and the police department. Both are all donation charities and both are tax deductible! The event takes place on May 8, 2010 - Rain or shine! 5K Run Start time at 08:30am, Entry Fee: $25.00, 1 Mile Fun Run Start time at 08:00 am - Until the day of the race $10.00.

Strollers for the Cure- Now you can get involved in the Race for the Cure event even if you have little ones in tow! Participants of the 11th Annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure can register to take part in a free event called Strollers for the Cure. The race will be held on Saturday, May 1, 2010, at Salem Academy and College. The start line will be at the Old Salem Visitor Center across from Old Salem in W-S. In case you missed our blog on Race for the Cure, you can find it here.

Infant/toddler t-shirts will be available for purchase the day of the race at the Strollers for the Cure tent. There will also be juices and kiddie food at the tent. Join in and decorate your stroller, because prizes will be given to the most creative and unique decorations. Decorations will also be available at the tent once you arrive. We hope some of our Smarty Mommas out there will choose to participate and show your children how you can make a difference! find out more at www.komennctriad.org.

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You Gave Us an Hour, and We Give You the Winners!

By Katie M

Congratulations to Leslie Morgan and Kelly Gunzenhauser. They are the two winners of our Give An Hour, Get An Hour contest!

As you'll remember, we picked our winners based on the submissions they sent us and not by random selection. While Leslie and Kelly sent out amazing suggestions, ideas and comments about Triad Smarty Pants, every submission we received was outstanding. We really appreciate the time everyone took to help with the site and for sending us such thoughtful emails. We can't wait to take your ideas and use them on our site! Read below to find out more about our winners!


Leslie and her husband, Rick, have two girs: Ellie, 7, and Abby, 4. Leslie found out about TSP from a friend, and says, "I love the sense of connection to cool moms and upscale events/retailers in my local community. The site is dynamic and the content is relevant. Thanks, Triad Smarty Pants!"


Kelly and her husband, Eric, have two boys: Casey, 5, and Reid, 3. She found out about TSP from Rachel H, and says this about the site, "My favorite thing about TSP is that there is really useful, practical information on there from REAL moms (and dads). I have actually implemented several cool ideas from the site, such as putting all of my kids' clothes for the week into a hanging organizer on Sunday night."

Way to go Leslie and Kelly! Leslie is getting ready to enjoy a spa treatment from Chevalrie Salon and Spa in High Point, and Kelly will get pampered at The Salons at Cicero in Winston-Salem. Enjoy it, ladies. It's well deserved. And thanks so much for your participation in our contest.

Thanks again to our local salons for their donations. Be sure to stop by and check them out! They were both referred to us by our loyal readers:

The Salons at Cicero
952 West 4th Street, Suite 101
Winston-Salem, NC 27101
Call Heather Kiser at 407-3683

Chevalrie Salon and Spa
3710 North Main Street
High Point, NC 27265-1892
889-3759

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Smarty Sponsor: Kathy Dollyhigh Photography

By Katie M

How many times have you literally pulled your hair out getting your child to smile, sit still or – at minimum - look at you when you are trying to get that perfect shot? We’ve all been there as moms and although we see it as frustrating, Kathy Dollyhigh of Kathy Dollyhigh Photography actually sees it as opportunity. In fact, she specializes in photographing children because they are uninhibited. She loves to let them be who they are without enforcing poses, and she thrives on the challenges that go along with capturing them in “the moment.” She especially loves capturing newborns in photos and the natural beauty that comes about. Well, we at TSP say, “Thank goodness for patient and talented photographers like Kathy,” and we thought you’d agree.


Based in Greensboro, Kathy has been in the photography business for more than 25 years. She started shooting weddings for friends, and with their encouragement, grew her business from there. Kathy is a member of the Professional Photographers of NC, and has been a full-time photographer since 1996. She is based in the Fisher Park neighborhood of GSO and specializes in capturing kids - from age 0 to teenager.

So what sets Kathy apart from other children photographers? She’s super laid-back and that shows in her work. She lets kids be kids and parents be parents, and in the end everyone is happy and the pictures turn out amazing! Isn’t that what we all strive for anyway?


Kathy’s style is definitely traditional. Her angles and lighting depict this, and she has the artistic flexibility to capture wonderful candid looks. And her assistants are ready to work with all temperaments of children. They don’t rely on a lot of toys and props, yet they have lots of tricks of their sleeves to promise a smooth session every time.

