Note to our Readers:   In May 2008 alone, we reached over 9,800 unique (individual) visitors, over 17,000 visits total from area families; viewing over 37,500 pages!   Thanks for coming by!

Kim's Blog gives me the perfect opportunity to update content to the website almost daily, so there is always new info available for you! 

I always appreciate your feedback, your tips and your ideas, so keep them coming.  Kim Leistner Little, Founder & President, Springfield Moms

Updated weekly! Over $360 in savings on Mom's Choice Directory with NEW Printable pdf  of all sponsor coupons. Please tell our sponsors "I saw you on SpringfieldMoms.org."

July 22, 2008

Still enjoying time at Grandma's house, which is why I am not working everyday!  For the expectant and new moms, did you see the new article on Dressing for Two by Jen Madair?  I distinctly recall my nephew saying the following to me just one week AFTER I had delivered my first child:  "Aunt Kim, why does it still look like you are going to have a baby?" 

Some things can't be explained with ease!  Access this article and more on Baby Corner.

July 21, 2008

Busy parents looking for something to read other than children's books?  There are some great websites to help you out!  Check out Springfield Moms contributor Holly Schurter's blog with the never-ending list of book recs on her bookstack.  Click here. 

A clever website is www.literature-map.com where you enter your favorite authors, and it gives you a virtual map of authors of similar writing style or try www.whatshouldireadnext.com

Have a lot of used books that are looking for a new home?  Donate to one of our local public libraries!  Or for the swap savvy, try out www.novelaction.com where you can mail up to a dozed used books (costs about $4 media mail) to them and they will mail you 12 "new" books in return.  

July 20, 2008

Still on vacation at Grandma & Grandpa's house, and we had our first daytrip to Disneyland.  We were there before the gates opened and left when they closed a total of 16 hours onsite!  We met 6 princesses face-to-face, rode Dumbo, the Nemo submarine cruise, Pirates of the Caribbean and enjoyed the character parade two times!  Our 4 year-old LOVED the fast rollercoasters; our oldest preferred the sweeter, non-scary rides.  The Disney magic was all over the place...WOW!  One day of paradise for all of us; we hated to leave and see clearly why families come back again and again. 

July 18, 2008

We are hoping you will send in your favorite pet photos for our Pet of the Week feature!  Send us those darling photos of your furry or feathery-pets and yours might be the Pet of the Week  For those of you looking for creative play time for your pets while you are at work or travel, welcome to our new sponsor the Pampered Pet Center  (dawn link direct to their ad on pet corner).

July 17, 2008

A reader wrote in asking if we know of any baby sign language classes running at this time.  I don't.  Do you?  If so, email me!  

Shopping hint:  Our new GOLD Sponsor ACE Hardware has begun their Back to Campus Sale July 16-21 to stock up on school and organizational items for all over the house! 

July 16, 2008

Slowing Down I had the strange, but wonderful experience of airport travel the other day all by myself.   Just me, my blackberry, People magazine, and licorice that I did not have to share!  Sitting in the airport, I enjoyed people watching galore.  I saw former versions of myself, the constant business traveler in work mode, and newer versions of myself as I watched many busy families trekking through with all of their stuff.    Life takes us in many stages, and although I still mourn that truly independent stage every now and then;  the hugs and kisses I received upon arrival quickly reminded me how much I love where I am now.    We're staying at Grandma & Grandpa's house, which is a a terrific break for me too!   The girls are having such fun, and I am getting more sleep than normal as the chores at home are miles and miles away!   My husband and I have had some date night time, and I continue to work wi-fi,  but at a reduced pace.   I am supposed to be on vacation!  Slowing down is good for all of us; so if this note finds you in our typical fast-paced work and family time, I hope you can take a few minutes to slow down. 

July 14, 2008 

WIN one of FIVE Elite Portrait Sittings and an 11 X 14 of your family compliments of Terry Farmer Photography!  How?  Log on to www.terryfarmer.com and join their mailing list, in the comments sections put "Taste of Downtown, Springfield Moms."  You must register by July 18th.   Good luck to our readers! 

The Drysdale Junior Golf Tournament begins today!  My nephews are excited to compete in this longstanding community tradition.  A great opportunity for kids from all over Central Illinois to come to Springfield to compete.  For the latest tee times and results, visit www.sj-r.com.   For a list of area public golf courses, visit our Sports page here.

July 13,2008

Aged Tires: A Driving Hazard? My dad sent me a link to an ABC News video that teaches us all how to decode the age of our tires.  Tires can dry out over time even if they haven't been driven on.  Before you purchase new tires and if you want to check out the age of your current tires, be sure you are in the know of how to find out the date that tire was manufactured.  After watching this video, I headed to my garage and was relieved to find that the tires on our cars were manufactured in late 2007 and early 2008.  I feel better knowing this information, watch the video here.

July 12, 2008

We had a great time at the Taste of Downtown meeting many new families!  Many thanks to our busy moms who shared their time today to work our booth and kids' area.

Maya Borski, Dawn Diveley, Vicki Martin, Rosemary Leistner, Christina Race, Faye Neuman, Emily Rabin, Michele Tungett, and Julie Kaiser; we appreciate your time!  For those of us there during the strong storm, wind and downpour, what an adventure!   We had to shut down a few hours early, but everything made it into my car just in time!  A tribute to Maya Borski who has worked almost EVERY Springfield Moms event we have had the past few years, and she ALWAYS does with a smile and can-do attitude for anything!    Also, special thanks to Ann Frescura and Downtown Springfield Inc. for partnering with us to co-sponsor the Kids Area along with with St. John's Children's Hospital and Marine Bank of Springfield.  A special thanks to Jim Allmon of UFM Livery, LLC for his contributions to support our FREE kids craft area!

July 11, 2008

Home Alone!  For the first time since I became a mom, I am the only person living in my house right now.  My husband took the girls to visit Grandma & Grandpa in his hometown on the West Coast, and I remain here with a very quiet and clean house.   As much as I love to have quiet time by myself to get away from it all, it's very strange to walk by my kid's rooms and see everything still in place, no crumbs in my bed or sibling rivalry dialogue from the family room.    I will be joining them next week, but I am busy preparing for our first year as a co-sponsor of the Kid's area at the Taste of Downtown Springfield THIS Saturday!   Bring your family and friends, and don't miss the Kid's Area from 12-5pm; we will have a lot of fun, free activities and cool, family goodies bags to the first 500 families!  Thanks to all of our sponsors and to UFM Livery for the additional sponsorship of our craft area!

