Shopping for a Stroller? Read This!

By Katie M

Let me start out by saying, “Don’t do what I did!” When I had my first child almost six years ago, I did not put any emphasis on buying a good stroller. I don’t think I even registered for one, and despite the fact that we received enough gift cards from Babies R’ Us to more than pay for a great stroller, we opted to use that money towards other things we thought were more important (probably diapers!).

Buying a stroller is an overwhelming process, to say the least. There are so many considerations, styles, prices, brands, and features that your head will spin! If you are trying to keep your research simple, I would suggest starting your search with the Baby Bargains book, www.consumerreports.org, and by simply talking to professionals at stores like Babies R’ Us. If money is not a concern, you can always check out the latest models at trendy baby boutiques too.

The following is my story which offers some suggested brands and styles, and some to steer clear of. Regardless, hopefully my decisions – and lack of – will better help you in your stroller search.

Like I mentioned above, I did little research on strollers before Emily was born. I did look at some “travel systems” because it seemed like everyone I knew had one. But I never thought they looked user-friendly and I am not the kind of person who deals well with lots of buttons, snaps and instructions when I need something to work quickly and often. As luck would have it, Jen P (of Charlotte Smarty Pants) let me borrow her Baby Trend Snap N’ Go stroller the whole time Emily was in her infant car seat. The Snap N’ Go (or similar model like the Graco SnugRider), in my humble opinion, should be on the top of every new mom’s must-have lists. Not only are these “frames” super inexpensive (between $50 and $60), but they’re incredibly light, and a cinch to pop open, fold up and put in the back of your car. They also have plenty of room below for storage, and some even come with cup holders for mom!

Then when Emily grew out of the Snap ‘N Go, my husband’s sister passed down her Maclaren stroller which, to me, was just a glorified umbrella stroller. Again it didn’t matter to me at the time because as new parents adjusting to living on one salary, we were both immensely grateful not to have to invest in a new stroller. So we stuck with the Maclaren.

However, not getting a more functional stroller was a huge mistake on my part. Don’t get me wrong, Maclaren is a great brand. As far as convenience, it was the ticket. Super light. Easy to fold and unfold. Not bulky at all in the back of a car. But the stroller we had wasn’t suited for what we needed it for. It was better for quick trips with the baby or as a back-up stroller when traveling (it works great in aiports!). On top of that, it had no tray for sippee cups or finger foods. And for some reason, our stroller had no storage. None, zip. Not sure if the lack of the tray and storage bin was because it was an old model, or a result of it being a hand-me-down. (The models on its web site look much more functional than what I had).

But the worst part of our stroller: Emily was constantly in the reclined position and I couldn’t adjust it otherwise. So as a result, she never became a “stroller baby” – something that drove me – and my mom – crazy because it was impossible to take her shopping – or anywhere in a stroller – for more than 15 minutes.

Then my son came along. He too used a Snap ‘N Go, and then we moved both kids into a Joovy Caboose stroller - our mode of transport for nearly two years. I think the tandem model is a novel idea, however, I’m not sure I’m sold on Joovy. Maybe it’s just my stroller, but more often than not its wheels are IMPOSSIBLE to maneuver.

So what should you consider when buying a stroller? Obviously don’t follow my steps! According to Consumer Reports.org, you should consider the following:

1. Select the stroller yourself. Only you know what will work for you, and what you feel comfortable with.

2. Know your lifestyle, and use that as a guide. Obviously if you live in a busy city, you'll need a stroller that folds quickly and is compact. Here in the Triad, you could probably go for a bigger stroller. Or if you’re athletic, you might want to consider a jogging or all-terrain stroller.

3. Don’t go by price alone. Lots of variables go into the price and you need to determine what’s important to you first, then consider the price. Bigger-ticket strollers might have more amenities than lower priced models, but those less expensive strollers may serve you just as well. The average price of a good-quality stroller starts at about $250.

4. Take it for a test drive. Even if you plan to buy online, find the model in a local store and take it for a spin. Compare maneuverability and ease of use. Make sure the height is suitable for you – and your spouse. Give it a jiggle and make sure the frame feels solid.

5. Take your baby’s age into consideration. Remember newborns can't sit up until about six months old, so be sure the stroller reclines for babies of this age.

6. Check certification. Make sure the certification sticker shows that the stroller meets the minimum requirements of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) voluntary standard, and that its manufacturer takes part in the certification program administered by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA). Companies that are certified are: Baby Trend, Britax, Bugaboo, Delta Enterprise, Dorel Juvenile Group, Evenflo, Go-Go Babyz, Graco, Hauck Fun for Kids, J. Mason, Joovy, Kolcraft, Maclaren, Mia Moda, and Peg-Pérego.

7. Evaluate the warranties and return policies. Your best bet is to purchase the stroller from a store, catalog, or web site that offers a 100 percent satisfaction guarantee.

And what are the hot sellers? According to the latest Baby Bargain book, the following are their favorite picks:

Mall Crawlers
Baby Trend Snap N’ Go ($60) or
Graco SnugRider ($60)

Travel Systems
The authors actually advise against these models, but if pushed they recommend Chicco Cortina ($300)

Second Strollers
Evenflo X-Sport Plus ($50) or
Chicco C6 - also known as Capri ($65)or
the Maclaren Volo ($100 - $130)

High-end picks
Baby Jogger City Mini ($230)
or Maclaren Techno XLR ($350)

*Baby Bargain also gives picks for other types of strollers, including urban jungle, green acre, exercise, and double strollers.

I hope this information helps. Let us know what your favorite stroller is, and why!

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The Amazing Sense of Smell

By Rachel H

I picked up my daughter’s Strawberry Shortcake doll the other day and it immediately took me back to my childhood. That strawberry smell (that actually smells nothing like strawberries) is embedded in my brain as a reminder of childhood happiness.

It is amazing how a simple smell can transport you to specific time and place and can quickly give you that warm feeling of comfort. I think it is so important to teach our kids how to literally “stop and smell the roses!” My mom always picked Honeysuckle with us and let us taste it. Even to this day as I am walking past a Honeysuckle bush, it reminds me of my childhood and brings a smile to my face.

The other day I picked up my kids from a birthday party at a gymnasium, and as soon as I opened the door I was taken back to my days as a baton twirler. (Don’t laugh at me for being a baton twirler!) There is a distinct smell to those dance studios and gyms, and I told my kids to stop and smell. Of course they thought I was weirdo and my daughter proclaimed that it was stinky, but they’ll see what I’m talking about one day!

