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It’s Testing Time! Tips for Getting Through M-STEP Season

By
Kelly L
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The Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress (M-STEP) begins in April for students throughout the state and continues into May. Schools will begin testing shortly after students return from spring break.  

Although standardized tests have become more controversial over the years, they can be an important measure of how our students are performing and the content they are mastering within each subject-area. Educators and schools across the state use this information to inform future curricular decisions to improve instruction and student achievement. It is also one measure for parents on their child’s academic achievement.

It is important to encourage your child to do his or her best. Testing can be very stressful on kids. Here are some tips to help your child be prepared for testing.

Before Testing

Mark testing days on the calendar

This will help reduce anxiety and help students prepare for a change in their daily routine.

Encourage your child to do their best

Maintaining a positive attitude and letting your child know that you have confidence that they can tackle the test has a big impact on student performance.

Attendance

Double check the testing dates to ensure that your child will be in school on the testing days. It is understandable that illness and emergencies pop-up, however, try to avoid scheduling appointments or activities that could interfere with the school day. When students have to make-up missed testing, there is the potential that they will miss important instruction.

During Testing

Breakfast

Make sure to feed your child breakfast the morning of testing. Sending your child off to school after a filling and healthy breakfast will give them the energy and focus they need and improve mood.

Send snacks

More than likely, students will have several break periods built into their testing session. Having a healthy snack will keep their energy up and keep them motivated.  

Put them to bed early

We all know the benefits to a good night sleep. Being well-rested prior to a testing day can make a world of difference on student performance and focus.

After Testing

Provide down time and fun activities after testing days

Teachers are encouraged to keep homework to a minimum during testing periods. Because testing can be long and stressful, it is nice to give your child a break at the end of the day.  Consider planning activities that will give them a chance to socialize, talk, and move with their whole body. Physical activity can help reduce any stress, exhaustion, or frustration that child can often feel before, during, and after testing.

Be positive

Overall, these tests are only one measure of what a child knows and what they have learned. Standardized tests can inform teachers and parents of the content students have learned, but do not demonstrate their creativity, talent, and unique learning style. As you talk with your child about testing, whether it be before, during, or after, remind them of their strengths and the reasons you believe they will do well on testing day.

In the end, our children will benefit greatly based on how we as parents help them prepare for testing. What are your tips for helping your kids get through their standardized test?

Introducing Lindsay Katherine Murphy: A South Lyon Mom

By
Lindsay Katherine Murphy
-

Introducing Lindsay!

:: Down with Detroit ::

Hello! My name is Lindsay and I am a 29-year-old wife to my tech-loving hubby, Ryan, and SAHM to my sweet baby boy, William. Our family also includes a bouncing French Bulldog named Rosie! 

My husband and I met in 8th grade way back in the heydays of butterfly clips and braces. Fast forward a few decades and you’ll find us quickly approaching our 4th Wedding Anniversary. Ryan is a graduate of Grand Valley State University and is currently pursuing his Master’s degree in Information Technology from Lawrence Technical University. He is an Engineer and specializes in Data Center and Cloud-Computing (I’m still trying to figure out what that is exactly, but I know it doesn’t involve an actual cloud).

Now that my son is no longer an infant, I hope that my involvement with DMB can act as a springboard for me to dive deeper into the Metro-Detroit community. A few of our local faves to frequent are both Kensington Metropark and Maybury Farm. We also love the Detroit Zoo! As my son grows, I look forward to adventures at local museums, The Detroit Science Center, Comerica Park, and other local family-friendly fares! 

:: My Life ::

I was born in Ohio, grew up in sunny California, and now reside in the booming city of South Lyon, Michigan. In the world of academics, I am a graduate of Novi High School and Albion College (Go Brits!) and hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Spanish. Writing has always been a passion of mine and Detroit Moms Blogs has afforded me a unique platform to share my voice.

Clock-wise from top left: My family, my son at age 6.5 months, Rosie the French Bulldog, my wedding photo, William at 2-months-old

Outside of “Momming”, writing, and attempting to cook, I am a girly-girl, a fitness enthusiast, and fashionista who adores all things pretty and pink. Because of this, I always knew that I would be a “Boy Mom” and I couldn’t love it more! I also adore fresh-cut roses, sleep (ha!), long walks down the aisles at T.J.Maxx, social media, red wine, sweaty yoga sessions and dry wit. My “Dream Job” would be voice-acting for Disney Pixar!

Most days I like to think of myself as a domestic housewife, but the truth is is that I prefer yoga pants and fuzzy socks to an apron and heels and my husband couldn’t care less that my homemade muffins are made from a box. One time (one time), I actually made dinner in its entirety before my son woke up from his nap and I felt like a super hero.

New parenthood has taught me to relish the small things. My perspective on parenting is fresh and raw because I’m only 8 months into this new job and most days I have no clue what I’m doing . . . yet I try my best to do it anyway. Some days I shower and generate blog-worthy prose during my son’s nap. Other days I just survive. I survive new-parent exhaustion, elation, depression, joy, anxiety, guilt, and a million other emotions that no blog/journal/doctor/friend/unsolicited grocery store granny ever prepared me for. Being a mother is the hardest job I’ve ever had. But it is by far the most rewarding.

My weaknesses include teaching my mini to sleep (is this really something that needs to be taught??), battling daily new-mom guilt, being too hard on myself, and quite truthfully, learning to let go of my perfectionist tendencies. My strengths stem from my Zodiac sign (the Scorpio): I am strong and sensitive, deeply intuitive, and fiercely loyal. I also have a mean grip on grammar and an affinity for spotting sales (did I mention that I LOVE to shop?!). 

:: Babies & Beyond ::

Picking pumpkins at Maybury Farm

At 8-months-old, my son is wide-eyed and fascinated by the world around him. William has the sweetest heart and the most beautiful brown baby eyes. He is my greatest blessing and adventure . . . and inspiration for what’s to come here at DMB! William is my daily dose of “sonshine” and it is a privilege to be his Momma. If my baby is not playing with blocks or books, you can find him mad army-scooting towards our dog’s water bowl, holding his own spoon, and doling out wet baby kisses. 

Before the birth of our son, my husband and I battled infertility. I also suffered a severe and debilitating episode of Postpartum Depression and Anxiety after William’s birth in the summer of 2016. Today, I am in remission and use writing as an outlet to heal. Speaking of healing, William is currently undergoing cranial molding therapy and wears a helmet to aid in the correction of Plagiocephaly and Brachycephaly. My baby wears his helmet for 23-hours-per-day and is a little champ! His resilience and positive attitude inspire my own warrior-attitude to be a powerful advocate for his condition.