The Ronald McDonald House is hosting an online auction from July 4-18 at www.rmhcspringfield.cmarket.com . All proceeds will stay in Springfield to help provide a "home away from home" for families staying in Springfield while their child is hospitalized. Some of our featured items include Cardinal tickets, golf, photo session, outdoor party rentals and a gym membership. Check out the auction - there's something for everyone!

July 10, 2008

Illinois State Fair Rides Tickets  A great value for a great cause!  Buy your unlimited ride passes for the Illinois State Fair and a portion of your ticket will go directly back to our local chapter of the Children’s Miracle Network!   It’s a great value to unlimited rides.  Fair dates:  Friday, August 8th through Sunday, August 17th Ticket price is $22.  The ticket price includes rides in Adventure Village and the Carnival Midway – about 50 rides.  Note: The Giant Slide, the Sky Glide and the Tram are NOT included.   Tickets are good for both children and adults.  The ticket does not include admission.  Tickets are non-refundable.  No refunds, rain checks or time extensions can be given due to inclement weather.  Tickets are not dated.  Once purchased, they can be used any day.  The ticket will be exchanged by the purchaser for a wristband at the carnival ticket booth. Purchase tickets at one of the following locations such as area Ace Hardware locations OR or purchase tickets or online (there is a $2.00 fee for online transaction.)  Visit www.cmnspringfield.org for more.

July 8, 2008

Cereal gone super-sweet!  Leave it to Martha to share this terrific way to use up those extra bits of cereal and make them into delicious sweet treats.  Recipe courtesy of www.marthastewartliving.com Homemade bonbons:  Melt 6 ounces of chocolate (white, milk or drak) in a double boiler or in a microwave (my choice!)  Stir in 4 cups of cereal, such as cornflakes.  Drop tablespoons of mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment, spacing them 1 inch apart.  Refrigerate until set.  Place in paper candy cups, and arrange in a box with tissue paper; tie with a bow.  YUM!

July 7, 2008

I was at Barnes & Noble on Veterans Parkway today and in the foyer they have take home fliers for kids grades 1-6 to complete a Summer Reading Journal now through September 2nd.  All kids who return their completed journal will get a coupon for a FREE book from a select list.  Limit one per child.

Welcome to our new sponsor All About Kids a nice addition to our consignment shops in the area!  10% off coupon for your first purchase.  Stop in today!  I found clothing, shoes and a great DVD of our popular year-round favorite movie  "Elf!"

July 5, 2008

July 4, 2008

Hey Springfield Area Families!  Now is your chance to be featured on HGTV’s My House is Worth What? 

The show brings in a local real estate expert to tour the home with the homeowner and at the end of the day, reveal the number that the expert believes the home is worth based on what's been done in the home, comps in the area and the current market.  Log on and apply! We’d love to see one of our reader families on the show!  

• Don't miss the 2008 Summer Camp & Activity Directory for a variety of camp options by the week or by the day!

• Thanks to Bob Murray at WTAX Newsradio 1240AM/107.5 FM for producing our new radio spots!   30 second   60 second

• Thanks to Dave Daniels at WDBR for the new Eco-Mom spots of green tips from Springfield Moms!  Listen here.

July 3, 2008

Attention Junior Golfers!  The LPGA begins July 14-20 at Panther Creek Country Country Club, and there is a free Junior Golf Clinic on Tuesday July 15th at 4:00 p.m.

You must pre-register, limited to first 200 participants.  Register at Golf Discount or at www.lpgastatefarmclassic.com

Also, the 71st Annual Drysdale Junior Golf Tournament is July 14-17, 2008.   More info on www.sj-r.com

July 2, 2008

Local Business FOCUS I would like to thank my colleagues and family for supporting me yesterday at the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce Annual Small Business Awards Luncheon.  I'm pleased to share that SpringfieldMoms.org was a finalist for Home-Based Business of the Year.  It was an honor to be recognized by the Chamber at such a wonderful event to honor local business owners.  We were impressed and inspired by the many business owners and business partners at the luncheon.  It's clear that where we live, people strive for success in business AND for giving back to the community.  This all comes with years of hard work, dedication and passion for your purpose.   This is something I strive for every day.  I thank YOU, our readers most of all...without YOUR participation in using our website and sharing it with your friends; we would not be where we are today!   We have so much more planned for the future too...stay tuned!  

Congratulations to one of our sponsors,  Knight's Action Park, for winning the "Big Kahuna" award for Sales OVER $1 Million!  I know this is a place our family loves to go to take a mini-vacation for the day or the afternoon, and it's great to have this so close to home!

FYI:  It seems prime neighborhood garage sale season is winding down a bit!  May & June was a GREAT time for bargain shopping!

Our Neighborhood Garage Sales  page is still being updated, if you have one, please provide dates, times, and directions.  Submit yours. All entries go into our monthly prize drawings.

July 1, 2008

Library of Congress Online:  Another great online tool sent to us by Vicki Hall, this one for doing research for 4th grade - adults. The Library of Congress website, click on Kids, Families.   It leads you to primary sources that can be used for research papers and projects.  Many educators are requiring primary sources to be one of the sources cited when doing research. There is so much more at this site but for kids there is a special section.

June 30, 2008

Reading Resource Online.  Thanks to Springfield Mom and Elementary School Librarian Vicki Hall for alerting us to a great free resource for Lincoln Library cardholders.   BookFLIX by Scholastic is available online.  Children can listen to and read along with PAIR IT books, Fiction and Nonfiction.   The site also has games and author information.   Just go to Lincoln Library's home page and click on Kids, then look for BookFlix and type in your library card number.   I highly recommend this great reading resource for all PreK - 3rd grade students.
They also have the Live Homework Help site on their main page.  I am so excited that our public library has subscribed to these valuable resources for children!

Getting involved in our Community  Thanks to Amy Crowdson for writing in to ask for a list of local groups that their family can get involved with to volunteer or to donate time or materials in need.  We have compiled a fantastic page of agencies and places for you.  Visit our Community Resources page and have fun discussing what you can do to make an impact.  Our community has a fantastic legacy of community involvement.  So, get involved today!

Make Springfield Moms Your HomePage!  Our goal is to provide everything you need in one place – www.springfieldmoms.org.  Need the weather forecast and updated news feeds?  We’ve got it.  Need activities to do? We’ve got it on What’s Happening.  Want to save money on everything from cookies to massages? Our printable coupon pdf is quick to print and keep in your car!  We add new coupons every week!   Here's how to set it up:  Open your web browser- internet explorer or whatever you use:  click on Tools, Internet Options (the general tab should be open,) in the Home page box, type in http://www.springfieldmoms.org  (note you must enter the http://in front of our URL and click on apply, and then ok.
The next time you launch your browser, it should have springfield moms as your home page!