Speaking of baton twirling, I still cannot smell Aqua Net hairspray without thinking of my days in elementary school when we would have baton competitions. I think there was a permanent cloud of Aqua Net stuck in the air in the changing rooms, and I can’t help but laugh when I smell it.

My grandmother lived across the street from her church in Pennsylvania, and we always went with her to light candles in memory of relatives who had passed away. There was a certain smell when we entered that old stone church and every once in a while I smell that same scent here as I enter my own church. It automatically transports me back to a time where I would kneel next to my Nana and watch her light candles in prayer.

In fifth grade I wrote a report on dolls. We were required to make index card notes from our reference books. I think I worked on this for a full month. I used a blue Bic erasable pen to take notes, and doggone it if I don’t think of my report on dolls every time I use one of those!

We go through Chapstick like crazy in this house. My daughter always asks to buy the pink, but it is standard that we have to buy the black. Why? My dad used black Chapstick every day growing up. I can still picture the little spot on our countertop where he kept it, and I love, love, love that smell.

Lever 2000 soap will always be a reminder of 2nd floor Eggers dorm at ASU. My mom had bought me enough soap to last three years when she sent me off to college, and it was Lever 2000. I cannot smell that clean scent without thinking of my freshman year of college as we sang songs while showering on the hall in our dorm and got ready for a night out in Boone!

Remember scratch and sniff stickers? My mom saved my sticker collection from my childhood days. We found it a few months ago and I soon as I opened the book that overwhelming smell of root beer floats and bananas came rushing back to me. I had my kids scratch and sniff every single sticker in that album and they giggled with each one.

Then there are the certain smells that you can’t describe, but they touch your heart immediately. Like the smell when I open my grandmother’s old hutch that now holds all my china. Or the smell of the asphalt when it starts raining on a sunny day. Or the way my kids smell when they come in from playing outside. Or that smell of a baby’s nursery. (minus the diaper pail!) And of course the smell of a campfire or a charcoal grill.

Homemade pasta sauce – my Italian grandmother, oil-popped popcorn – my mom, Red Door perfume – my BFF Kathleen, stale beer – games of beerpong in my husband’s apartment in college, Banana Boat after-sun lotion – highschool spring break, freshly cut grass – my dad’s impeccable lawn we had while growing up, birch beer – my Poppop Hess, dark stone alleyways – my grandmother’s basement, Abercrombie & Fitch Cologne – the years of dating my husband, any Aveda products – my sister … my list goes on and on.

The holidays are coming up, and now more than ever I am going to remind my children to smell all those glorious holiday smells and delight in the comfort they each bring. I would love to hear what memories our readers have from your amazing sense of smell.

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Our Winner of the Zoe Zen Photography Giveaway

Congratulations to Jessica Robb! Her name was chosen from our Random Number Website, and she is the winner of a $250 Zoe Zen Photgraphy package! Zoe Zen's photos are so unique and we are jealous that Jessica's family will soon get to experience photos with Zoe!

Jessica is Married to Julian and they live in Winston-Salem with their children, Ellie (2) and Liam (7 months). Jessica has been a TSP reader since we launched last December and says the thing she likes best is learning new things from other moms.

We are happy to give you these winnings and can't wait to see your finished photos! Congratulations!

Update: Jessica met with Zoe and had a FANTASTIC photo session! Check out some of the best shots here!

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Smarty Book: The Blessing of a Skinned Knee

By Jenny D, Charlotte Smarty Pants

I've never been one to read parenting books. There's really no reason other than I rarely find the time to read. But I just finished reading a wonderful book called, The Blessing of a Skinned Knee. It was recommended to the parents of my daughter's preschool from the director. She mentioned it as a good common sense parenting book, and I agree.

This book is written by Wendy Mogel, Phd. who uses "Jewish teachings to raise self-reliant children." She gives guidance on how to raise self-disciplined, appreciative and resourceful children. She even spends a chapter on how to turn your children's worst traits into their greatest attributes. But what I enjoyed most was her ability to focus on everyday parenting problems.

I found the book to be reassuring of my parenting in some ways, but it also made me rethink how I do other things. I appreciated her perspective on the importance of family. The fact that children are a part of the family unit, and not our sole focus. She reminds us that it is our job as parents to raise self-reliant children, which can be difficult because we want our children to need and depend on us as mothers. She encourages parents to let their children be responsible for their own homework, not to over-stimulate them with too many activities and find time for your family to enjoy each other.

Although I am a Christian, I learned quite a bit about Jewish practices and traditions that can be valuable for parenting. Her insights can easily apply to our household and align with our family's lifestyle. I highly recommend this read to anyone who wants to "touch up" on their parenting skills.

Speaking of skinned knees, my eleven month old is up and walking. I can't believe it. How did this happen so quickly? What happened to my baby that I could plop down on the floor while I picked up the house? I have to admit that she looks adorable walking around like Frankenstein and then quickly plopping on her backside!

But back to the review; please let us know if anyone has any other books that you would recommend.

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Smarty Mom: Jenny Harris

By Rachel H

I am happy to introduce you to Smarty Mom, Jenny Harris. Jenny was nominated by her friend Deborah who said, “ I have always thought that a true friend expresses love by caring about you first, and that is exactly what Jenny Harris does. She has a kind and gentle temperament that soothes your soul. She is a wonderful wife and mother and one that I look to for advice about numerous topics. She is the master of juggling four schedules, while still finding time for herself and her husband. Her warm smile has lifted me and many others in both hard and happy times. A Smarty Mom is she!”

What a wonderful introduction! Jenny and her husband, Jason, have lived in High Point for 14 years. They have four children; Caroline, 10; Lindsay 8; Sarah Parker 6; and Jace 4. Jason grew up in High Point and Jenny moved here from Durham after getting married. Jenny was a middle school teacher for 4 years until she had Caroline. Since then, she has stayed at home and enjoys volunteering at her childrens' schools.

Her interests are spending time with friends and family, pilates, exercising, Bible study, traveling with her husband and family, and reading (when she gets the chance). She also completed a sprint triathlon last summer and is currently learning to play tennis.

Here’s Jenny!

You have four children ages 4 – 10. What is your best tip for moms with larger families, like your own?
My best tip for large families is to try and get your week organized before it takes control of you. My best weeks are when I have planned what we’ll have for dinner every night and try to do one big grocery store trip at the beginning of the week. I also try to organize my children’s extracurricular activities by keeping a bag for each activity filled with all the supplies/shoes/balls/etc. they will need. Those bags stay near the door so we are ready to go!