William at age 7-months (left) & 8-months-old (right)

By contributing my voice here at Detroit Moms Blog, I hope to connect with other moms and dads in the Metro-Detroit community, swap stories, and gain insight in a non-judgmental, supportive environment. I do NOT support mom-shaming because I believe that every parent is doing the best job that she/he can do. I believe that #fedisbest and that what works for one family may not work at all for the next. And that’s okay. 

 

Connect with me on Instagram @lindsaykatherinem! 

A Detroit Mom’s Guide to April

By
Amber Cross
-

Welcome to April, Mamas!  As we head into what we hope will be warmer weather and spring time beauty, we have some great events going on for you and your beautiful families!  DMB especially has a great event coming up for you on April 15 – our Easter Eggstravaganza at Total Sports in Farmington!  Tickets are on sale now, click here to get your family’s spots reserved!  As always – if you can think of any other events that need to be added to the list please please please let us know!  We love to hear from you!

April 1st - 7th

April 1, 2017

 Drop In Workshop: Bumblebee Luminaries 

Location :: The Ann Arbor Arts Center, 117 W. Liberty St., Ann Arbor
Time :: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free 

Come one, come all to create artful and fantastically foolish bumblebee luminaries! Make one of your own or work together as a family. Stop in at the Ann Arbor Art Center anytime between 10am-5pm. Instructors will be present at this fabulously fun workshop to guide you in the construction of your bee. “BEE” sure to join us later in the week as we swarm through the streets of downtown Ann Arbor with our bee luminaries during the FoolMoon procession and Festifools parade. Come to one or come to both! ((See website for other event dates and information!))

All materials will be provided, with the exception of lights for the luminary. If you do not have your own lights at home to illuminate your bee, lights will be available at the workshop for $5. We accept cash or credit.

Owl Festival

Location :: Lake St. Clair Metropark, 31300 Metro Parkway, Harrison Twp.
Time :: 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Cost :: $10 park entry fee and $4 for live owl programs

Find out more about these night time predators. Go on a walk where our Great Horned Owls nest, and meet some owls up close and personal! Come and just enjoy the day with our free, on-going programs for all ages. Live owl programs are recommended for ages 5 and up. Please preregister

Easter Eggstravaganza

Location :: Summit on the Park, 46000 Summit Pkwy., Canton
Time :: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Cost :: $3.00 residents, $4.00 non-residents

Bring the kids out to enjoy a variety of Easter and spring-themed activities! Maximize your experience by registering for the Easter Bunny Breakfast which takes place just prior to to this event in the Summit’s Grand Ballroom! No pre-registration is necessary for the Easter Eggstravaganza, however there is a $3R/$4NR fee per child which can be paid for at the event.

We will run continuous egg hunts between 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. in two age categories to keep the “hunting” fair for even our littlest participants.

Please allow extra time for parking as this is historically a well-attended event. The grounds tend to be wet in the spring so please dress accordingly!

April 2, 2017

Fourth Annual Storytelling Festival

Location :: Detroit Historical Museum, 5401 Woodward Ave., Detroit
Time :: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free

Metro Detroit is wonderfully diverse and full of stories. Whether you are curious about cultural history or interested in the art of storytelling, we invite you to join us for our fourth annual Storytellers Festival on Sunday, April 2.

During the Storyteller’s Festival, representatives from several of Detroit’s ethnic communities will share their heritage through storytelling and traditional song and dance, highlighting their customs and unique storytelling traditions. Throughout the day, you will hear stories about Detroit’s dynamic innovators of past and present and the everyday people who overcame obstacles to make a difference in Detroit and our region. Explore creative ways to share your own stories through crafts and activities, or attend a storytelling workshop. 

April 3, 2017

Spring Into Science

Location :: Cranbrook Institute of Science, 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills
Time :: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Cost :: See museum website for admission rates

Spend Spring Break engaged in an exciting week of activities that will help you learn how to live a greener Life. Subjects include water conservation, the benefits of recycling, and make and take recycled art projects.

April 4, 2017

Spring Into Science

Location :: Cranbrook Institute of Science, 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills
Time :: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Cost :: See museum website for admission rates

Spend Spring Break engaged in an exciting week of activities that will help you learn how to live a greener Life. Subjects include water conservation, the benefits of recycling, and make and take recycled art projects.

April 5, 2017

Spring Into Science

Location :: Cranbrook Institute of Science, 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills
Time :: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Cost :: See museum website for admission rates

Spend Spring Break engaged in an exciting week of activities that will help you learn how to live a greener Life. Subjects include water conservation, the benefits of recycling, and make and take recycled art projects.

April 6, 2017

Detroit Shrine Circus

Location :: Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi
Time :: 7:00 p.m.
Cost :: $15- 20 per person

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages, this is your hometown circus, your glimpse of the majesty of the wild, your thrills of the high wire, your taste of the popcorn and hot dogs, your touch of the Shrine clown. Yes, this is your circus, the Shrine Circus, our community circus that like Spring brings wonder, energy, and happiness for young and old. This is the day when you get close no matter where you sit. You see. You feel. You laugh. You catch your breath. It’s about as classic Americana as it gets. And it started here, in Detroit.

Spring Into Science

Location :: Cranbrook Institute of Science, 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills
Time :: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Cost :: See museum website for admission rates

Spend Spring Break engaged in an exciting week of activities that will help you learn how to live a greener Life. Subjects include water conservation, the benefits of recycling, and make and take recycled art projects.

Kids in the Kitchen: Eating our Colors

Location :: The Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum, 220 E. Ann St., Ann Arbor
Time :: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Cost :: Non-member children $10, Member children $5 – cost covers one adult guest

Kids in kindergarten through 4th grade can join the Junior League of Ann Arbor, Inc. for our “Eating our Colors” evening workshop as part of the Kids in the Kitchen program. Do science experiments focused the color of food, make a nutritious snack, and do an activity. An adult is required to stay in the building and their admission to the museum is included in the ticket cost. Food provided by the People’s Food Co-op Ann Arbor

April 7, 2017

Little Engineers

Location :: Walled Lake City Library, 1499 E West Maple Rd., Walled Lake
Time :: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Cost :: Free 

We’ll get out all of our favorite building materials (blocks, playdough, Duplo bricks, stacking cups and more!), you supply the imagination. Drop in for a bit or stay the whole hour; this is an open-play session.

Detroit Shrine Circus

Location :: Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi
Time :: 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Cost :: $15- 20 per person

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages, this is your hometown circus, your glimpse of the majesty of the wild, your thrills of the high wire, your taste of the popcorn and hot dogs, your touch of the Shrine clown. Yes, this is your circus, the Shrine Circus, our community circus that like Spring brings wonder, energy, and happiness for young and old. This is the day when you get close no matter where you sit. You see. You feel. You laugh. You catch your breath. It’s about as classic Americana as it gets. And it started here, in Detroit.