If you doubt she can sail through a session with your “active” child, then get this: she can actually include you in the sitting with your child and “cut” you out of the final photograph if you’d rather not be in it. Ok, that’s pretty cool! And she is always welcome to feedback and ideas during her session because she wants to be sure parents get what they are paying for.


Not only does she specialize in traditional shots, but Kathy always strives to give her clients what they want, whether that means unusual vignette shots with black and white film, or prints enhanced with light or heavy hand-tinted oils - just ask. All of these extra touches are done by real artists and not a computer which results in a natural look every time.

Apparently, we are not the only ones who think we discovered a gem with Kathy. Here’s what some of her clients have said:

“Kathy is a remarkable photographer with many years of experience working with the public. Her work exceeds any that I have seen elsewhere and her ways with those she photographs are exceptional. Her efforts to capture the personality and nature of her clients always come through in her work. I would recommend Kathy Dollyhigh Photography to any that want work of excellent quality and a good overall experience." - Emily Meyer

“I still LOVE, LOVE, LOVE the portrait of McKinley - it is just EXACTLY what I wanted and I look at it every day and think how much I enjoy it !!” - Sandy Wilborne

“Kathy Dollyhigh photographed our wedding, and I fell in love with her work! Since then, she has photographed all three of my children at those crucial developmental milestones. She has the knack of capturing each child’s unique personality. Kathy is a joy to work with!” - Lora Wentz


In addition to personal sittings with children, Kathy also does special events, business head shots, family photos, and restorations. She also offers a special monthly series for parents with repeat sessions, such as birth, three months, and six months - or for ages 1, 2, 6, 9, for example. It’s a great way to capture a similar timeless look time after time.

And beginning this May, Kathy is offering a Spring Special. From Tuesday, May 11 – Saturday, May 29, clients can get an outdoor session for just $85 which includes two 5x7 and two 4x5 prints of the same image. The session is for one child and $10 for each additional child. Full-lengths and close-ups of each individual and each group is taken. She does this every spring. Doesn’t get much better than that!

So please welcome our latest Smarty photographer, Kathy Dollyhigh. If we’ve convinced you to book a session with Kathy, please tell her Triad Smarty Pants sent you! Mention Triad Smarty Pants and you can get $25 off your regular portrait session if booked before August 31, 2010!

Let us know if you’ve worked with Kathy and how great your session was!

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Family Game Night

By Tracy S, CSP

Last week, my husband had to work through dinner one evening. As the kids and I were just finishing up our own fancy dinner of Mama Fu’s take out, my son Jake asked me “Mommy, can we play UNO tonight after Ryanne goes to bed?”

“I don’t think you can play with just two people, sweetie.”

“Sure you can! I play with my friend at afterschool all the time. When you play a skip, you just get to go again … and same with a reverse because it comes back to you. And when you play a ‘plus 2’, the other person picks two and you go again!”

“Alright, we’ll give it a try” I say skeptically. After all, he only just learned to play UNO 2 short months ago and can barely even hold all the cards in his little hands. This should be a quick game, I thought to myself.

It was quick all right - two hands into it: Jake - 0, Mom - 180!!! Apparently the kid not only learned how to play UNO, but some strategy as well!

We played for about an hour and he ended up beating my little smarty pants right off me! I appeared to be upset for his benefit, but deep down inside, I was thrilled!

We are finally turning the corner of FUN family game nights! No more Candy Land or Chutes and Ladders (or just Ladders in my husband’s case). We have finally arrived at some REAL games. I remember so often growing up, clearing the dinner table and immediately launching into a heated game of Aggravation … or the marathon Monopoly games on a rainy Saturday afternoon. What a fun family bonding experience. And a great alternative to TV watching!!!

We’ve slowing been expanding our game library - here are a few of our favorites thus far:

Blokus
UNO
Go Fish
Sorry
Sorry Sliders (kind of like curling for any of you fellow olympic junkies)
Connect Four (I actually can hear the sweet sounds of Matt and Jake playing as I type)
Rush Hour (this is actually a one-person game, but is GREAT for developing thinking skills and its fun to pass back and forth, challenging one another with various set ups)
Othello
Bulls-eye Ball (similar to a miniature Skee Ball game)
Zingo (this is a game for smaller kids, but wanted to include it because its such a great one)

Help us build out our game cabinet. What are some of your family faves? Share some of your fun family game night stories too. Happy game night!