Having taught middle school, what is one thing you learned from that experience that you will be able to implement now that your children are getting close to the teenage years?
A lot of people look at me like I am crazy when I say I love middle schoolers, but I think they are so unique and full of energy. They are truly searching for who they are and trying to figure out where they fit in this big world. As my children near this age (I still can’t believe I have a 10 year old!), I will try to remember how confusing it can be for them. The world is telling them to grow up, and yet they are still silly and innocent. I think a way to make those years less awkward and more fulfilling is to give middle schoolers opportunities to serve others. They have so many talents that they are just beginning to realize. It is important that parents find ways their middle schoolers can develop and use those talents to serve others.

How are you able to juggle not only your own activities, but those of your children as well?
I am thankful that even my little one goes to preschool 3 days a week. I know that if I am going to go shopping or work out, it has to be done by 12. If not, I will have some great little helpers tagging along. As far as juggling my children’s activities, I couldn’t survive without my calendar. This year, we are lucky that all of our activities are about 5 minutes from home. That quick drive to and from dance, soccer, or horseback riding makes a world of difference.

What is the smartiest way you save money?
I love shopping sales and getting great deals. The creative container sale is a favorite of mine. I also love the Scholastic Warehouse sale that takes place 2 times a year. I stock up on books for my family as well as for gifts.

What is your favorite family activity?
My favorite family activity is to take a trip to the beach or mountains. We get so excited about packing up and getting new movies to watch on the way. On Friday nights, we also like moving the furniture in our den out of the way and spreading out blankets and pillows. We make a huge “palet,” big enough for everyone to lay on. Then, we watch a new movie and eat Milk Duds. We also enjoy taking walks with our dog, Bailey on the Greenway.

Favorite “me-time” activity?
My favorite me-time activity is to get up early before anyone else, take my coffee out to our screened in porch and spend time reading, praying, and reflecting. When I start my days like that, it makes a huge difference in my attitude.

Favorite place to eat dinner as a family?
Hands down, we love Barberitos in High Point. Their food is always fresh and delicious. They are very kid friendly too.

Favorite date night spot?
Right now, our favorite date night spot is 1618 in Greensboro. They have delicious seafood and the atmosphere is very modern. It’s the kind of place where the chef comes out so you can tell him how great it was and your servers remember you the next time you come. We enjoy the patio as well.

Favorite book you have read?
My favorite book is one I recently read called Same Kind of Different as Me by Denver Moore. It has truly changed the way I think about life. I recommend it to everyone!

Funniest thing one of your children has ever done or said?
I have thought and thought about this one, and have decided I HAVE to start writing their funny comments down so I don’t forget. I think one of the funniest things was when I had to take my son who was 2 at the time to the gynecologist with me. He watched me as I undressed before the doctor came in, and when I was down to my bra he said, “You gonna take those off too?” I couldn’t help but laugh out loud at that. Thankfully, he was very into his toy bag for the remainder of the appt!

Favorite place to shop for children’s clothes?
I love spending the day at Friendly Center. So, shopping at Justice, Gymboree, and Gap are fun for the kids clothes.

Best kept secret in the Triad?
One of the best kept secrets in the Triad is Southern Roots. A superb restaurant in Jamestown on Main Street. It has moved there recently and the atmosphere is so fresh and quaint. They have a great patio to relax on and eat. There are comfy sofas and a fireplace out there. Perfect for lunch with the girls or a date night! Their food is always delicious too.

What is the best birthday party you have attended?
We had a fun birthday party for my oldest daughter a few years ago. In the midst of the Hannah Montana frenzy… we took them to a real recording studio in Greensboro called Underground Sound. The owner, Saul, was so kind and professional with the girls. They got to get in the sound booth, wear the head phones, and sing in small groups into real microphones while their songs were recorded onto a CD. It was really fun. If you do it, I recommend taking only 5-6 girls. We had 9 and it got a little crowded!

What is your favorite mom’s must have item for around the house?
I really like my new Bounce bar that I stuck to my dryer. I don’t have to use the dryer sheet anymore. It’s supposed to last 3 months. Just don’t dry dark clothes on a high temperature – I learned it leaves a white residue on them if you do! I also love my Tyler Candle Company candle – “High Maintenance” is the name of the scent I have. It smells up my whole house and I love it!

Favorite park?
My kids love Triad Park because it has the recycled tire “flooring” instead of mulch.

Favorite or most helpful blog you have read on Triad Smarty Pants thus far?
I love the reminders about the great sales!

Best thing about raising a family in the Triad?
I can’t imagine living anywhere else! I love how we get to experience all 4 seasons and that we are so close to the beach and the mountains.

Jenny, it was so much fun reading your answers, and you have truly eased my mind a little about my kids entering Middle School one day!

Don't forget to cast your vote for your favorite Homemade Halloween costume! You have until Wednesday, October 14 at 5 pm. Place your vote by clicking here!

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Homemade Halloween Costume Contest - Let the Voting Begin!

By Rachel H

The entries are in! Thank you to all of our moms and dads who submitted entries into the TSP Homemade Halloween Costume Contest! We were so impressed with your ideas! Now it is all up to our readers to decide the winners. Everyone please take a moment to scroll through and vote on your favorite costume by clicking the link at the end of the blog. (Only one vote per person, please!) Double-click on any of the photos below for a close-up view.

Readers will have until Wednesday, the 14th at 5pm to place their votes. We will tally the votes that evening and the five costumes with the most votes will be announced as our winners on Thursday, the 15th at 2pm. Our winners will each receive 4 tickets to Disney on Ice. They will also appear on Fox 8 Morning News on Monday, October 19th.

We hope these costumes will give you some inspiration in designing costumes for your own family this year. Good luck to all!

Mercer the Good Wicked Witch




Brock as Lightning McQueen




Emma the Lollipop






Ryan the Lobster in a Clam Shell
(Baby Ryan is the lobster and Dad is in the background)






Alex the Turtle


Mason the Devil


Sisterhood of the Traveling Purses


Phoenix the Pipe Organ


Carter Nicholas the Octopus



DJ as Peter Pan


Louis the Cheeseburger & AJ the Hotdog


Maddie the Three-headed Skeleton




Tanner the Centaur


Owen the Native American


Voting has now ended.