First Free Friday presented by the MASCO Foundation

Location :: Cranbrook Institute of Science, 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills
Time :: After 5:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free

Courtesy of the MASCO Corporation Foundation, admission to the Institute of Science is free after 5pm the first Friday of each month through June 2017. Join us for a free evening of science fun! The Café and Observatory are open, and planetarium shows are offered at an additional charge.

Spring Into Science

Location :: Cranbrook Institute of Science, 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills
Time :: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Cost :: See museum website for admission rates

Spend Spring Break engaged in an exciting week of activities that will help you learn how to live a greener Life. Subjects include water conservation, the benefits of recycling, and make and take recycled art projects.

April 8th - 14th

April 8, 2017

Clawson Easter Egg Hunt

Location :: Clawson City Park, 935 N. Custer, Clawson
Time :: 10:00 a.m.
Cost :: Free

Join the Easter Bunny looking for eggs! Bring a camera and basket. Arrive on time because the Easter Bunny’s job is done in a blink of an eye. For ages 1-12.

Breakfast with the Easter Bunny

Location :: Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth, 730 S. Main St., Frankenmuth
Time :: 9:00 a.m.
Cost :: $13.25 per person

Join us for Breakfast with the Easter Bunny on Saturday, April 8th starting at 9 a.m. inside Zehnder’s beautiful Main Dining Room. Children have the opportunity to visit with the Easter Bunny, enjoy a delicious breakfast and magic show and receive a special gift.

Toddler Egg Scramble

Location :: Wolcott Mill Metropark,
Time :: 10:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.
Cost :: See website for pricing details

A mini version of our Farm Egg Scramble especially geared to the 4 year old and under age group. The toddlers can visit the Easter Bunny and scramble for eggs. A snack and drink will be included for the children. The Toddler Egg Scramble is a preregistration and prepayed program.

 

Easter Egg Scramble

Location :: Willow Metropark, 23200 S. Huron Rd., New Boston 
Time :: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Cost :: $5 per person, plus entry into the metropark

It’s Easter and you know what that means! Egg hunts, crafts, and games. What are you waiting for? Sign up in advance and get ready for some fun! Advanced Ticket Purchase Only, (734) 697-9181

Easter Egg Scramble

Location :: Oakwoods Metropark, 32911 Willow Rd., New Boston
Time :: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Cost :: $5 per person, plus entry into the metropark

It’s Easter and you know what that means! Egg hunts, crafts, and games. What are you waiting for? Sign up in advance and get ready for some fun! Advanced Ticket Purchase Only, (734) 697-9181

Pizza and Eggs

Location :: Costick Center, 28600 W. Eleven Mile Rd., Farmington Hills 
Time :: 11:30 a.m.
Cost :: $7 per resident and $12 per non-resident

This is not your ordinary egg hunt! We will start with pizza lunch. Followed by an activity and then head out to the egg patch to search for eggs. A bag will be provided for the search and all children will receive a goody bag. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.

Sensory-friendly Easter Bunny

Location :: Great Lakes Crossing, 4000 Baldwin Rd., Auburn Hills
Time :: 8:00 – 9:45 a.m.
Cost :: See website for details

Register today for Sensory-Friendly Easter Bunny at Great Lakes Crossing Outlets! Sensory-Friendly Easter Bunny has dimmer lights and softer music, creating a welcoming environment for children with special needs. Plus, reserve online for your time slot and avoid long lines.

Located at Bunnyville in District 7. Visits with the Easter Bunny are free and photo packages are available for purchase. Please enter the mall through Entry 6. By reservation only.

Charity Easter Egg Hunt

Location :: Ray Wiegand’s Nursery & Garden Center
Time :: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00  p.m.
Cost :: $5 per child

Please join us for our Annual “Easter Egg Hunt”. Your children will embark on an Easter Egg Hunt, where they will search for Easter Eggs & turn them in for goodies.

Ticket sales will benefit TURNING POINT.
A local charity providing services to end domestic and sexual violence.

Weekend Activities will Include: (Prices vary from FREE to $10)
Visit with the Easter Bunny – FREE
Photos with the Easter Bunny – $10
Farmer for the Day – FREE
Bunny & Duckling Petting Farm – $2
Airbrushed Face Painting – $3
55’ Inflatable Caterpillar Maze – $1
Bounce House – $1
Sand Art – $3
Bug Bus – $3
Decoration Station – $5

Detroit Shrine Circus

Location :: Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi
Time :: 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Cost :: $15- 20 per person

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages, this is your hometown circus, your glimpse of the majesty of the wild, your thrills of the high wire, your taste of the popcorn and hot dogs, your touch of the Shrine clown. Yes, this is your circus, the Shrine Circus, our community circus that like Spring brings wonder, energy, and happiness for young and old. This is the day when you get close no matter where you sit. You see. You feel. You laugh. You catch your breath. It’s about as classic Americana as it gets. And it started here, in Detroit.

*Girls Night Out or Date Night Opportunity* Painting & Pints

Location :: Blake Farms, 17985 Armada Center Rd., Armada
Time :: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. OR 8:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Cost :: $40 for a general ticket, which includes your pallet and one drink, $50 “Wine-o” package gets your pallet and three drinks

This event promises to sell out quickly!  Be sure to select only one time slot as no refunds or exchanges are available.  We will be painting hand crafted 12×16 stained pallet boards! Tickets go on sale March 20th and the last Paint event sold out in 4 hours so we recommend not waiting.

*Date Night Opportunity* Bacon & Brews Bash

Location :: Royal Oak Farmers Market, 316 E. 11 Mile Rd., Royal Oak
Time :: 7:30 – 11:00 p.m.
Cost :: $45 general admission, $60 VIP admission

A special celebration of all things covered, wrapped and seasoned with BACON!

This Bacon Bonanza will have you filled with sweet and savory creations including main dishes, compliments, cocktails, and desserts. Over 20 local restaurants, eateries, and sweets boutiques will help you get your bacon fix on!

Join us at Bacon Bash at the Royal Oak Farmer’s Market on Saturday, April 8. Guests will enjoy unlimited samples of bacon-inspired delights made with Dearborn Brand Bacon.

April 9, 2017

Kids Opening Day with the Detroit Tigers!

Location :: Comerica Park, 2100 Woodward Ave., Detroit
Time :: 1:10 p.m.
Cost :: See website for pricing information

Enjoy a Detroit Tigers game with your kids!  Brought to you by Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Michigan – the Tigers will face off against the Boston Red Sox. 