Springfield Sliders:  A nice endorsement from local mom, Kathy Jackson.  Check out the new Springfield Sliders games.  County Market gives two free tickets out on Sundays for the game for Family Day. They have lots of kid activities going on during the games and have a kids club they can join for $5.   They get a free t-shirt, free hot dogs etc.. They even have birthday parties there which are very reasonable."  Their full game schedule is on www.springfieldsliders.com  We also keep their games on What's Happening-- so keep checking in!

Sniglets & Save Green on SMTD:  Any 70's generation kids who remember a book about "Sniglets"? They are made up words to describe funny things in our lives.   Example: "napjerk:  when you fall asleep and then have a boisterous spasm that jerks your whole body and wakes you up; funniest when it happens in front of others!  Moving on, my childhood friend and I made up our sniglet, it was called "Citybus-o-phobia."   It's not being afraid of riding the bus.  We rode the SMTD all of the time to get here and there.  It's when you are a passenger in a car at a stoplight, and the city bus is turning right in front of you and it appears the entire bus will be scraping your car or tipping over!  I do not know how those drivers make those turns, but they always do.  I would destroy one in a minute, I have terrible depth perception when driving!   To save money, it's a great time to explore  www.SMTD.org for local schedules of how to get around in an eco-friendly and inexpensive trip!

Each Thursday from 4 p.m.-7 p.m.  Families welcome, FREE  Illinois State Fairgrounds, Commodities Pavilion, 217-782-0777

www.illinoisproductmarket.com  Visit our website on market day to see what vendors will be participating and what items they will be bringing!  Market will feature fresh fruits and vegetables, homemade jams and jellies, baked goods, processed foods, meat items, and Illinois wine.

June 24, 2008

Martha's Summer Workshop:   Many of you know I am a bit domestically challenged in the kitchen "department." But, I still love cookbooks and reading magazines that show beautiful things we can do to enhance our homes.  Martha Stewart Living magazine is one of my favorite.    The cover alone brightens my day and beautifies my inbox while masking my stack of bills and to do items.   When I take time to review it, it's an escape into luxury and things I probably won't actually do or make anytime soon, but just reading about them is still fulfilling.   But, I know there are many of you who will and can create these beautiful items and make the delicious recipes, so I encourage you to log on to her summer workshop online, access here.  There is a host of useful checklists and things to keep you busy all summer long.  Feel free to email us any fun summer projects you are working on.   I am actually making some small improvements to my office, and I did exert my inner Martha recently when I had my kids repaint some old picture frames with bright colors to add new life to my decor.   I joined in the fun and actually like what I accomplished as well!  

June 23, 2008

Start Grilling!  Tired of the same old summer fare of burgers, brats and hotdogs? Looking for something different and yummy to throw on the grill?  Check out these delicious recipes for  Grilled Coconut Shrimp, Swordfish with Garlic Rosemary, Grilled Salmon with Pineapple Salsa from Roberts Seafood on In the Kitchen.  Save 10% of your first shopping trip as well!

June 22, 2008

June 21, 2008

Yesterday was one of those days.  The coffee did not make it into the coffee pot, instead it dripped all over the counter.  My car battery died out running errands for the second time this week, and instead of making it through my to-do list, I felt like 20 more items were added.  It was just one of those days that was not very productive. I was explaining to my newly named first grader how there are many days where things just don't flow, and she promptly said, this day will pass Mom.  Wow, I needed that.   Have a great weekend with your families; there is so much fun going on, it will be hard to choose! 

June 20, 2008

This weekend: Illinois Products Expo!  Don't miss this fun family event at the fairgrounds this week.  The 10th annual Illinois Products Expo is being held this Saturday and Sunday. 

Adults are $3, and kids 10 and under are free.  Come see over 40 Illinois based products, free samples and demonstrations throughout the day!   Hours and full details here!

TGIF: Tonight: Route 66 Drive-In is showing Kung-Fu Panda beginning at 9:30 p.m., and rumor has is the real Kun-fu panda will be onsite to say hello from 8:30-1p:00 p.m.

Call 698-0066 for more.   For those of you who are recall my Mom's Night Out that was diverted by the recent tornado warnings, I still haven't had that night rescheduled!  The DVD version of the "Sex and the City Movie" is looking more realistic for me.  I am sure I will be in to see Kung-Fu Panda first. 

June 18, 2008

Where is summer going?  Sometimes I feel like my life is measured in how quickly the Schwans delivery service comes to my house.  They come every two weeks, but I swear it feels like every 2 days!  Another two weeks has gone by?  I hope our summer schedule can slow down a bit; it doesn't feel very "lazy and hazy" as the old song goes. 

One activity we did begin last week was the summer reading program with Lincoln Library.  It's a good chance for all of us to sit down and have some reading time for kids of ALL ages!

There are so many great public libraries around the area, access the full list on our Summer Reading Program page.

June 17, 2008

Hair beware!  I discovered a fun website the other day www.spindaily.com.  A frivolous use of my time, but I have to say I actually learned some great tips!  I am not the best with styling my hair.  I have never liked to fuss with my hair, and I can never get it to look as good as my wonderful hair stylist Amy.   However, I found some video clips on spindaily that walked me through how to hot roll my hair properly and how to do some fast, easy up-do's that aren't formal and stuffy, but easy even for running errands.  We will see if I actually take the time to make any major changes in my hairstyling.

Head to the Gables with your friends!  This Thursday-Saturday is a FUN time to visit the Gables shopping area.  The weather should be nice, and you can enjoy free food sampling, lots of sales and live music and artisans on the plaza.  Details here!

June 15, 2008

In honor of Father's Day, I have to recommend the movie The Pursuit of Happiness based on the true life story of Chris Gardner (portrayed by Will Smith onscreen.)   An amazing story about perseverance and steadfast parenting, Chris Gardner is an inspiration to us all.  One of my favorite parts of the movie is when his son is playing basketball, and Chris has a moment where he discourages his son from playing basketball, saying basically, don't waste your time shooting hoops all day.  But, he quickly realizes the error in this message and states the following: 

“Don’t ever let somebody tell you…you CAN’T do something.  Not even me, allright?  You gotta dream?  You gotta protect it.

People who can’t do something themselves, they wanna tell you, you can’t do it either.  You want something?   Go get it, period.”