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Smarty Sponsor: Perfect Playspaces

By Katie M and Guest Blogger Tiffany McDaniel

If you think spring and summer are the only times to buy playsets or playhouses, think again! Right now is the perfect time for three reasons. First, you can count on this great Carolina weather to stick around for a least another few months. Second, the holidays are just around the corner, and a new playset would make the ultimate holiday gift. And third, our newest partner, Triad-based Perfect Playspaces, is offering all Triad Smarty Pants readers 20% off any playspace you purchase! All you have to do is mention that you read about them on Triad Smarty Pants!

What’s great about Perfect Playspaces is that they will custom build your child’s dream castle, playset or fantasy treehouse to match your child’s favorite storybook, movie or toy. All you have to do is dream it, and they will build it!

Perfect Playspaces’ owners Jayanna and Justin Nichols are Triad residents who share the ideal backgrounds for starting this business. Justin had been a NC Licensed General Contractor for about 5 years, and before that he was a NC Residential Building Inspector. Jayanna is a mompreneur – owner and inventor of the nationally known YogaSmart Pants and decided to put her marketing and advertising skills to use for her husband. Tired of the standard wood playhouses and boring kits on the market, Justin decided to use his contracting skills to build their five-year-old daughter a custom playset for her birthday. Before it was even finished four families stopped by and wanted one....and after a few short weeks of marketing their new endeavor… Perfect Playspaces was born. Today, Pefect Playspaces has over 40 themes to choose from, or you can create your own.

Greensboro resident Tiffany McDaniel was Perfect Playhouses first customer and has been impressed with their work from day one. Here’s what she had to say:

My husband and I first fell in love with the idea of a little play house when watching "Jon & Kate Plus 8." I checked out the website of the Crooked House company that was used on the show, and was disappointed when I saw the cost of final sets - that wouldn't come assembled - to be over $4,000. Fortunately, we were discussing these with friends of ours, Jayanna & Justin Nichols, and learned that they were in the initial phases of starting Perfect Playspaces! Justin custom built the play house at our home, leveling the ground and working with the layout of our property. He spent several days meticulously working to build our daughters perfect escape. We were given several options to design/paint, and choose a whimsical yellow trimmed in white. The cedar shingles are beautiful & add a classic touch.

Our 16-month-old-daughter, Abigail, LOVES her play space! She'll often stand at the back door and repeat "outside" - running to it as soon as we go out. She loves to run to each of the windows in the playhouse and shout “Hi” to us as she's playing in her little retreat. The inside is finished in a beautiful beadboard and the door has beautiful hardware. We often take a pile of books to read in her little house, but sometimes she prefers to take her play food inside and use it as a restaurant. I know this play house will provide countless hours of entertainment as she grows! When we host play date all of the kids love climbing up and down the stairs and playing inside, even the older kids.

Justin was wonderful to work with, meticulous with the details and made sure that we were 100% satisfied with our daughters play house. I would definitely recommend Perfect Playspaces to anyone who is looking to provide their child with a perfect space to experience the joy of active, imaginary play!

Perfect Playspaces offers two options for play outdoors: Playhouses and Playsets. The whimsical playhouses look like a page out of a storybook. They measure 8 ft deep by 6 ft wide x 9 ft tall and cost around $2800 (includes construction, paint, inside beadboard and cedar shake roof). Custom painted themes cost an additional $200.

Simple playsets start at $699 and include a custom wood frame, two swings and one glider; however, they can custom build or add anything you see online or in the marketplace. (The playset pictured above cost $2,200).

Plans are underway to add more photos of their projects to their web site, so be sure to check it often. And when you are ready to build, call Jayanna at 336-239-2454. It’s an investment that will provide hours – and years – of fun for any child!

Don't forget to register for our October Giveaway - a $250 package from Zoe Zen Photography. Click here to learn more about Zoe Zen and register.

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Smarty Alert: H1N1 Virus Update

By Guest Blogger Dr. William Satterwhite, Twin City Pediatrics

You probably have noticed the increased number of cases of H1N1 (also known as swine flu) that are being diagnosed. The following is information that may help you make decisions about what your child should and should not do.

A recent study on H1N1 found the following symptoms in patients:

Patients presented with fever (94%), cough (92%), sore throat (66%), diarrhea (25%), and vomiting (25%). On a more positive note, the patients that we have seen with swine flu have had symptoms that were milder than what we typically see with seasonal flu.

According to the CDC, the following should be considered for treatment with Tamiflu if they test flu positive in the office:

- Children less than 2 years old
- Adults over 64
- Pregnant women
- People with chronic or high risk medical conditions
- Children 2 to 4 years old if they have a high risk condition or are severely ill
- Anyone else the physician thinks is really sick and would benefit from treatment.

The recommendations are the same to treat family members of patients that have the flu.

This means that your otherwise healthy 7-year-old child may not require treatment if he is looking good and has a temperature less than 102.

Two questions that many of our parents have are:

Should I keep my child out of school if a classmate has H1N1? What precautions can my child take?

There is no need to keep your child home from school if he has no symptoms of the flu. Encourage good hand washing. Keep your hands away from your face and mouth. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available. Remember to cough into your arm or a tissue and then wash your hands.

If your child does develop symptoms of the flu, they should stay home. Anyone with these symptoms should not be at school, daycare, work or participating in group activities Call your doctor if your child has fever, cough, sore throat and body aches. Your child should remain out of school or daycare until he or she has been fever free for 24 hours without needing Tylenol or Motrin.

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Smarty Scoop on Weekend Events

By Katie M

Happy Wednesday! Let's hope the rain ends soon because there are a lot of fun activities happening around the Triad, including the Dixie Classic Fair which runs through this weekend. If you haven't been yet, be sure to read Smarty tips before you go!

Also, if you are in the market for a new car seat, plan on doing some shopping this week! For a limited time, Amazon is offering up to 22% off Britax carseats, one of the most trusted brands of children's carseats. Stock up now, Smarties!

As for the rest of this week's Smarty scoop, read on!

Sedge Garden UMC Consignment Sale
Friday, Oct. 9 and Saturday, Oct. 10
Sedge Garden United Methodist Church, 794 Sedge Garden Rd, Kernersville
For more information on items and times, call 336-788-2297.

Disney’s A Christmas Carol Train Tour
Friday, Oct 9 from 9 am to 7 pm
NC Transportation Museum, 411 S. Salisbury Ave, Spencer
A behind-the-scenes look at the making and the magic of Disney’s motion picture “A Christmas Carol.” Free event. Call 704-636-2889 for more information.