My Turn: A Sensory-friendly Visit at the AAHOM

Location :: The Ann Arbor Hands-on Museum, 220 E. Ann St., Ann Arbor
Time :: 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Cost :: Free but registration might be required

Families affected by autism and other sensory sensitivities are invited to visit AAHOM on April 9, from 9:30-11:30am before the Museum opens to the public.
We’ve turned the lights and the noise down and are providing splash protection, sunglasses, and ear protection to help children with ASD enjoy the amazing exhibits and learning experiences the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum has to offer.

During this event, families will have a chance to explore the Museum in their own way. Visitors will also have a chance to participate in activities while practicing their observation skills and learning about chromatography, density, and buoyancy!

Local autism support providers will be participating in a small resource fair to share information about services they offer.

This event is recommended for ages 5-12, however all are welcome to participate.

EGG-stravagansza

Location :: Stage Nature Center, 6685 Coolidge Hwy., Troy
Time :: 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. OR 3:00-4:30 p.m.
Cost :: $13 per child, $10 per member

Celebrate Spring and the new life that is upon us! Learn about the many animals that hatch from eggs. Discover how eggs protect them as they grow. Take a short spring hike. Participate in egg games, including an egg hunt with special prizes, and make spring crafts.

Dress for the weather. Adult partners are free and must stay with children throughout the event. Ages 4-10. 

EGG-citing Event!

Location :: Burgess Shadbush Nature Center, 4101 River Bends Drive., Shelby Twp.
Time :: 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Cost :: $4 per participating child

Join in the fun and have an egg-citing time. Children will delight in all the activies. Decorate eggs- bring 6 hard boilded eggs, go on an Easter egg hunt and so much more –

Spring Scavenger Hunt and Visit with the Easter Bunny

Location :: Festival Park, Rochester Hills
Time :: 12:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Cost :: $5 per person

And to get the whole season started, we are hosting a Spring Celebration for the entire community! It is our annual event to raise money for the Rainbow Connection. For only $5 per child (100% of the proceeds are donated) and they can partake in all of the activities.

Every year the Village celebrates spring with the bunny coming to visit for a few days. It is an opportunity for families to visit the Easter Bunny in our brightly decorated gazebo and take their own photos with the bunny for FREE.

Meet us in Festival Park under the blue canopy to purchase your stamp to all the fun. Enjoy being outdoors and doing good for children and families that are making wishes with the Rainbow Connection.

FestiFOOLS!

Location :: Main Street, Ann Arbor
Time :: 4:00  – 5:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free

FestiFools is one of Ann Arbor’s cultural treasures. It is a HUGE-mongous public art spectacular, created by members of the community and U of M students. Magnificent, colorful, bizarre, human-powered papier-mâché puppets join thousands of Foolish friends frolicking about downtown for one fun-filled hour!

Detroit Shrine Circus

Location :: Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave., Novi
Time :: 10:00 a.m. 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Cost :: $15- 20 per person

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages, this is your hometown circus, your glimpse of the majesty of the wild, your thrills of the high wire, your taste of the popcorn and hot dogs, your touch of the Shrine clown. Yes, this is your circus, the Shrine Circus, our community circus that like Spring brings wonder, energy, and happiness for young and old. This is the day when you get close no matter where you sit. You see. You feel. You laugh. You catch your breath. It’s about as classic Americana as it gets. And it started here, in Detroit.

April 12, 2017

Royal Oak Farmers Market Food Truck Rally

Location :: Royal Oak Farmers Market, 318 E. 11 Mile Rd., Royal Oak
Time :: 5:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free Entry

A collection of Michigan’s finest food trucks including Delectabowl, Mac Shack, El Guapo, Mean Weenie, Rollin Stone Pizza, Streetside Sushi, Mito’s, Woodpile, Treat Dreams, The Salt & Sugar Co. and more! FREE ENTRY, FREE PARKING! Live music, face painting, kids moon-bounce and more!

April 13, 2017

Marshmallow Drop and Moon Glow

Location :: Genoa Township Athletic Fields, 2911 Dorr Rd., Howell
Time :: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Cost :: $10 per child

It’s time once again for the most unique night-time spring celebration in Livingston County for children ages 0-8.  This one-of-a kind outdoor event begins with a flyer-over by a helicopter with a massive drop of fun, fluffy marshmallows. The kids will be released to run onto the field to collect marshmallows!  Find a “special” one and turn it in for a prize! Once the sun goes down the kids will turn on their flashlights in search of treat filled eggs!  

The Easter Bunny will be there for free family photos!

The Howell Nature Center will be onsite with the Nature Bus from 6pm-8pm, at no additional cost. This special Birds of Prey program is an fun, educational opportunity to get kids excited about wildlife. The nature center staff are great with kids and can’t wait to share their knowledge on nature and wildlife!  

Pack a picnic lunch or enjoy food from our participating food trucks.  This is an event the whole family can enjoy. Registration is limited to the first 1,000 participants; however there will be no on site registration. All registrations must be accepted by Thursday April 13 at Noon. Only kids need to be registered. 

April 14, 2017

The Great Marshmallow Drop 

Location :: Elizabeth Park, Trenton
Time :: 9:00 a.m.
Cost :: Free

A blizzard of 20,000 marshmallows will hit Trenton on Friday, April 14, 2017 at 9 a.m. in Elizabeth Park for the annual Marshmallow Drop!

Once the marshmallows have safely landed, eager children can redeem a marshmallow for a special prize!

Put on your boots and come to Elizabeth Park to laugh and enjoy the company of your neighbors! Be sure to watch for the helicopter! Great photo opportunity! Don’t be late; the helicopter flies at 9 a.m. sharp!

Bunnyville

Location :: The Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Rd., Royal Oak
Time :: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free with admission to zoo

An “eggstravaganza” of family fun is planned for the Detroit Zoo’s annual Bunnyville celebration, featuring games, crafts, live entertainment, zookeeper talks and much more!

Bunnyville features a golden egg hunt with more than 100 eggs hidden throughout the Zoo each day – spot an egg and redeem it for a prize (one egg and prize per family). Festivities also include the Jelly Bean Jamboree, Funny Bunny Games, whisker painting and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny. Enjoy live entertainment, including music by Miss Paula and the Candy Bandits, The Amazing Clark magic show, and the Off Broadway Productions musical “Bunnyville Follies”.

Bunnyville visitors are encouraged to bring a canned or other non-perishable food item to be donated to Gleaners Community Food Bank. Each guest with a food donation will receive a reduced admission price of $9, parking not included. Admission for Detroit Zoological Society Members is free, but Members are encouraged to bring food donations.

Great Marshmallow Drop!

Location :: Catalpa Oaks, 27725 Greenfield Rd., Southfield
Time :: 10:00 a.m.
Cost :: Free

15,000 marshmallows will be helicopter dropped. Come enjoy this non-competitive experience, you only need to exchange ONE marshmallow to receive a prize! One drop will be made for each of three age groups.