I have this on my bulletin board in front of my laptop now.  Thanks Chris for motivating all of us.  

June 13, 2008

Hey Dads & Grandpas, this one is for you!  Thanks for all you do day in and day out for and WITH your kids!  A special note to my dad, who is the absolute winner of the #1 Greatest Dad award.  I have heard rumors there are other dads who fit this bill as well!   But honestly, I could not ask for a better dad that has supported me through every step and twist and turn in my 37 years so far.  He has taught me so much about life, love, integrity and serving others.  Cheers to you Dad!  You are the best!

June 12, 2008

Your Child Could Star in a Bright Start Commercial
Families who enter the contest will compete for a $1,000 Bright Start investment account and the chance to have their home video air as a commercial on major television outlets statewide in December.
The home video contest entries should depict similar challenging moments that parents raising children face on a daily basis and include a suggested slogan in this format: "(Fill in the blank) is hard. College savings doesn't have to be."   Full details on our Dollars & Sense page here.

June 11, 2008

High School Football Athletes!  Pass along to your friends with high school age football players!  On June 21st and 22nd , the McNabb Challenge, a 2-day football camp, will be hosted by Springfield Public School District 186. Mr. Samuel McNabb, father of Philadelphia Eagles Quarterback Donovan McNabb, established this pro-football clinic and skills camp to provide aspiring student athletes an opportunity to showcase their athletic talents and skills. Participating student athletes get the opportunity to work with current and former professional football players. Donovan McNabb is making every effort to be at the camp.  All talented sophomore and junior student athletes are invited to attend this two day event which is specifically designed to allow the student athlete to gauge his own skill level against some of the best athletes from across the state of Illinois. The camp is being hosted by district 186, but is open to any student athlete interested in participating. The McNabb Challenge is June 21 & 22, 2008, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. each day at Memorial Stadium. The fee for the camp is $50, which includes a T-shirt, lunches and films that will go to the coaches. A limited number of scholarships will be available to ensure that all who wish to participate have the opportunity. The McNabb Challenge has set a limit and is prepared to engage up to 400 participants for this two-day event. Those interested in signing up for the camp should visit the SEADO Enterprises website at www.seadoenterprises.com and download all forms to fill out and return to SEADO, along with your registration fee by June 15th.

June 10, 2008

Welcome to the new Springfield Sliders Baseball team.  Friday June 13th they will play the Dupage Dragons at 7:05 p.m. out at Lanphier Park.  You can find the complete schedule, pricing info and special promotions on www.springfieldsliders.com

June 9, 2008

Priceless: Today was the second day of my morning "jog" with my 6-year old which involved finding our first ladybug in the grass, looking for rainbow gazing balls in peoples yards, and lots of water breaks!  We just went around our neighborhood, but it was such fun having her be part of my normal "alone time" escape!  She really felt grown up "running with Mommy!"  It was a good parenting moment, which we all need from time to time to keep going!  She wrote about our time together in her summer journal, and I am quickly reminded that the thing my kids want most from me is my time and full attention.  

The Friends of Lincoln Library are holding their Summer Book Sale Friday June 13th from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. at the main library location, downtown on 7th and Capitol Avenue.

June 8, 2008

My sibling daughters are adjusting to being around each other a lot more than during the school year, which means the nit-picking and rivalry is in full force!

I am trying to get them both busy in activities and even replicating the "banana tree" of good behavior from the kindergarten classroom.  Whatever visuals can help around here!

Some extra things I am going to squeeze into our schedule.

Don't miss these terrific FREE programs this summer in the Springfield area:

Illinois State Museum:  Summer Movie Series  FREE admission! flier here 

Kerasotes Theaters:  Summer Movie Series at ShowPlace East 8 on Dirksen Parkway  FREE admission this year flier here

Summer Reading Programs at area public libraries. More here.

June 6, 2008

Summer Swim  We updated our Swimming Lessons Directory and welcome new sponsor Hale Chiropractic & Aquatic Center.  They start new beginner swim lesson on June 9th!  It's not too late and class prices average to just $5 per class!

Pampered Pooch Contest!  Visit www.ohmydogonline.com and enter your spoiled furry one into this contest!  Don't miss her $5 off your first $25 purchase coupon here, exclusive for our readers.

June 5, 2008 

I tried not to work too much today, as we celebrated the first day with NO school!  The result?  Well, lots of sibling squabbles and adjustments! 

The transition for our kindergartener from being at school to being at back at home with me has been a challenge.   I am hoping that she will adjust over the next few days here!   Now that she can read, I will have to be careful what I write on this blog page!  I am so amazed at how much children grow physically, emotionally and educationally in that ONE year. 

June 4, 2008

Qdoba Grill on Iles near Sam's Club offers a kids eat free option.  Sundays from 10:30-9:00 p.m. Kids 12 and under eat free with the purchase of an adult entree.

Kids can choose from a Taco or Cheese Quesadilla, chips and small drink; a great deal!  Phone 217-787-0000.   If you find a new spot we don't already have on our Kids Eat Free Dining Guide, let us know! 

The WDBR Dogwash is back! Join us Saturday, June 7th from 10:30a to 1:30pm at Car Wash City as we wash your dirty dogs! It's only $8 for small dogs, $10 for medium dogs and $12 for large dogs. You can also microchip your dogs for only $15. All proceeds benefit Illinois Humane.   Then head over to Michaels on Veterans Parkway for a FREE Family Event 10 am- 2pm Saturday June 7th. Make your own Paper Flowers and Chenille Stem Bugs.  

June 3, 2008

Mom's Night Out ends abruptly!  I attempted a mom's night out with some friends to see the debut of the movie "Sex and the City," but the storms last Friday evening sent 100's of women into the bathrooms of Kerasotes Theaters just 20 minutes into the show.  I know all of you that were in Springfield in 2006 for the big tornado do not discount the seriousness of a warning.  But, it was a humbling and scary feeling to be crammed in a bathroom away from my family wondering if they were okay.  Rumors from cell phones and text messages were filled with not so reliable information.  "There's been one spotted near TGIFriday's and ShopKo we heard."   Needless to say, as soon as the warnings were over, we were all thrilled to leave and head to our families; the movie premiere had lost its luster!   We still have our Tornado Safety Checklist on the website! 

However, back to the fabulous fashions of "Sex and the City," we are thrilled to welcome ShoeTopia to our website!  Don't miss their fantastic, fun, shoe store downtown.  It's well worth the trip, and redeem your $5 off coupon to make it even more pleasant on your first stop!  You'll see me in metallic gladiator style sandals I found there this morning!  I will have to wear them to my re-run version of Mom's Night out. 