Ghost Train Halloween Festival
Fridays and Saturdays throughout Oct. 7:30-11:30 p.m.
Tweetsie Railroad, US Highway 321
Come celebrate 20 years of Tweetsie’s Halloween festival. Take a ride on the Ghost Train, a trip through the 3-D maze, tour the Haunted House, jump on the Creepy Carnival and other rides, visit the Black Hole and the Freaky Forest attraction. Adults and children, $26; under 2, free. 1-877-TWEETSIE.

Fun on the Farm
Saturday, Oct. 10 at 6 pm
The Children’s Home, 1001 Reynolda Road, W-S
It's time for the 3rd Annual Fun on the Farm! Bring your lawn chairs & blankets to enjoy a crisp Fall evening filled with Hayrides, Dinner, Roasting Marshmallows, Silent Auction, Live Music, Face Painting and great views of Downtown Winston-Salem! Tickets are $10 for Adults, $5 for Children (5-12), and Children under 5 are free. Ticket price includes dinner and all activities! Beer & Wine will be available for an additional charge. All proceeds of this event benefit The Children's Home.

Buddy Walk 2009
Saturday, Oct. 10 from 9 am to Noon
Tanglewood Park, Shelter #4, Clemmons
Walk to support the Piedmont Down Syndrome Support Network. Walkers receive a T-shirt. Enjoy inflatables, petting zoo and a talent show. Registration required. Individuals, $15; family, $35; groups of 10, $100. 9 a.m.-noon. Call 336-712-3448 to register or get more information.

Bur-Mil Park’s Annual Fall Festival
Saturday, Oct. 10 from 10 am to 4 pm
Bur-Mil Park, 5834 Bur-Mil Club Rd, GSO
Hayrides, games, face painting, a petting zoo, children’s crafts, pumpkin patch, bow and arrow demonstrations, carnival food, etc. Free event. Call 336-373-3819 for more info.

Carolina Renaissance Festival
Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.
North Charlotte (between Concord and Huntersville on Hwy 73 at Poplar Tent Road. Exit 25 on I77 or exits 52 or 55 off I85.
Come experience this medieval festival with its 10-stage theatre, a 20-acre circus, an arts and crafts fair, a jousting tournament and food all day. Adults, $18; ages 5-12, $7.

Pumpkin Patch & Fall Festival
Saturday, Oct. 10 from 8 am to Noon
Paul’s Chapel, 2719 W. Center St. Extension, Lexington
Fall festival, pumpkin patch and yard sale at Davidson Preschool. Free event.

Community Day Festival
Sun, Oct. 11 from 2 to 4 pm
Reynolda House Museum, Winston-Salem
Reynolda House Museum of American Art invites the public to an exotic fun-filled Community Day Festival. Sponsored by The Budd Group, Community Day is a free celebration of two amazing explorers, Charles Darwin and Frederic Church, who traveled to South America in the mid-1800s, one in the name of science, the other in the name of art. A wide range of activities for children and adults will be going on throughout the afternoon. For more information, please visit reynoldahouse.org or call 336.758.5150.

Arts On Sunday Rhythm of Art
Sunday, Oct. 11 at 1 pm
Trade St, between 6th and 7th streets in Winston-Salem
Come enjoy featured art and craft exhibits, live music, dance, artist's demonstrations, a Kid's Craft Corner and much, much more in the Downtown Winston-Salem Arts District. Beginning at 1 PM, the sidewalks of Trade Street between 6th & 7th Streets will be buzzing with excitement. This FREE event is fun for the whole family and a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. You will find surprise talent every week. Art, Fine Crafts, Global Dance & Poetry from all over the world. Free event. Call 336-413-6667 for more information.

If we forgot an event, please add below!

Don't forget to register for our October Giveaway - a $250 package from Zoe Zen Photography. Click here to learn more about Zoe Zen and register.

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Smarty Alert: Sigg Offering Free Exchange on its BPA Bottles

By Dana D, Charlotte Smarty Pants

Here's the bad news: I recently found out the liners of the Sigg containers, purchased before August 2008, contain BPA. It is quite frustrating because although the company is saying the product doesn’t leach BPA, it still does contain BPA. Here's the good news: There has been such an uproar about this issue that the CEO of Sigg has addressed a letter to the public offering to exchange all containers with these BPA liners. They are obviously trying to regain the consumer’s trust and confidence. I applaud them for this. Although, it would have been nice to just never used the BPA liners…

So if you purchased yours in or after August 2008 then you should be fine. Those of us who bought them before then please visit the link below. You have until October 31st, 2009 to return your containers in exchange for a new one with their Ecocare liner. The website and link below will answer questions about returning them and deciphering which liner you own.

http://mysigg.com/bulletin/

You can download shipping labels from the site for returns. Unfortunately, you have to pay shipping to them since this is a voluntary program not a recall. They will contact you once they receive your bottles. You are instructed to keep your caps and tops as extras. No refunds will be given. The website says some retailers are accepting exchanges so if you still have a receipt (not me) you can try to return it to where you originally purchased it.

Those of you who have Klean Kanteens do not need to worry. They do not have liners and have never used BPA. They are made of stainless steel, not aluminum like the Sigg containers. Now that Sigg has a new liner then I think both options are a great choice for you and your family. Despite these some of these issues, remember we are heading in the right direction for a cleaner, better planet for our little ones. Stay smarty and continue to use your reusable containers……preferably BPA free.

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Going Out to Eat Without Breaking the Bank!

By Rachel H

Anyone who knows me knows that my favorite thing to do is to go out for a meal. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee (even though I don’t drink coffee) … you name it. I love the atmosphere, the food, and the fact that someone is serving me! We have gone out to eat as a family ever since our kids were born. If you love eating out as much as I do, a word to the wise is to start them young! If you take them out enough, they learn very quickly how to act in a restaurant and you won’t have to give up something you love because you are afraid of your child running into the waitress or climbing across the table.

Of course the downside is that going out to eat can get very pricey, especially when you add in kids’ meals, drinks, appetizers, and the tip. Since I am not willing to give up my only vice, I’ve had to find ways to dine for less. Here are a few of my favorites…

Go to www.Restaurant.com. All you do is type in your zip code, and all participating restaurants in your area will pop up. Then you can purchase $25 or $50 gift cards for as little as $10 or $15! Once you buy some, you will get on their email list and they will send you specials. Last month I got a $25 gift card for Hutch & Harris for just $4.00!!! I got a $25 gift card for Prissy Polly’s for $4.00 as well. The only catch is that there is usually a minimum you need to spend at the restaurant to use the gift card. The one for Hutch & Harris, was a minimum of $35, which is no problem, but Prissy Polly’s minimum was $50, so we’ll probably use that next time we have friends over and get a bunch of BBQ to go! You print these gift certificates out from your computer at home. It is also a great way to try out some new restaurants that you normally would not visit.