Easter Jump and Egg Hunt

Location :: Pump It Up of Shelby Township, 15117 Commercial Drive, Shelby Township
Time :: See website for specific times – as there are several
Cost :: $12 per child

HOP ON OVER to Pump It Up of Shelby for our Annual Easter Egg Hunt and visit with the Easter Bunny! Good Friday, April 14th:

Hunt 1 – 10am – 12pm
Hunt 2 – 1pm – 3pm
Hunt 3 – 4pm – 6pm
Hunt 4 – 7pm – 9pm

Call us at (586)416-4386 to reserve your spot today!!

April 15th - 21st

April 15, 2017

Detroit Moms Blog Easter Eggstravaganza

Location :: Total Sports Farmington,  22777 Farmington Rd., Farmington
Time :: 9:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Cost :: $8 per family

Breakfast with The Bunny

Location :: Howell Nature Center, 1005 Triangle Lake Rd., Howell
Time :: 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. 
Cost :: Adults $9, Children 3-16 $7, Children 2 and Under Free

Join us for a delicious pancake breakfast with sausage and all the trimmings. Children will get to visit with the Easter Bunny, receive a special gift and enjoy an old-fashioned easter egg hunt. Be sure to bring your camera!

Northville Eggstravaganza

Location :: Maybury Farm, 50165 8 Mile Rd., Northville
Time :: 10:00 a.m .- 12:00 p.m.
Cost :: $5 per car – CASH ONLY

Join us for our annual egg hunt for children ages 2-10. This year the hunt will be held at the Maybury Farm, in an effort to expand and improve the event and offer more activities for families to enjoy in addition to the hunt. The gates will open at 10:00 AM. Age divided egg hunts will start at 11:00 AM. Children will collect a specified number of eggs and will redeem for a prize bag filled with candy and other promotional items from sponsors. Please note that the egg hunt will be limited to the first 700 children.

Features food vendors/trucks, the Maybury Farm animals, egg hunts, the Easter bunny, Smokey the Bear, face painting, seed planting, and more!

Bunnyville

Location :: The Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Rd., Royal Oak
Time :: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free with admission to zoo

An “eggstravaganza” of family fun is planned for the Detroit Zoo’s annual Bunnyville celebration, featuring games, crafts, live entertainment, zookeeper talks and much more!

Bunnyville features a golden egg hunt with more than 100 eggs hidden throughout the Zoo each day – spot an egg and redeem it for a prize (one egg and prize per family). Festivities also include the Jelly Bean Jamboree, Funny Bunny Games, whisker painting and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny. Enjoy live entertainment, including music by Miss Paula and the Candy Bandits, The Amazing Clark magic show, and the Off Broadway Productions musical “Bunnyville Follies”.

Bunnyville visitors are encouraged to bring a canned or other non-perishable food item to be donated to Gleaners Community Food Bank. Each guest with a food donation will receive a reduced admission price of $9, parking not included. Admission for Detroit Zoological Society Members is free, but Members are encouraged to bring food donations.

Rochester Play’s 7th Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Location :: Rochester Play, 380 E. 2nd, Rochester
Time :: 8:45 – 10:00 a.m. 
Cost :: $5 per child plus admission, Only $5 per child for members

Join us for a morning of egg hunting fun followed by a visit with the Easter Bunny! Our indoor Easter Egg hunt takes place inside and around our awesome play structures, and is broken into two locations for our two age groups so all children will have a chance to find eggs (ages 1-3 will hunt in our Toddler Structure and ages 4+ will hunt in the Big Structure). All eggs are filled with surprises, including Rochester Play! bonus “Dollars”, and we’ll hide some “Golden Eggs” with special prizes! Stick around for treats and punch for all kids attending and visit with the Easter Bunny after the Egg Hunt.

Doors open at 8:45 am, hunts start promptly at 9:00 am (ages 1-3) and 9:15 am (ages 4+). This is a private event – RP! will open to the public at 10:00 a.m.

Be sure to bring a basket to collect your eggs and bring an optional non-perishable food item for donation to Rochester Neighborhood House to receive a Rochester Play! entry bonus dollar.

Bunny Brunch

Location :: Waterford Recreation Center, 5640 Williams Lake Rd., Waterford
Time :: 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Cost :: $12 per person, $14 per non-resident

Have an EGGcelent time with the Bunny as you enjoy breakfast, games, a craft, family photo opportunity, and an egg hunt. Every family receives one 4 x 6 photo. Space is limited. Registrations must be received by April 9th. Children under 2 yrs. free. Saturday before Easter.

Easter Egg Hunt

Location :: Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois, Troy
Time :: 6:00 p.m.
Cost :: See website for details

Grab your basket and hop over to this egg hunt! After your kids hunt for plastic eggs in the gym, there will be a moon bounce and activities for them. Bring your bathing suit to swim in the indoor pool and find the golden egg for extra prizes. Don’t forget your phone to take pictures with the Easter Bunny!

Please check the website for information.  This event is pre-registration only!

April 18, 2017

Movers & Shakers with Sensory Kids

Location :: Walled Lake City Library, 1499 E. West Maple Rd., Walled Lake
Time :: 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Cost :: Free

Ages 1-3 with an adult caregiver. Join us for a special program with Sensory Kids Pediatric Therapy. We will focus on movement as well as fine motor skills and exploring new textures!

*Dad’s Night Out/Father+Son Outing Opportunity* Champions’ Day

Location :: Detroit Historical Museum, 5401 Woodward Ave., Detroit
Time :: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free

Join us in celebrating Champions’ Day, a very awesome and very official Detroit holiday established in 1936.

April 18th was declared Champions’ Day by the Governor of Michigan when the Tigers, Lions, and Red Wings all won their first championships in the same year. The day was meant to be a yearly event to celebrate Detroit. While we don’t have Joe Louis and the 1936 Detroit Tigers baseball team celebrating with us like the first Champions’ Day, for 4 years in a row we have been bringing it back bigger and better every year.

Charles Avison, the author of “Detroit: City of Champions” and several other historical Detroit books will give a short presentation on how impactful this year in sports was to shaping Detroit’s future, and he will happily dive into any team or era in Detroit sports that we ask. All of this will be happening right in front of the City of Champions’ plaque, where all 48 governors of the United States in 1936 signed and congratulated Detroit on being the City of Champions. The museum will also be exhibiting historical sports memorabilia that is not usually on display. We will also have access to enjoy the entire museum.

April 20, 2017

Knee High Naturalists – April Showers

Location :: Stage Nature Center, 6685 Coolidge Hwy., Troy
Time :: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Cost :: $12 per child, adult partner is free

Children, ages 2-4, with a parent/grandparent partner will enjoy this April program as they discover how changing weather affects spring happings. On the hike, they will look for evidence of new life in spring.