May 30, 2008

This week flew by.  I can't believe school is almost out.  TGIF! We are working on a lot of home improvements around the house lately.  Decluttering, downsizing and tweaking where we need to!   We are also working on a lot of improvements for the website too.  Next week there will be several NEW coupons for you and your family!   I did make the Corkscrew Saturday wine tasting last week (and redeemed my $1 Tasting coupon (regular $5),  it was a lot of fun!  Want to try Scuba? Adventure Dive is offering a free scuba trial!  Print your coupons from Mom's  Choice!

ZUMBA is a hit at the Springfield YMCA.  Don't miss their fun new class and great summer membership promo.  Details here!

May 28, 2008

Your Child Could Star in a Bright Start Commercial
The winning home video receives $1,000 scholarship! State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias wants Illinois parents to submit home videos of their children for his first-ever Bright Start College Savings Program scholarship and commercial contest. For more information, visit Dollars and Sense.

NEW! Fetch Lab with Ruff Ruffman from PBS.  Our school had our end of year party at the Children's Discovery Museum in Normal last week.  It was a hit with the kids and adults!  They just launched a new activity feature all summer long in the new FETCH Lab.   Activities begin the week of June 7 and take place at both 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. daily. Activities are free with paid admission of $4 per person ages 2 and above.   Children under the age of 2 are free.   See the Museum's website for the schedule of activities- www.ChildrensDiscoveryMuseum.net and the Family Fun Night on June 7th will be full of prizes and fun! 

May 27, 2008

The Places We Go Graduations are happening all around our community.  It's a time to reflect on how fast the years go by and to celebrate the futures ahead.  One of my favorite gifts for young and old is Oh, the Places You'll Go!  by Dr. Suess.  I highly recommend that everyone reads this again as it speaks to us all.   He walks us through life lessons in rhyme and his one-of-a-kind art. 

 "You have brains in your head.  You have feet in your shoes.  You can steer yourself in any direction you choose."  He goes on to talk about the funon the way up, you'll fly at the top, but watch out for the hang-ups and bang-ups, the waiting place, the "left in a lurch", hitting bumps and slumps, hanging in the waiting place, and getting mixed up with "many strange birds as you go!"  But will we all succeed?  According to Suess, it's 98 3/4 percent guaranteed!  Not bad!?

I just heard from an area dad about Illinois Raptor Center Youth Raptor Camps starting June 9th-13th and June 23-27 at the Illinois Raptor Center in Decatur.  It's for ages 11-14 and his son attended last year and loved it!  If you would like to carpool with another Springfield family and have your child attend this camp in Decatur, please contact me.   For details about IRC call 217-963-6909 and tell them you heard about it on SpringfieldMoms.org

May 26, 2008

Happy Memorial Day and a special salute to our Military Moms, Dads and Grandparents.  Thanks for all you do to protect and serve our country today and everyday.  

May 24, 2008

A new activity camp offering for Ages 5-11:  Open to members and non-members! THE JUNIOR LEAN TEAM begins June 2nd.  

M T W F 1:00-3;00 p.m.  two week sessions (June 2nd-June 13, June 23-July 4, July 14-July 25)
For more info, call Springfield Racquet and Fitness Center 787-2460. 

Piper Glen Golf Camps for Pee Wee Golf Camp for ages 7 and under AND Golf Camps for ages 8-17.  This beautiful public golf course has a complete range of golf camps and tournaments for junior golfers.  Full details on our Summer Camp Directory. 

Did you receive our informative e-update today in your INBOX?  If not, register on the home page (top, center box) so you will get the timely and free e-updates and stay in the loop on all of the events, new resources and coupons on our website! 

Congrats to the Junior League of Springfield for coordinating a FUN cooking event for kids ages 8-12.  Now have YOUR child submit a recipe for the NEW Kids in the Kitchen Cookbook being published by St. John's Children's Hospital and the Junior League of Springfield.  Printable flier with details here or contact the Junior League at 217-787-7802 deadline May 31, 2008.

See below for the blood drive going on today!

May 22, 2008

Join WDBR at the Central IL Community Blood Center for the Day of Giving Blood Drive on Friday, May 23^rd from 8am-3pm. 

Listeners that stop out and donate or attempt to donate can receive 3 of the following items, one to keep, and 2 to give to others. 

Pease’s Candy Shops – 50 boxes of 2 packs of candy

Sherman Dairy Queen – certs for blizzards and waffle bowl sundaes

Painter’s Paradise - $5 off certs

True Colors Floral Artistry – 50 flowers

It’s A Wrap – 50 balloons

Going Green in the Workplace!  Make a difference in your office.  May 28 9am-1pm Workplace Recycling in Springfield, INB Center, 4^th & Jackson.   FREE, but registration is required at 789-2327 or wynne.coplea@cwlp.com  More info here

May 21, 2008

The Old Capitol Farmer's Market in downtown Springfield opens today!  Every Wednesday and Saturday morning from 8am to 1 pm you can head downtown between 3rd and 5th street on Adams and find a bounty of local, fresh produce!  To inspire healthy eating for all of us, we asked Sara Lopinski, Registered Dietician at the Center for Living at St. John's Hospital for some guidance.  Check out these articles on Building a Better Salad and more.

May 20, 2008

SpringfieldMoms.org LOGO merchandise online! Thanks to Jen Dillman for setting up this very cool online shop for Springfield Moms baseball hats, T's for adults, kids and baby onesies! 

You'll also find a carry-all canvas bag, mousepad, a trendy T for your dog and more!  Cafe Press will print it and ship to you.   Shop the SpringfieldMoms.org store online.   So, we hope you will shop the SpringfieldMoms.org store and help us advertise in style!    Kim's Picks:   White Baseball Cap $14.99   Jr. Jersey Shirt for Mom (white, pink or lt blue) $19.99 Canvas Bag $14.99 and Infant Bib $6.99 for a unique shower add on!   Click the banner ad below and have FUN!  

May 19, 2008

Springfield Moms contributor Julie Kaiser wrote in with a tried and true “getting ready for summer” strategy: “This past weekend, I took my first grader to Olive Garden for our third annual Summer Pow-Wow,just him and me. With a pad of paper in hand, I asked him the following questions: What fun things do you want to do this summer? What new chores do you want to help out with? And what rules do you think will be important for us to live with this summer? Carefully I listened and took notes. Then I shared my own thoughts with him. Now I know that he really wants to play in the sprinkler, have a board game contest on rainy days and visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum among many other things!   He is willing to help sweep out the garage and sort laundry. He will take his shoes off before coming in, try not to hit or push his sister and put his outside toys away every evening. Bedtime will be moved back to 8:00 lights out with radio until 8:30. Best part besides the breadsticks? He feels invested in the outcome of our summer, and I have a plan for us to implement.  This has been a fun way to kick off the summer in our household the past couple of years."