Another online coupon site is www.rewardbuck.com. It works similar to the website I described above and it also includes printable coupons for area attractions.

Another way I save is that I always buy an “Attractions” coupon book. You can pretty much buy these from any child in school because they are probably selling them for their school fundraiser or a sport they play. This book is full of buy one get one free coupons for many restaurants in your area as well as many stores and children’s venues. If you have somehow avoided getting harassed by your friends to buy one, you can also purchase one online here. Greensboro & High Point areas are in the Piedmont Triad Book, and W-S, Kernersville, Clemmons areas are in the Western Piedmont Book.

And last, but not least, always check TSP’s Kids Eat Free blog. There are plenty of places in the Triad where you can dine out, purchase an adult meal, and get your child’s meal either at a discount or for free. This blog is always accessible by clicking the “Most Popular Posts” pink button on the right of the website, or you can find it under the Categories on the left-hand side of the website. Click on Restaurants, Food, or Saving Your Wallet. Always call ahead first to make sure they are still honoring the Kids Eat Free night. If you find any that have changed, please leave a comment at the end of the blog.

So toss aside those oven mitts and spatulas tonight and take the family out! What tips do you have for Dining Out on a budget? Share them below!

Don't forget to register for our October Giveaway - a $250 package from Zoe Zen Photography. Click here to learn more about Zoe Zen and register.

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8 Smarty Things you need to know this week

By Rachel H

1. You have until Friday to enter our October Giveaway, which is a $250 package from Zoe Zen photography. Click here to read more about Zoe Zen and to enter the giveaway. The link will be at the end of her blog.

2. Pictures for the Halloween Contest are due by noon on Thursday. Send them to triadsmartypants@gmail.com. Click here to get all the rules for the contest. If you are not entering the contest, be sure to log on to TSP on Friday to vote for your favorite entry!

3. Keep those hands washed!! The swine flu is creeping into the Carolinas, and although it does not seem to be as bad as the name makes it sound, it doesn't hurt to be careful. Click here to read the blog we ran from Dr. Satterwhite on this issue.

4. The Dixie Classic Fair runs through the remainder of this week. You’ve got to take the fam! It is so much fun! Click here for Katie's tips on taking your family to the fair.

5. You have one week left to sign your 7-14 year old up for Crazy Running! Click here to read the details.

6. We’ve added a few more sponsors to our Birthday Party Directory. Look to your right at that cute green button that says “Birthday Party Directory”! Click on it and have fun planning your next child’s birthday!

7. This is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Check out this blog from Charlotte Smarty Pants to find out what you need to know about mammograms.

8. And last, but not least, the Creative Containers Sale (Buckhead Betties Manufacturers Sale) starts on the 15th. Mark your calendar and stay tuned for specific dates and times - we will run a Smarty Alert next week. Here is our blog from the spring, which has some great tips.

Have a great week, and Happy Fall Ya’ll!

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The Great Pumpkin Patch Search

By Katie M

Fall is my absolute favorite time of year, and one thing I love to do with the kids is find a great pumpkin patch where they can run around, have fun, and create fabulous candid shots. Pumpkin patches make the best backdrops for photos, do they not? So every year I am on the hunt for the best pumpkin patch, and every year I come up short. I know I am not alone in this because a few Smarty readers have emailed us asking for a list of pumpkin patches around the Triad. Rachel and I even reached out to friends to ask for their favorite pumpkin places. A few offered some locations listed below, but many were in the dark like us.

Below is a "working" list of pumpkin patches around the Triad - meaning we would love some input! Some of these locations are actual pumpkin farms while others are just seasonal locations offering pumpkins for sale and other activities like hay rides and Halloween attractions. I tried to include as much information as I could find. Also, I have only been to the pumpkin patch on Clemmonsville Road in Winston-Salem, so I can only vouch for that location (it is a pretty good patch - not fantastic - but good). The rest of the locations below were sent as suggestions or I found them online. So, you'll have to check these out yourself and let us know if they are good, or not! 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)

Centenary United Methodist Church
2300 West Friendly Ave (corner of Elam & Friendly)
Pumpkin Patch starts October 10th
(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
Burton Road off Westchester (about one mile down on your left). It does not have a name, but has a big orange pumpkin sign that says “pumpkins for sale.”

Kersey Valley Spookywoods
1615 Kersey Valley Rd, High Point, NC 27263
Haunted house, hitch hikers revenge tram ride, haunted corn field, Maize Adventure corn maize, gem and fossil dig, Spookywoods Maze, pumpkin patch, gift shop, snacks and refreshments, restrooms, picnic area, and tractor-pulled hay rides. Accepts Cash, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx. Call 336-821-9999 for more info.

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: "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.

Winston-Salem area
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

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.

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
Hidden Horse Farm
681 Howardtosn Circle, Mocksville NC 27028
October 5 – 28. Fridays and Saturdays from 10 am to 6 pm; Sundays from 1 pm to 5 pm
Pumpkins and pony rides from crafts, milking cow, duck races, obstacle course, story trail, face painting, "redneck" ring toss, roping, and many more games. Preschool groups Fridays by appointment. Appropriate for all ages! Rain or shine. Includes large covered arena so most things are under shelter. Cost is $2. For more information, contact Ellen James (336) 998-5805.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Be sure to check out Charlotte Smarty Pants today - they are running a list of pumpkin patches around Charlotte too!

Don't forget to register for our October Giveaway - a $250 package from Zoe Zen Photography. Click here to learn more about Zoe Zen and register.

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Smarty Pick for a Diaper Bag

By Ashley H, Charlotte Smarty Pants

As a first time mom, the diaper bag was one of those baby items that I took some time in selecting. For me personally, it needed to be affordable, roomy (for twins), functional and stylishly simple so my husband could share in lugging the load with me (i.e. no adorable swirly-girlie polka dotted fabric). I settled on the Pottery Barn Kids Ultimate Diaper Bag and have no regrets!