Each Knee-high Naturalist session includes a nature story, hike, activities, craft and a snack. Coming up in May, children will search for new spring flowers.

Detroit Gearapalooza! The Ultimate Baby Gear and Registry Event!

Location :: 380 S. Bates St., Birmingham
Time ::6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Cost :: Price range: $25 – $225 per person

THE ULTIMATE BABY GEAR AND REGISTRY EVENT WITH BUMP CLUB AND BEYOND AND THEBABYGUYNYC IS COMING TO DETROIT!

Join us for a day filled with:
The chance to meet with a dozen baby gear vendors and check out the latest products.
A 90-minute info session + Q+A with Jamie Grayson, The BabyGuyNYC.
A jam-packed gift bag filled with essentials for mom + baby for everyone!
The chance to win THOUSANDS of dollars in prizes!
Exclusive discounts from Modern Natural Baby TONIGHT ONLY!

PLEASE NOTE: THIS EVENT IS DESIGNED FOR EXPECTANT AND NEW PARENTS. BABIES OVER A YEAR WILL NOT BE PERMITTED. DUE TO SPACE CONSTRAINTS, ANY BABIES MUST BE IN A CARRIER AS THERE IS NOT ROOM FOR STROLLERS AT THIS EVENT.

April 21, 2017

Little Engineers

Location :: Walled Lake City Library, 1499 E West Maple Rd., Walled Lake
Time :: 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.
Cost :: Free 

We’ll get out all of our favorite building materials (blocks, playdough, Duplo bricks, stacking cups and more!), you supply the imagination. Drop in for a bit or stay the whole hour; this is an open-play session.

Mary Poppins at the Redford Theater

Location :: The Redford Theater, 17360 Lahser Rd., Detroit
Time :: 8:00 p.m.
Cost :: $5 per person

Julie Andrews plays the magical nanny who teaches valuable lessons to her charges, the Banks children, in a classic Disney musical that brilliantly mixes live action and animation.

*Moms Night Out Opportunity* Mom Prom: Fire and Ice

Location :: San Marino Club, 1685 E. Big Beaver Rd., Troy
Time :: 6:30 p.m. – 1:00 a.m.
Cost :: $50 per person

TIcket includes buffet dinner, open bar, dancing, photobooth, and the crowning of the Prom Queen! We will also have 50/50 and prize raffles! Tickets can be purchased here: http://anchorbaymomsclub.org/momprom/order (PayPal fee is $1.43 per ticket) OR cash only purchases can be made by visiting Bibbidi Bobbidi You Boutique located at:
35346 23 Mile Rd. New Baltimore, MI 48047.

 ALL proceeds from Mom Prom will benefit Turning Point, a local charity that provides emergency shelter and services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. So get your ticket today, put on an old dress, a new dress, or whatever you are comfortable in and come support a wonderful cause!

Knee High Naturalists – April Showers

Location :: Stage Nature Center, 6685 Coolidge Hwy., Troy
Time :: 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
Cost :: $12 per child, adult partner is free

Children, ages 2-4, with a parent/grandparent partner will enjoy this April program as they discover how changing weather affects spring happings. On the hike, they will look for evidence of new life in spring.

Each Knee-high Naturalist session includes a nature story, hike, activities, craft and a snack. Coming up in May, children will search for new spring flowers.

April 22nd - 30th

April 22, 2017

GreenFest

Location :: The Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Rd., Royal Oak
Time :: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free with Admission

GreenFest will feature earth-friendly crafts, chemistry demos, zookeeper talks and more.  Join the Zoo’s Green Team at the Green Games Gallery and enjoy earth-friendly activities, games and a community art project highlighting plastics in the environment.  The event will also include exhibits by local conservation groups and artists providing tips and goods for keeping our planet a healthy place to live.

GreenFest is an initiative of the Detroit Zoological Society’s Greenprint, a comprehensive strategic plan to refine and improve facilities and daily practices, develop new policies and programs and improve green literacy in the community.

Tummy to Toddler Expo

Location :: Macomb Community College South Campus, 14500 E. Twelve Mile Rd., Warren
Time :: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Cost :: $7 per person

Come and check out a great family event for parents and grandparents with children 0-5 years old!
Connect with other parents and professionals in the parenting genre.
Learn: Healthy Cooking, Baby and Child Care, Breast Feeding, Childbirth options, baby wearing.
Experience: Product demos, see, feel and touch the latest and greatest products for you and your family.
Enjoy a family experience: games, contests, prizes, photobooths, bounce houses, story time, princesses and super heros, face painting and more

Mary Poppins at the Redford Theater

Location :: The Redford Theater, 17360 Lahser Rd., Detroit
Time ::  2:00 p.m. AND 8:00 p.m.
Cost :: $5 per person

Julie Andrews plays the magical nanny who teaches valuable lessons to her charges, the Banks children, in a classic Disney musical that brilliantly mixes live action and animation.

Spring Nature Walk 

Location :: Burgess Shadbush Nature Center, 4101 River Bends Drive, Shelby Township
Time :: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Cost :: $2 per person ages 4 and up

Wild spring flowers are just one of the thing to look for at this time. Early spring insects may be out and butterflies that hibernated all winter may be active as well as few winter spring mushrooms.

April 23, 2017

Children’s HUGE Consignment Event

Location :: Rhea Lana’s of Metro Detroit, 22179 Pontiac Trail, South Lyon
Time :: 12:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Cost :: See website for details

Similar to a Mom2Mom sale!  This sale will be going on from today until the 28th.  See website for individual date sale times. 

Touch-a-Truck

Location :: Birmingham Royal Oak Medical Group, 5130 Coolidge Hwy, Royal Oak
Time :: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Cost :: $5 per family (group of 4) and $2 each additional person

Family Friendly Activities for All Ages!!

Explore vehicles including public service, emergency, utility,
construction, and transportation! Other activities include food,
crafts and entertainment.

*Moms Day Out Opportunity* Divine Women’s All Day Retreat

Location :: Little Lotus Wellness Studio, 195 W. 9 Mile Rd., Ferndale
Time :: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Cost :: $85 per person

Join us for our first Divine Women’s all day retreat at LLWS! Can never find the time to get away for a full retreat? Carve out one day to connect with your Divine Tribe right here at home. Snuggle into the studio for the day to enjoy 2 ceremonies, 4 classes & the ultimate chill out lunch hour, all away from the outside world. Leave refreshed, inspired and connected to new amazing women in your community! This magical day is only $85, very limited space available.