I took Julie's advice and we made our own list as well!  Now when the kids hit that "I'm bored!" time in the summer, we will head straight to the list! 

May 17, 2008

New workout products; you be the judge. With pool season fast approaching, I thought it would be timely to share a few new fitness products that I like. I love sugar and could not believe it when I read about www.sportbeans.com I couldn't believe "Jelly Belly" has gone healthy?  These jelly beans taste just as good as the originals and are packed with vitamins B & C and electrolytes and come in fruit punch, berry blue and lemon lime.  Thankfully they are pre-packed in 100 calorie bags.  $1 for a one-ounce bag.  The website says they are available at Target, if you find them somewhere else let us know!   I know it's a stretch, but if I can eat Jelly Belly's in lieu of drinking Gatorade that works for me!   I am hopeful to get back into my walking and running regime.  I am interested in a new Sports  Bra lines,   Vapor sports bras by Champion, that are made from activate carbon and coconut derivatives which keep moisture and odor away, cools your body and shields from UV rays.   Who knew coconut could be so cool and comfortable? They are pricey at $40 each, but I have decided if I actually stick to my new exercises regime for 2 weeks, I am going to reward myself!   For the full line, check out  www.championcatalog.com

I hit some area garage sales with my 4 year-old thanks to our helpful list of neighborhood garage sales that you our readers have submitted!  It's quite a list.  We spent $4 and got a bag full of books and little toys to keep my young ones busy.   One man's trash is another man's treasure indeed.  A direct quote  "Mommy, these are the best things I have ever seen!"  

May 16, 2008

Want to do some online shopping to benefit the local non-profit Computer Banc?  Shop their online auction from May 16th- May May 22nd right here: http://www.computerbanc.info/.

Great Birthday Gift for a Friend:  This gift idea applies to any age; a real treat!  I want to thank my friend Amy for giving our  4 year-old the best birthday present ever; time with her friend! 

She received a lovely card that invited her to lunch, wearing princess attire of her choice, and followed by an ice cream treat.  What was originally going to be a Tea Thyme style lunch and Baskin Robbins treat turned into Subway followed by a trip to DEALS to pick out a few dollars of "treasures!"   It was such a wonderful outing for her, and for me, I got a few hours to myself to multi-task!  Thank you Amy for this VERY thoughtful gift!  Time together truly is the best gift of all!   My sister did the same thing for my birthday; she took my youngest for some quality time with auntie while I had some time to myself. 

There's a lot of fun going on this weekend in town!  Head downtown for the Old State Capitol Art Fair and the Illinois Wineries Tent, or head out west to the Centennial Park Parade of Homes and the Summer Jamboree in Centennial Park.  All of the scoop is on What's Happening.  

May 15, 2008

Kindness Flowers  Springfield Moms Series Editor Jen Dillman alerted us to “Kindness Flowers.”   Not for kids only!  Jen writes: “At my daughter’s preschool, they have kindness flowers to recognize when they are kind to each other.  One day, my daughter received one for playing nicely with her friend. That evening I was with a group of adults and decided to recognize a colleague for his kind act to me – giving a kindness flower of my own (although I didn’t make the comparison until the next day). Unfortunately, unlike preschool where the kids give each other a high five, a pat on the back, and a way to go, my peers made a joke and laughed.  It made me realize that sometimes we can all use a reminder of the basic lessons we learned in preschool.”

Those of you dealing with newly potty trained kids.  Here is a helpful tip from a Springfield Mom of 6, Teri Brandt!  Read more on Tips You Can Trust.

May 14, 2008

Priorities: I was out yesterday spending the day with my youngest for one of her IV medical treatments where we spend the day at St. John's Children's Hospital.  Our family knows first-hand the challenges that a chronic medical condition brings.  Nobody likes it when their kids don't feel well; that is a fact we can all agree upon.  We were thrilled to see so many familiar faces on the pediatric floor.  For those of you who haven't needed the services at SJCH yet, just knowing that we have first-class care and over 50 pediatric specialties (and it's growing!) right her in our backyard.    You are in good hands.   One of the blessings of these treatment days is the quality time we get together; we read, color, watch her favorite shows and always find some reasons to laugh despite the reason we are there.  My family and friends have been such an amazing support system through all of it!  Life stops for awhile when our kids are down, and then we all pick our chins up and move forward.

May 12, 2008

Need help caring for your lawn?  Thank you and welcome to our two new lawn care sponsors:  Bryant Lawn Service and Matheis Lawn Service.  You'll be in good hands! 

Okay moms, the party is over...back to work, school, errands, laundry, bills....domestic bliss!

May 11, 2008

Happy Mother's Day to all of our readers.  I enjoyed a morning filled with homemade cards and special crafts made just for Mom at school.  There is truly no better gift for a mom than something created by her child!   I love them!  Dad took over morning duties so I could sleep in and drink my coffee while it was still warm!  We had a wonderful brunch with my mom, my sister and their family.  I had planned to spend the afternoon going to the Parade of Homes (cancelled today due to the nasty weather) and doing some shopping, but I traded all of that for a quality nap!  Two hours later, I was rejuvenated! 

A funny quote from a friend of mine:  "I am not my mother, therefore, I am."    As I get older (and wiser,) I find more ways that my mom and I share similarities even though we are also quite different.  The most common bond we share today is wanting to be with our families and cherishing nothing more than what they bring to our life.  Cheers to you Moms!!   Dads, we are excited o celebrate you in June! 

part two: I received this nice email at 11:30pm tonight.  " I would like to wish all the Moms of this wonderful group a very happy mother's day!"  Vasanta Mushunuri-Karri

I would like to say thank you to ALL of our readers for supporting each other and continually taking the time to thank those who give so much of their time and talents to help Springfield Moms GROW!