I love the padded messenger bag style of my diaper bag, it allows me to handle the twins hands free or wear it just over one shoulder. Options, I love options. The two exterior pockets were great for the bottle days & are still fabulous for throwing in two sippy cups and getting out the door. This bag is made of rugged, wipe-clean polyester and has magnetic pocket closures for one-handed use. Inside it's roomy with lots of pockets and comes with a wipe-clean changing pad. It's a bag that Marcus or I could carry and we've been perfectly happy with it from day one. Now just two short years later they no longer carry it (that's PBK for you), but I think their new Camden bag is somewhat similar.

Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to a diaper bag. What features and options did you look for, and what's your overall Smarty diaper bag recommendation?!

Don't forget to register for our October Giveaway - a $250 package from Zoe Zen Photography. Click here to learn more about Zoe Zen and register.

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Smarty Mom: Elizabeth Miller

By Rachel H

Welcome to another Smarty Mom Saturday! Today we are happy to introduce you to Elizabeth Miller. Elizabeth was raised here in the Triad, briefly moved to Nashville, and has been back here since 2003. She lives with her husband, Ben, and daughter, Charlotte, who is 1 ½ years old.

Elizabeth works full-time as an Art Teacher at Meadowlark Middle School. She and her husband also enjoy volunteering with the youth group at Calvary West. She just finished her Masters in Art Education & is currently working towards her National Board. Anyone in the field of Education knows that National Boards can be a BEAR, so I am thoroughly impressed that Elizabeth somehow has also fit a new business into her life! She started Creative & Colorful Designs, which is a small business where she sells framable art, stationery, and freelance work. She has a gallery & studio in downtown Winston-Salem, The Art Cue(Q) on Liberty Street. Elizabeth enjoys art so much, that she also teaches art workshops along with Heather Dutton, one of her co-workers at the middle school.

Let’s get to know more about Elizabeth …

What are your best tips for moms like yourself who are juggling many different obligations?
Don’t be too hard on yourself! It is impossible to do everything perfectly! It is okay to ask for help and to say no. My plate is very full, but I try to only fill it with things that bring me, or my family joy. If you are spending your time using your gifts, it won’t seem like work. And, it is important to master the art of prioritizing. (a work in progress!)I keep holding on to a quote a heard, “There is enough time for everything God wants me to do!”

I am an art lover myself and it makes me so sad when my son tells me how much he loathes coloring or making crafts. How can we help our children appreciate art at home?
Art is just as much about the process of creating it, as it is about the finished piece. A lot of moms are looking for a perfectly drawn butterfly or truck. I encourage you to let your kids make a mess. Let them draw outside of the lines, literally. Practice “dots” with chocolate pudding. Try to let them enjoy making the art, and don’t worry so much about “what it is.” Teach your kids how to see!! As you notice the bright puffy clouds, talk about them. Search for 4-leaf clovers, smell the basil, draw the birthday card, trace your hand, paint with water, stack the blocks and take a picture of it. Show your kids what is behind your digital camera. Let them pick what to take include in a picture. Print it, paint a $1 frame to put that picture in, and hang it in their room or give it as a gift. Your child might end up being very proud of that one click. Ta da, art!

Tell us more about your classes that you teach.
At the Art Cue(q) downtown we offer workshops for primarily middle and high school age students. The workshop we are offering now is on Tuesday nights from 6:30-8:00. Enrollment is on-going and to register all you need to do is e-mail me at creativeandcolorful@yahoo.com. It is a great atmosphere where we help students in areas that they want to work on. We do everything from realistic portraits, to abstract collages, book-making, oil and acrylic painting. We tailor the class to what media the student wants to work in. We also have adult art nights, “Girls, Glue & Gossip.” The next open date is October 25th from 6:30-8:30. You do not have to be a fabulous artist to come. It is a great place to socialize and work on unfinished art pieces, or start something new. Bring your favorite beverage and/or snack and a suggested $5 donation. Adhesives and most materials are provided. Visit www.creativeandcolorful.com and click on the Art Cue (Q) for pictures and more info.

Another fun art event to mark you calendar for is Whimsical Women! It will be November 21st this year. Visit
http://whimsical-women.blogspot.com/search/label/Elizabeth%20Miller for more info. It is an awesome event and great place to start your Christmas Shopping.

What is the smartiest way you save money?
I am a coupon clipper and a second-hand shopper! If you are in need of a “new” toy, “new” outfit, or something for your house…I guarantee you can find something similar to what you are looking for half of the price if you look at consignment stores, ebay, or on Craigslist. I enjoy shopping this way!

What is your favorite family activity?
Grilling out with our family and friends.

Favorite “me-time” activity?
A manicure or pedicure is the most relaxing “me-time” activity.

Favorite place to eat dinner as a family?
We love El Dorado on Country Club Road. It is like the “Cheers” of Mexican food. They know our name and our order before we sit down. It is the best Mexican food in town. You have to try the white sauce that they serve to dip your chips in. Good stuff!

Favorite date night spot?
Can I dream here? It has been a while since a real date night. A real treat: Firebirds. A realistic treat: Brixx.

Favorite book you have read?
You mean there are books to read that aren’t about National Boards, a Masters, or teaching art??! If I’m on a beach and have time to read, I like Jodi Piccoult books.

Best place to eat lunch with the kids?
Time to Eat in Clemmons. Good food & good service.

Favorite place to shop for children’s clothes?
Okay, I’m very thrifty, don’t make fun of this! But, I love Mega Thrift, the Goodwill Outlet, Once Upon a Child and the Consignment sale of the weekend! I find the best stuff for ridiculously good prices. This shopping techinique might not work as Charlotte gets older, but for now I find really cute stuff.

What is your favorite mom’s must have item for around the house?
The latest trend in my house is when I try to put Charlotte to bed, she immediately says “rock.” Every mom needs a good rocking chair! I treasure the moments that I get to spend rocking my baby to sleep.

Favorite park in the Triad?
Joanie Moser Park, Lewisville

Favorite or most helpful blog you have read on Triad Smarty Pants thus far?
Having Fun on the Potty

Best thing about raising a family in the Triad?
There are enough things to do if you want to be busy such as free art events downtown (Gallery Hop is the first Friday of each month), day trips to Shelton Vineyards (The Harvest Festival is coming up October 10th & 11th, and it is actually very kid friendly! I will have a booth there, stop by and say hi. There are hay rides for the kids and live music!) , or the Zoo. And small enough, that you can easily get around town and enjoy the park or ice cream at Marble Slab…

I could not live without my...
Family! And, I mean my parents and my in-laws. They play such a huge role in my life and in the role of Charlotte’s life. I am blessed!!