Retreat Schedule:
10:00 am Cleansing & welcoming ceremony
11:00 am Tribal Fusion Movement
12:15 pm Find your Divine essence & manifestation workshop
1:00-2:30 pm The ultimate chill out lunch break (bring with or go out) enjoy tea and relaxing activites
2:30 pm Meditation, mudras and mantras workshop
3:30-5 pm Candlelight yin yoga & essential oils
5:15 pm Closing ceremony

Storytime Adventure – The Invisible String

Location :: The Painted Pot, 421 Walnut Blvd., Rochester
Time :: 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Cost :: $5 per person

Join us for a Storytime Adventure! After our story, we will create a unique ceramic project. This class is great for all ages! Parents stay with their young artist.
The Invisible Sting is a simple story that reminds children and adults that they are not alone. As the mother in this story explains, “People who love each other are always connected by a very special string made of love. Even though you can’t see it with your eyes, you can feel it deep in your heart and know that you are always connected to the ones you love.” After we read a sweet tale, we will create a fun box with fingerprints.

April 24, 2017

Children’s HUGE Consignment Event

Location :: Rhea Lana’s of Metro Detroit, 22179 Pontiac Trail, South Lyon
Time :: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Cost :: See website for details

Similar to a Mom2Mom sale!  This sale will be going on from today until the 28th.  See website for individual date sale times. 

April 25, 2017

Children’s HUGE Consignment Event

Location :: Rhea Lana’s of Metro Detroit, 22179 Pontiac Trail, South Lyon
Time :: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Cost :: See website for details

Similar to a Mom2Mom sale!  This sale will be going on from today until the 28th.  See website for individual date sale times. 

Movers & Shakers with Sensory Kids

Location :: Walled Lake City Library, 1499 E. West Maple Rd., Walled Lake
Time :: 10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Cost :: Free

Ages 1-3 with an adult caregiver. Join us for a special program with Sensory Kids Pediatric Therapy. We will focus on movement as well as fine motor skills and exploring new textures!

April 26, 2017

Children’s HUGE Consignment Event

Location :: Rhea Lana’s of Metro Detroit, 22179 Pontiac Trail, South Lyon
Time :: 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Cost :: See website for details

Similar to a Mom2Mom sale!  This sale will be going on from today until the 28th.  See website for individual date sale times. 

April 29, 2017

Bats of the World

Location :: Stage Nature Center, 6685 Coolidge Hwy., Troy
Time :: 3:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Cost :: $10 per person, $8 per person

Step into the exciting and mysterious world of bats with the Organization for Bat Conservation. Explore the importance of bats, habitat, conservation and the amazing adaptations bats have to navigate their nocturnal lifestysle. Meet live bats from North and South America and Africa – some with nearly a three-foot wingspan!

This is a family program; children must be accompanied by a registered adult. Each person participating must enroll and pay the fee.

Ages: 4-Adult

Spring Bird Hike

Location :: Stage Nature Center, 6685 Coolidge Hwy., Troy
Time :: 8:00 – 10:00 a.m.
Cost :: $6 per person, $4 for members

Spring migration is in its peak and brings with it a spectacular opportunity to see several amazing birds. Some of the birds will be summer residents; others will be just passing through on their trip north. Join us as we hike the trails and look for our migrating feathered friends. Bring binoculars or borrow ours. All experience levels welcome.

Children must be accompanied by an adult. Each participant must register to attend. Ages 8 to adult.

Sensory-friendly Saturday

Location :: The Henry Ford, 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn
Time :: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Cost :: See website for details

Sensory Friendly Saturday is an event designed for guests on the autism spectrum and with other sensory processing disorders. For this event, a variety of accommodations, activities and more have been put into place to create an inclusive, welcoming and safe space for our guests. Prior to this event, staff members of The Henry Ford participated in Michigan Autism Safety Training (MAST) provided by the Autism Alliance of Michigan to better understand the characteristics of autism and how to recognize and communicate with someone with autism.

 Your experience includes
  • An early opening of the Day Out With Thomas™ Depot Town activity area for Sensory Friendly Saturday guests. The gates of Greenfield Village open at 8:00 am on this day for Sensory Friendly Saturday guests, with Depot Town activities available beginning at 8:30 am. The remainder of Greenfield Village will be closed until 9:30 am.
  • 9:30 am ride on Thomas the Tank Engine exclusively for Sensory Friendly Saturday guests. Day Out With Thomas™ tickets, in addition to Greenfield Village admission, are required to ride Thomas. Tickets for this special opportunity are only available by calling the Call Center at 313-982-6001. Tickets are on sale beginning March 8 for members and March 22 for non-members.
  • A quiet area with activities for Day Out With Thomas™ available all day in Town Hall.
  • An event map showing locations of loud sounds and locations of the day’s activities in Greenfield Village.
  • Noise-cancelling headphones and earplugs available for guests to use.
  • A social narrative created by the Autism Alliance of Michigan for Greenfield Village and Day Out With Thomas™ showing what families might see, hear, smell, taste, and touch

American Indian Powwow & Indian Festival

Location :: Algonac High School, 5200 Taft Rd., Algonac
Time :: 10:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free 

Powwow dancing, American Indian crafts, and craft sale

Community Connection Day for families with At-Risk or Special Population Children

Location :: Summit on the Park, 46000 Summit Pkwy, Canton
Time :: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Cost :: Free

You and your family are invited to this FREE event where you can meet Canton and Plymouth First Responders and let them meet you! A great opportunity to introduce yourself to, and connect with, our Community’s Thin Blue Line, Paramedics, Firefighters and more! We are thrilled to launch this exciting initiative to help dispel fears that may be associated with lights, sirens, or authority figures in the disability and at-risk communities, to foster an important dialogue, and to encourage a greater understanding of one another.

-Enjoy an interactive public safety vehicle display!

-Visit our expo area of resource-related vendors and organizations like:
* Building Bridges Therapy Center
* Fatwheels
* Miracle League of Plymouth
*And More!

Light lunch options will be available for purchase.

Introducing Betty Dannewitz: A Downriver Mom

By
bettydannewitz
-

Introducing Betty!

:: Down with Detroit ::

Detroit is my newest love in life. I have lived in Downriver (Lincoln Park) most of my life – save for my elementary school years spent in Indianapolis. But up until recently, Detroit was always kinda scary. A few years ago, a friend invited me out to dinner at a restaurant in Detroit. I looked at her like she had three heads, but agreed to go. And little by little I kept visiting until I realized that Detroit is actually exciting! We should be proud to be part of a city that is quite literally TBD and coming back!

Some of my favorite places in Detroit are Roasting Plant for coffee, Hopcat in Midtown for burgers and crack fries, Astoria for decadent dessert, and RUNDetroit for all things running.