May 9, 2008

New initiative seeks community involvement

A new community partnership, the Continuum of Learning, will strive to ensure all in Sangamon County are Ready to Learn, Ready to Work and Ready to Succeed.
Three coordinating partners will lead this initiative including: the Sangamon County Community Foundation and their Community Works Initiative, The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce through the Business/Education Partnership of Sangamon County and United Way of Central Illinois. Each of these partners has committed to provide support and resources as the Springfield community moves forward in setting a new vision to ensure everyone in Sangamon County is Ready to Learn, Ready to Work and Ready to Succeed.   Community members are encouraged to become involved in the process by contacting an action team. To learn more about this community partnership, visit www.ContinuumOfLearning.com

Tee time:  WSEC-TV/PBS Springfield has a few openings for its 12th Annual Golf Scramble May 15th at The Rail.   $400 per foursome/$100 per golfer.  Lunch, cart, goodie bag and dinner included. Proceeds benefit Children’s Programming Info available at 217-483-7887, x222

May 7, 2008 PART 2

The week is racing on despite wanting extra time to catch up!  I know you all can relate. I have tried sprinkling pepper around the windows to get rid of the ants, and it IS making a difference!  Tonight we had a meeting for our preschool which means a large group of the moms found an excuse to get out of the bedtime routine at home and go out for a late dinner!

I just came home and both girls are asleep, and the house is restful.   Of course, the dogs immediately begged me for food and attention; those puppy dog eyes!

I have emails in my inbox from several of our readers who are also on their computers late at night, which makes me feel normal!  

I'd like to say thank you to Julie Kaiser, our Director of Communications, who spent a few hours with me today to map out our Editorial Calendar for the next 6 months or so; she is so giving of her time and talents every week to make www.springfieldmoms.org a website families can rely on for accurate and informative updates.  Thanks Julie!

May 7, 2008

Mini O’Beirne Crisis Nursery Golf Outing May 22nd

The 19th annual Crisis Nursery Golf Outing begins at noon at Piper Glen Golf Club with a shotgun start, followed by dinner and awards.  There will be prizes for the longest drive, longest putt and closest to the pin.  Mulligans will be sold and there will also be a raffle for a $250 cash prize.  Come enjoy a day of golf and help support the Nursery’s mission to prevent child abuse and neglect.  To register, visit www.miniobeirne.org .  If you don’t golf but still want to support the Nursery, drop off the following items from their Wish List: leaf bags, Lysol liquid concentrate, gift cards, children’s hair conditioner, Gerber graduates, Gerber state 3 baby food and tote bins.  Location: 1101 North Seventh Street.  Phone: 525-6800.

May 6, 2008

Looking for a chance to win a window treatment makeover for your home?  Local mom and sponsor, Susan Day of Exciting Windows! is encouraging us to ENTER now through May 31, 2008 for the Michael Payne Exciting Windows $10,000 Makeover Sweepstakes!  You access the entry form here.  

Ants!  If anyone has a good trick for how to keep ants from climbing in my kitchen window again and again, please let me know!  I have heard shaking Borax (laundry detergent) on the window sill.  We have tried the sprays, but the fix is only temporary!  Any help, your tips will be posted, and you will be entered in the May prize drawing!

Amy Goldstein wrote in and said shake a pepper shaker all around counter edges, window sills wherever we see them!  It might take a few days, but I am trying it!

May 4, 2008

Clean Slate Today, Sunday, was filled with chores, laundry, lawn work and other domestic "bliss" items.  But, at least I can start of the week with empty hampers.  I'll be heading to the grocery store around 10:00 p.m., and I am never surprised at how many other moms and dads I see at this hour getting the basics.   "Oliver" the pig is coming to my house on Tuesday so I can give seal our $1585 donation to the Junior Heroes Campaign with a kiss!  My kids are so excited, they wanted to watch Charlotte's Web the DVD version one more time before he comes over!  Again, I am so grateful to our campaign sponsors, team leaders and media support for this important campaign.  If you haven't ever attended the Local Heroes breakfast put on by the American Red Cross, you can get a glimpse here.  It's a very inspiring event.  

Quote to share to start my week of right.  'Never let the fear of making a mistake keep you from action.  Mistakes are essential for your success! " A nice quote by Ann Elliott to apply to any aspect of your adult or child's life!

May 2, 2008

It's been an intense and busy work week, and I am exhausted!  You know those days where you feel like you are going backwards in your to do list? I just lost two hours of work due to a computer glitch,  and I am leaving in one hour to the hospital for a medical procedure!  UGH!  So, I will start fresh and redo that project tomorrow and am actually looking forward to my nap and anesthesia!  I think that is a real sign of TGIF!   On a happy note, our Spring Into Summer Newsletter is LIVE and fabulously FULL of 20 helpful articles from local parents.  Thanks to all contributors and Julie Kaiser, Jen Madiar, & Dawn Diveley for getting it all pretty, polished and ready to go!  ENJOY and forward to your friends!   See that Wine Tasting coupon above from The Corkscrew?  I hope to redeem that tomorrow!

May 1, 2008

Spring Cleaning  I did the nasty refrigerator clean-out this week-- removing all shelves and drawers, cleaning them spotless; so at least for one day, our refrigerator looks brand new, and you can see everything in it!  I have avoided a massive stock pile grocery run; I don't want to mess it up!  Being a mom that truly doesn't enjoy cooking in the kitchen, you will see my refrigerator is full of condiments which amounts to a whole bunch of nothing!   I got rid of a bunch and made room for the soon to be bounty of fresh and local produce coming to the Downtown Springfield Farmer's Market which opens in a preview day May 14th and regular market on May 21st.  I can make a salad and serve fruit!

Dining Out: Speaking of not cooking, although Culver's doesn't have a kids eat free night that we LOVE to feature on our website, I do think it's a good value for their kiddie meal.  For about $4 in addition to the standard "entree", they offer applesauce or fries , milk or soft drink and who can resist the custard at the end.  They even let adults order kids meals with no guilt!   My favorite kids eat free location is either Sunday's at Xochilmilco OR Tuesday nights are Perkins (breakfast items at dinner is always fun and they still have the clown come by!)

Know of any other good family-friendly and bargain meals in the area that aren't already on our list?

April 30, 2008

Note: parents it's PG-13, so pre-screen as needed if you want to show to your older kids.  A fellow reader suggested we rent "Gracie" a movie about a teenager girl who wants to play soccer on the varsity boys squad.  It's produced by Andrew Shue (for those of us who watched Melrose Place in the 80's) and based on his sister Elisabeth Shue who watched Andrew play and was inspired to follow him. I  Again, it's PG-13, so watch for lots of teenage hormones and some rebellious scenes, but overall it is very inspiring for girls and boys and a tear-jerker too!   Do you have some inspiring sports movies to recommend?  Email us.   Need a laugh log on to YouTube and search comedian "Jim Gaffigan" I love him!
 