Thank you, Elizabeth! You are one talented woman! We appreciate all you shared with us today.


Don't forget to register for our October Giveaway - a $250 package from Zoe Zen Photography. Click here to learn more about Zoe Zen and register.

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Unplugged

By Guest Blogger Jennifer Guidry

Remember the days when the Slinky was the coolest thing you owned? Whatever happened to that $4 coil of wire that we spent hours playing with? (Five minutes throwing down the stairs and 55 minutes trying to untwist it and squeeze it back into its original shape.) These days everything is battery powered, backlit, pocket-sized, and no longer requires actual sentences to work – LOL!

Can you remember when you couldn’t call your spouse on his way home from work because cell phones where the size of carry-on luggage and cost most than Yugo?

I just don’t know how we ever managed before we were plugged-in, online and Wi-Fied. OMG!! We had to write with a pen and paper, mail a letter using a stamp and wait two weeks before our pen pal wrote back. Today, in the age of instant gratification, it is important to slow down and smell the roses – literally.

Take a weekend with the kids and “unplug.” Turn off the cell phones, dust off the board games and sit down with your kids for two days of techno-free fun. Here are a few ideas to slow down life and build a few memories that don’t require 6 MB of RAM:

1. Have them write their grandparents a letter. Use full sentences, old-fashioned grammar and a lot of love. Make them use a dictionary to “Spell-check.”
2. Play Scrabble, Monopoly, Scattergories, Charades or cards. Teach them old fashioned 5 card poker and Michigan Rummy.
3. Go for a walk, take the dog, and get the blood flowing. Smell some roses.
4. Pick up leaves and shave crayons. Then iron them in between two sheets of wax paper. Use them for sun catchers in the window.
5. Take Subway to the any one of the overlook stops on the way to Pilot Mountain and have a mini picnic. Pop-a-Squat and people watch. Count the blue cars coming from the north verses the red from the south.
6. See if the local retirement home would like a hosted game of Bingo. Ask if they have the balls in a cage you crank until the number rolls out. Use pennies instead of daubers. Give hugs and kisses as prizes.
7. Read a classic to the family instead of watching American Idol. Try Dickens and wait a day between chapters. It was originally a series anyway.
8. Press flowers.
9. Speak only pig latin.
10. Bring a homemade dinner to the fire station. See if they’ll let you sit in the fire truck. Blow the horn while you’re there.

These are just a few ideas. If you don’t know some of the things I referenced above, no worries. You can Google them. :-)

Jennifer, thank so much for this post! Your last sentence cracked me up. Pictured above are Jennifer's children enjoying an unplugged moment. TSP readers, share with us your favorite ways to "unplug."


Don't forget to register for our October Giveaway - a $250 package from Zoe Zen Photography. Click here to learn more about Zoe Zen and register.

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October Giveaway: $250 package from Zoe Zen Photography

By Rachel H and Guest Blogger Suellen Thompson

We are diving into the fall season with a terrific giveaway. Can you find a more beautiful time of the year for portraits than autumn? This month we are happy to introduce you to Zoe Lam of Zoe Zen Photography, who is giving away a package valued at $250 to one lucky Triad Smarty Pants reader. Her work is gorgeous, as you can tell by the photos above. Her website shows even more photography that captures personalities so perfectly.

One of our loyal readers, Suellen Thompson has used Zoe Zen quite a few times now and shared with us how much she truly values the talent that Zoe offers...

Suellen … Having professional photographs taken is like a form of serious torture for me. They feel so permanent. The effort and money that you put into them… I don’t know why, but it stresses me out beyond belief! I think it must be the pressure of finding the perfect outfits, because of course I want to find something for everyone that complements the others without being too over the top matchy. I search high and low for the most beautiful setting at this particular time of year. I prefer outdoor photos to indoor studio shots. Once the place has been selected I must pray for spectacular weather-not too hot, too cold, humid, please no rain or too cloudy. Then of course there is all the effort that I have to put into coordinating a time when it is convenient for everyone (especially my husband who will try to avoid having the photos taken at all costs)! We must avoid naptimes, mealtimes or the bewitching hour of 4-7pm for toddlers. Also there is me! I am not a prissy girl, but I really want to look great in the photos, so I work really hard to “do my hair” and apply makeup. This nearly kills me. Finally, I must select the least staining snacks possible and manage the task of getting everyone to the scene without any major meltdowns about why the bright yellow crocs just can’t be worn today.

So as you can tell, professional photographing sessions REALLY stress me out!!!! But when we met our photographer and friend Zoe, of Zoe Zen Photography for our photo session, I was so relieved when she took control. I had already discussed some things with her that I did not want the photos to be like, so she knew just what I hoped for. I wanted the portraits to be very casual and playful, more candid, not staged or stuffy. I wanted the portraits to really look like us. She brought fun
things like pinwheels and bubbles to distract and entertain my 4 year old and 15 month old. I was so pleased at the end of the session. I was even more thrilled with the photographs. One of my favorites of my daughter is pictured here on left.

I have not gone back to another studio since our first session with Zoe. I even had her take photographs at my son’s 2nd birthday party which was the best! (picture at the right). She took care of the pictures so that I could relish in watching him struggle to blow out those two candles. She also found quiet moments of just him on that special day with that beautiful birthday glow. Moments I missed because I had to host the party and keep rowdy toddlers inline. I regret that I had not done that sooner! I think I have maybe 4 photos from my daughter’s 2nd birthday party.

I’m so excited to have found a photographer who is patient with children, pays attention to small details and moments and mostly who helps me relax and enjoy the process of the session.

TSP readers, are you excited yet?!?!? Zoe is offering our winner her Sweet Love package, which includes a two hour photo session, CD and prints (4 of your choice), one 11x14 Mounted & Lamination ready to hang or stand, 25-40 photos online proof album with a complementary first two week online viewing, and a proof book which includes 4x6 photos with the Zoe Zen logo.

If you want to register for this giveaway, first make sure you are a newsletter subscriber. If not, please enter your email address in the pink box above to begin receiving our weekly newsletter. Then, just click here (this giveaway has now ended)to complete a short survey and get your name “in the hat” to win this awesome package! You will have until noon on October 9th to register, and then that afternoon we will use a random number program to select our winner. We will contact the lucky smarty to send us a picture so we can reveal you as the winner on TSP! Best of luck!

Update: Jessica met with Zoe and had a FANTASTIC photo session! Check out some of the best shots here!

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