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Smarty Mom: Allison McBride

By Rachel H

I am so happy to introduce Allison to you today. Allison works full-time at Wake Forest Health Sciences and is involved in teaching at the medical center both in medical student education and training pediatric and emergency medicine residents. She is a Pediatric Hospitalist and Pediatric Emergency Medicine doctor. She was nominated today by the mother of one of her patients, Bennett Martin. Allison knows that she is the doctor that you hope your kids will never need, but she hopes to make your experience smoother for parents and children alike. Deborah Martin was so touched by the care given to her son, Bennett, by Dr. McBride and she wanted everyone to know that this woman is not only a fabulous doctor, but a “smarty” mom as well.

Allison is married to Ed, and they have lived in the Triad since 2005 after moving from Nashville, TN. They have two children, Patrick(6) and Andrew(3). Allison is a native of Asheville, NC and still enjoys spending time in the mountains, hiking and going for picnics. She has loved taking the boys to some of her favorite spots in the mountains and on the coast as well. Her favorite activity is sailing! With her role in the Pediatric Emergency Room at Brenner, she is also a big advocate of patient safety, and recently submitted an article for publication that discusses the dangers of ATV's for kids, and North Carolina's recent laws to protect children. The article will be published later this year.

Let’s get to know Allison …

How are you able to balance your career and home life?
My husband and I balance our careers and family life by coordinating our schedules. We have found it so important to plan ahead, literally laying out our calendars and making sure to minimize the time that both of us are away from home. I have to say I have been blessed that work has been sensitive to family as well and my schedule has some flexibility to it.

What tips do you have for other working moms in your position?
When I became a mom, a co-worker told me to "accept chaos" (especially when I had my second child) and learn to let things go. That advice has served me well, though it took some practice. I keep a "to-do" list that keeps things like helping my kids remember show-and-tell as well as meetings and doctors appointments. I hate to say it by having my calendar and to-do list on my “smart” phone has helped as well.

Being in your line of work, do you think it makes you more protective or more laid-back about dangerous situations your children put themselves in?
I get asked that a lot and I think I am more laid back about illnesses in general, but I have seen some horrible things that most parents are fortunate enough not to even consider. Because of this, I have to remind myself about not being over-protective with my boys. Being active boys, I suspect we will have a broken bone and a few stitches as they grow up, but I try to keep them from truly hazardous activities and try to teach them to make smart decisions.

What has been the most rewarding part of your job?
It is hard to pick just one area, since my job encompasses so many. In patient care, I enjoy satisfying parents' concerns and fears while making their children the smiling happy children they should be. I do love teaching, and there is no greater reward than "paying it forward," recruiting great people into medicine and specifically pediatrics.

What is your favorite family activity?
We enjoy playing all sorts of games together, both outside sports activities and board and card games.

What is the smartiest way you save money?
Making coffee at home (rather than spending $4 a day) and packing meals for work and school are two of the easier ones. We are blessed with hand-me-downs from cousins which is wonderful too! We have also learned that “going green” can save money too –like using a re-usable container for drinks rather than buying a bottled water for example.

Favorite “me-time” activity?
Being a mom makes “me-time” even more precious, doesn’t it? I have to remind myself to take time for myself and am always grateful when I do. I enjoy reading (fiction), going for walks, talking to friends, etc.

Favorite place to eat dinner as a family?
River Birch Lodge

Favorite date night spot?
Christopher's

Favorite book you have read?
Eat, Pray, Love; The Help; Change of Heart; Love (Toni Morrison) and Sea Glass (Anita Shreve) to name a few --- clearly joining the library was a money saver for me, too!

Best place to eat lunch with the kids?
Twin City Diner

Favorite place to shop for children’s clothes?
Target; Land's End(Sears)

What is your favorite mom’s must have item for around the house?
Dustbuster

Mini-van or SUV?
Cross-over

Favorite park in the Triad?
Fourth of July Park in Kernersville

Favorite or most helpful blog you have read on Triad Smarty Pants thus far?
Summer Camp directory - I can never keep that straight and tend to think about it too late. Blogs about family friendly (and money-saving) restaurants and activities always catch my attention.

Best thing about raising a family in the Triad?
We love the Triad because everything we need and want to do is right here but still with a good small town friendliness.

I could not live without my... family.

It is not hard to see why Deborah nominated you as a Smarty Mom, Allison! We thank you for your answers!

If you want to nominate a mom or dad to be featured on our site, email us at triadsmartypants@gmail.com!

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Smarty Sponsor: Jewelry XOX

By Beth Mack, Owner of Jewelry XOX

Do you ever struggle with being good to yourself, indulging now and then, finding the right necklace, ordering gifts and just keeping it all together?