Research Project Request:  Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign are looking to talk to moms who have been physically hurt by their child’s father and who have ever experienced a separation in their relationships. If you might be interested in participating in a private, one-time interview within a safe setting, please contact Lyndal Khaw at (217) 333-6924 or khaw@uiuc.edu . Participants will receive $30.

April 29, 2008

Snow?! Jen Dillman and I were downtown yesterday when the rain turned into a two-minute snow-storm yesterday!  It left us speechless!  At home, our family is enjoying watching a robin build a bird nest on top of a drain pipe right outside our kitchen window.  We saw him stuff the first piece in and have been checking on it ever since.  We are very hopeful all goes well with the full nest construction so we can watch the mother and babies to follow.    

More Summer Camp options:  We continue to add and update the camp directory.  Painter's Paradise and Lutheran High School and Camp Aspire a new camp for autistic children are now featured.  I am amazed at the variety of camp offerings available!   Hope you can all find something you are interested in.  We are also updating our Birthday Party page, if you have any suggested locations not on the master list, please email us.

All of the team leaders involved in the Local Junior Heroes Campaign should pat themselves on the back.  Together we raised $1585 for the American Red Cross.  You will hear more about this in our newsletter posting May 1, 2008, but you can preview the winners of our Team Leader Sponsor prizes here.  Congrats and thanks to all! 

April 28, 2008

It's Cover the Uninsured Week and SIU School of Medicine is conducting a free Health Fair on Saturday May 3rd, 2008 from 2:00-3:00 p.m. at the Boys and Girls Club. 

More details here.

Tribute to our Troops If you know of anyone that is serving in the middle east,  Sentimental Services created a "thank you and reminder of what they are fighting for" video that we have been mailing to the troops serving over in the middle east.   Contact Paul Olshefsky at Sentimental Services if you know of a military mom or dad that should receive a free copy.  Thanks!
 

TV Turn off week lessons learned Springfield Moms contributor Julie Kaiser and her family completed the TV Turn-Off challenge but it came down to the wire in a close finish: "I really had my doubts on Friday morning when I had a house to clean, work deadlines looming, and my 3-year-old was hanging off my leg wanting my complete and undivided attention," Julie admitted. "But she decided to go check on her pet turtle she and her brother had found earlier in the week when they played outside for hours and hours, and I resisted the temptation to let National TV Turn-Off Week crash and burn. We created an Ice Cream Sundae-Fest to reward the kids (and ourselves!) after it was all over. All in all -- a valuable experiment!"  

Now my turn!  Our family fared pretty well.  My two young daughters and I held firm from Sunday-Friday (Dad dropped out early but watched after the kids were asleep. )  But by day 6 on Saturday I was feeling quite behind, and I broke down and let them watch a DVD, Flipper, while I caught up in the office.  I think they needed some quiet time and I did too!   But we did have 6 days without TV, and it was a good lesson for our family in being conscious of not choosing the TV as the first way to start the day or to unwind.  I enjoyed hearing the girls spend hours playing with barbies, polly pockets and we painted a lot of seashells from our recent vacation!   

April 27, 2008

My daughter brought home pock rock candy from a birthday party recently.  I sneaked some when she wasn't looking for two reasons.  1.  I love anything sugary!  2.  Nostalgia! 

I am dating myself, but those of us who were very young in the 70's, remember the rumor that Mikey (the boy from the Life cereal commercial "He likes it, hey mikey!") had his stomach "blow up" because he drank soda with his pop rocks.  I hope some of you are laughing and nodding out there.  It's amazing how some of those crazy rumors last over time.  If anyone googles him and finds out if Mikey is still alive, you will be entered in our May prize drawing!   As always any tips or resource submissions get your name entered!  

This month we are giving away something for Mom; a $50 shopping spree to The Body Shop at Home compliments of Stephanie Fuller. 

Congrats to Jennifer Weisenberger, Lisa Barutcu and Terra McParland for winning the American Girl Book Reading tickets compliments of www.abelincolnmuseum.org!  Hope you enjoyed it.

April 26, 2008

We had a great time at Family Safety Day today!  We met a lot of new readers and current readers.  All of the kids looked great in their new, free bike helmets!  Thanks to Allison Klint for creating our bike safety quiz and making sure we had fun stickers and informative handouts for families.  Thanks also to Maya Borski & Rebecca Carter for volunteering their time at our booth.  Thanks also to our sponsor B.J. Halford from Farmer's Insurance for providing free Child ID safety kits, bike safety brochures and more to all who stopped by our booth.  

April 24, 2008

I was in for a treat this week, as I tried the Reflexology treatment at Lift & Firm.  Suzi, the reflexologist, has done this for 40 years, and you will learn so much about your body during this treatment! 

I also did the ION treatment which removes toxins from the body through a negative charge; hard to explain, but pretty amazing when you see what can happen in 30 minutes!

Thanks to Lift & Firm for creating a Mother's Day package for all of us:   facial, massage and reflexology $30 off OR choose just one service at $10 off!

You deserve a break; access the coupon here. 

On the home front, I am continually challenged with the challenges of working from home!   The workload and piles of to do items are always just around the corner.  I am learning to CLOSE my door to really get away and continue to try not to abuse the "no computer" from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. rule I set for myself (but my kids have caught me several times!)  No matter what your schedule is, I know we all struggle with the good ole  "so much to do, so little time."   The goal of our website is to SAVE you time overall!  We have done so much for the research and prep work for you on as many resources as we can gather!  We continue to expand.   Thanks for your loyal support.    Hope to meet some of you at Safe Family Saturday tomorrow!!  It's a big weekend for event, check What's Happening.  

April 23, 2008

Day 3 on TV Turn off week!  My husband has bailed out, but the kids and I are hanging tough!  The sign on the TV says, play outside, read or create, no TV!

High School families!  The ALPLM's Summer Scholars program will run 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every weekday from July 28 to August 8.   Students will work with educators, visit historic sites and attend workshops led by historians, multi-media professionals and museum staff and will design a Web site commemorating the 1908 Springfield race riot.  To apply, students must be entering sophomore, junior or senior year next fall or have graduated from high school this year.   They must also submit a detailed application, available at www.alplm.org/education/summer_scholars.html   Deadline May 1, 2008!

Clean-up time! After school yesterday, my inspired kindergartener came home and wanted to walk the neighborhood and collect bags of trash in honor of earth day!  We easily filled 3 bags in just a few blocks--!

Hopefully everyone driving by will think twice before they