I know how you feel! As a busy mom, I’m always looking for ways to balance my life while keeping it fun. Starting my own business seemed like a good solution. I can be at my computer while my boys are at school and still be available to run carpool and help with homework. The flexibility is priceless.

Having worked in the financial services industry and more recently at an ad agency, I was ready for a change. I wanted to use my marketing background in a new way. So I thought about what I had passion for and came up with an online jewelry store – Jewelry XOX.

My idea was to make women look and feel great, while at the same time simplifying their lives. When jewelry is affordable, dressing up an outfit doesn’t have to break the bank or make you feel guilty. Reasonable prices make it easy for you to treat yourself and create exciting looks. And who doesn’t feel good wearing a sparkling new necklace or bracelet?


Sourcing earrings, necklaces and bracelets for Jewelry XOX has been fun. I look for high-quality jewelry that I love while trying to keep prices under $25. Thinking about a variety of taste, I actually buy jewelry with my friends and family members in mind. Some like large funky earrings, while others prefer a colorful glass necklace. Some are contemporary, beachy, sassy and classic – but all are fun!

My plan is to keep the site fresh, so please check back often. I’d love your input about what else you’d liked to see. And I’m happy to accommodate special requests. A friend of mine just asked if I could find a moose necklace for a teacher gift. Other friends have requested gold bridal jewelry and certain size hoop earrings. I’m always happy to see what I can find.



Since the jewelry comes in a complimentary silver box with a fuchsia ribbon, it’s gift ready. Whether shopping for a friend, sister, mother or daughter, the website offers a variety of options that can be delivered to you or the recipient. You can even include a handwritten note along with your order. (Free deliveries can be arranged in the Winston-Salem area.)

Several of our earrings are suitable for young girls and I plan to expand the children’s line. Jewelry can be a very special gift for girls and their moms will appreciate that it’s real sterling silver. Plus, it can cost less than a toy they may not like a month from now. Not to mention that it’s all wrapped and ready to go.


Of course Mother’s Day is coming up! So if your mom or mother-in-law likes sterling silver, you’re sure to find a necklace or pair of earrings at a great price. I’m also running a special – a free $15 (or less) necklace, earrings, bracelet or ring for you, when you spend $50 or more on mom. Choose from one of thirty $15 items as your selection. Just enter the free item you want in the comment box at check out. You can also take advantage of this offer at the Launch Party (see below for details.)

While on the site, you can also create your own Wish List. Then your generous family members can go into your account and purchase what you want! I know all the deserving moms will be happy that someone cares enough to get her the perfect present.

The beauty of an online store is you can click away whenever the urge strikes from anywhere in the country. Shipping is fast and convenient. The site is simple to use, secure and offers a 30-day money back guarantee. I’d like the online process to be as enjoyable as receiving, wearing and sharing the jewelry.


I invite you to see the jewelry for yourself at the Jewelry XOX Launch Party. It will be held on both Thursday, April 29 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. and Friday, April 30 from 9:00-11:00 a.m. in the Arbor Run Clubhouse at 255 Fairhaven Road in Lewisville. Food, drinks, giveaways, Mother’s Day special and lots of fun!

Of course, you can visit us online anytime at www.JewelryXOX.com. Please fan us on Facebook and take advantage of fun tips and giveaways.

I hope you’ll treat yourself and others often! Have fun, indulge yourself and find cute gifts at Jewelry XOX. I've also included tips below on how to clean your new jewelry!

Tips for Cleaning and Taking Care of Jewelry

- If your sterling silver jewelry becomes tarnished, it can easily be restored by washing it with warm water and mild soap, rinsing it and thoroughly drying it with a fine soft cloth. Soaking is discouraged.

- Always take your sterling silver jewelry off before applying suntan lotion, skin creams, and swimming in chlorinated or salt water. Never use tissues or hard brushes, including toothbrushes, when cleaning or polishing your sterling silver, as they will leave scratch marks. This is especially important if there are gemstones such as pearls mounted into your jewelry.

- Never wear your sterling silver jewelry when working with detergents, bleaches, ammonia or alcohols; these chemicals will cause discoloration, damage and loosen any gemstones. Never use an ultrasonic cleaner, ammonia or any chemical solution to clean opaque gemstones, such as turquoise, malachite, onyx, lapis lazuli and opals. They are porous gemstones and may absorb chemicals, which build up inside the stone and cause discoloration. Simply wipe them gently with a moist soft cloth until clean.

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Favorite Photographers Directory

By Rachel H

We are proud to bring you another Smarty Directory, that we hope will make a mom's life a little simpler. Each photographer below is personally endorsed by one of us on the TSP team, or a friend who has shared their incredible photos with us. We love each of these photographers because their work is breath-taking, yet they each have their own style and will bring a unique twist to your session.

Keep an eye out on our Facebook page for specials offered by these photographers and check this directory as well as their individual websites frequently, as specials will be posted there as well. Websites can be found by clicking on the photographer name or logo.

A picture is worth a thousand words ... maybe ten thousand when it involves a child ...

Andrea Halsey Photography
Our cottage studio is located on State Street in Greensboro where we provide a custom experience from consultation to the final presentation of elegantly designed pieces for your home. We offer both Premium and Petite sessions every month including Grow With Me plans from newborn to one year. We love to treat our clients with only the best as the Triad's original boutique studio.
414 State Street
Greensboro, NC
336 280 4625






Ardmore Photography
Do you remember holding your sleeping newborn and counting her tiny toes? Or laughing with your family, the afternoon you were finally all together? As a mom, I cherish these memories, and as a photographer, I am able to capture these moments that will be treasured for a lifetime. Ardmore Photography sessions are a relaxed and fun way to preserve those memories. It would be a privilege for me to photograph those special seasons of life that often passes by too quickly.
Sarah Hahne
336.408.4305
sarah@ardmorephotography.com

Triad Smarty Pants Special: One set of FREE birth announcements for newborn sessions booked during the month of August. Newborns are best photographed within the first 10 days of life, so its never too early in your pregnancy to schedule a session!









Evie Curley Photography
Silly smiles and serious faces. Grins, giggles, and tender moments. These are just a few of the things you will experience at your session with Evie Curley Photography. Your family will come away with portraits that are real, emotive, and exude your personality! While I love to shoot on-location, I also have a studio in Downtown Greensboro where we can meet and hold your session if you prefer. You may also come by and check out the variety of products I have to offer. So don't wait, call today and schedule your session. Let me show you what it's like when your life and my art combine!
108 West McGee Street
Greensboro, NC 27401
336-285-8341
evie@eviecurleyphotography.com

HOLIDAY SPECIAL: Holiday Mini Sessions are available to Triad Smarty Pants folks for $195. Regularly $250! Visit this link for details. No Holiday Sessions will be booked after November 14th. You must mention Triad Smarty Pants when booking to receive the discount!









Nicole Nelson Photography
Sessions are available on-location throughout the Triad or in our Clemmons studio. They are always fun and relaxed and are never rushed. I have several portrait and print packages, a la carte prints and beautiful boutique products available. Sessions are available by appointment only and can be scheduled weekdays, evenings and on weekends. I feel so fortunate to do what I love everyday, whether it be photographing my three little ones or someone I just met. I know that you will love the genuine expressions that I will capture!
nicole@nicolenelsonphoto.com
336.778.1072 office
336.575.1635 cell

Holiday Pre-Booking Special: Contact Nicole by September 12th and pre-book a holiday session to receive a $50 print credit AND 25 5x7 holiday cards! Holiday sessions must be completed by November 20th. Session fee is due within one week after booking to secure date and time. Sessions can be on-location or in the studio. Watch our blog and Facebook page for our upcoming mini sessions!

**Nicole will have a booth at the Great NC Beerfest at Tanglewood on August 28th and is giving away two tickets to it (no purchase necessary). Visit this link for details: http://nicolenelsonphotography.blogspot.com/.







Whitebox Kids
Photographing kids and families is our absolute most favorite thing in the whole world (other thank long vacations in mexico and chocolate cake)! We work with you to come up with a fabulous location and a killer wardrobe for your whitebox photoshoot. We promise that you'll have a good time and you'll have the coolest photos on the block!
peace, love & pictures,
sara & mel, photographers
maureen, studio manager
info@whiteboxkids.com

TSP special: $50 off your session fee if you mention Triad Smarty Pants!











Zoe Zen Photography
I am a natural light photographer. I fell in love with the importance of capturing MOMENTS of playfulness and curiousity with my first daughter Katie. I believe that pictures are priceless memories and I specialize in capturing these playful moments when a child's true spirit shines through. I love to focus on natural light by taking candid, urban & colorful photos that will always be unique. Photographs can be taken at your home, park, garden or the location of your choice. I serve the entire Triad Area.
Cell :336.473.4736
zoe@zoezenphotography.com

Fall Mini Sessions: We will offer four 30 minute mini photo sessionson specific location in Winston Salem & Greensboro. Book a Mini Session by Aug 31st and receive an 8x10 gift print. Limited spaces only. >Click here for more info.

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