My favorite places also include my job! I work for Ally Insurance in Downtown Detroit as a Learning and Development Specialist (Corporate Trainer). I get to teach people awesome life skills like Crucial Conversations and Emotional Intelligence. Love my job and I LOVE working downtown! Love to walk in the city and down by the river, especially when it’s warmer, feel the vibe and see the sites and all the peeps!

:: My Life ::

Let me tell you a little bit about me. I am an only child raised by a single hard working mom. I work hard and workout even harder. I am a marathoner and hope soon to participate in my first power-lifting event. Fitness is part of my identity – you will learn more about how that came to be soon enough.

My personal mission in life is to help and serve others. I practice this with my life activities. I am the Guest Services Leader at Southpoint Church in Allen Park. I lead teams that help people feel warm and welcome when they come to worship. I am also a co-leader for Griefshare, a support group for those who have lost a loved one. I am also a founding member of the Downriver Moms Run this Town group.  I started a blog about a year and a half ago. You can check it out at www.ifyouaskbetty.com. It’s random – I will tell ya that. Start with the Marathon story.

I am a voracious reader and love to listen to books on Audible too. I have been known to buy four books in one week – whoops! Not a big fan of fiction, though I could be persuaded. I just finished Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action by Simon Sinek and started Social: Why Our Brains are Wired to Connect by Matthew D. Lieberman. #totalgeek #bookissues

:: Babies & Beyond ::

I have been married to my husband David for almost 17 years. We have two gorgeous girls – Lucy is 14 ½ (pray for me) and Sally is 9. And yes I named them after the Peanuts characters. I am not a huge Peanuts fan – I just like themes. My kids are great people, which makes me feel like I have done something right. What more can you ask for? I also have two beagles (Daisy and Bowser).

I am super excited to be part of this community! Looking forward to making lasting relationships and getting a chance to share my insights and what I have learned on my journey so far!

PEACE!

A Sugar-Free Easter {Non Candy Easter Basket Ideas}

By
Michelle MD
-

 Holidays come and go and when they go they can leave our kids in a sugar frenzy. Christmas cookies, Halloween candy, Valentine chocolates . . . but we can save our sanity at Easter by using this fabulous list of non-candy basket stuffer and egg filler ideas. I’ve even arranged things into age categories for your convenience. You’re welcome! 

There are plenty of ways to stuff your child’s basket full of fun! It’s kinda like stuffing stockings, I love the challenge each year of coming up with new and exciting ideas. Sometimes I go with a theme, everything in the basket has something in common, maybe all one color, maybe based on favorite book/game/movie. For me it’s just as much fun to fill it as it is for him to find it on Easter morning!

*Safety first! A good rule of thumb for little ones who are still mouthing things – If the item can fit into an empty toilet paper tube it’s likely going to be a choking hazard for your child. Please keep this in mind when choosing small toys for your Easter egg hunt! 

BABIES & TODDLERS

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Basket Stuffers:                                 

  • Board Books                            
  • Cute Socks                                
  • Bath Toys                                 
  • Hat/Bonnet                             
  • Easter Bib                                
  • Chew Beads
  • Grippy Bumpy Ball                            
  • Teething Toys                         
  • Sippy Cup                                
  • Stuffed Animal
  • Outfit
  • Bathing Suit
  • Teething Biscuits

Egg Fillers: (large eggs are best)

  • Teething Necklace
  • Bath Squirters
  • Stickers (age appropriate)
  • Yogurt Drops
  • Cheerios
  • Rolled Up Socks
  • Cute Headbands
  • Hair Clips
  • Cars

PRE-SCHOOL - AGES 3-4

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Basket Stuffers:

  • Books/Bookmarks
  • Bubbles
  • Stickers
  • Sidewalk Chalk
  • Washable Paint
  • Crayons/Coloring Books
  • Bath Toys
  • Stuffed Animals
  • Toothbrush
  • Sand Toys
  • Water Bottle
  • Sunglasses
  • Kite
  • Bouncy Ball/Sport Ball
  • Puzzle
  • Butterfly Net
  • Hat/Cap/Sun Bonnet
  • Doll/Action Figure
  • Seed Packet & Plant Pot

 

Egg Fillers:

  • Stickers/Temporary Tattoos
  • Spinners
  • Silly Putty
  • Mini Play-Doh
  • Slime!
  • Sticky Stretchy Guys
  • Bath Squirters
  • Plastic Animals
  • Mini Rubber Duckies
  • Super Balls
  • Stampers
  • Plastic Rings
  • Mini Slinky Toys
  • Bead Necklaces
  • Hair Clips
  • Race Cars
  • Paratrooper Toys
  • Stretchy Finger Flingers

KINDERGARTEN - SCHOOL AGE

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Basket Stuffers:

  • Books/Bookmarks
  • Small Lego Kits
  • Lego Mini Figures
  • Sports Balls
  • Stickbots
  • Perler Beads
  • Art Supplies
  • Modeling Clay
  • Trading Cards
  • Plushies
  • Yo-Yo
  • Jump Rope
  • Bathing Suit/Towel
  • Sunglasses
  • Game Cartridge
  • Card Games
  • Bubbles
  • Sand Toys
  • Sidewalk Chalk/Paint
  • Dolly & Me Outfit
  • Board Game
  • Puzzle
  • Water Bottle
  • DVD

Egg Fillers:

  • Necklaces
  • Plastic Jewelry/Rings
  • Punch Balloons 
  • Temporary Tattoos
  • Stickers
  • Silly Putty
  • Mini Nail Polish
  • Slime
  • Play-Doh
  • Sticky Stretchy Guys
  • Finger Flingers
  • Squirters
  • Hair Accessories
  • Toy Animals
  • Rubber Duckies
  • Super Balls
  • Money/Coins
  • Erasers
  • Bead Kits

One final tip! When preparing the family Egg Hunt, use a specific color for each child! This cuts down on fighting over who got the most eggs. Also, this way you can make sure each child gets age appropriate items. I swear being a Mom means you’ve always got to think 10 steps ahead!

What’s going in your Easter Baskets and Easter Eggs this year?

2017 Easter Egg Hunts {In + Around Detroit}

By
Jessica Maurer
-

Detroit Easter Egg Hunts

Whether they are carefully camouflaged or left out in plain sight, there is something so egg-citing (see what I did there?) about an Easter Egg Hunt! Here is your guide to the sometimes muddy, sometimes snowy (it is Michigan), hopefully sunny spring fun that is an Egg Hunt in Metro Detroit!  

Starting with our very own Detroit Moms Blog Easter Eggstravaganza! 

2nd Annual DMB Easter Eggstravaganza, Total Sports – Farmington 

Saturday, April 15 10:00a – 1:00p

After such a fun event last year, we can’t wait to do it again! Join us for the second annual DMB Easter Eggstravaganza and Egg Hunt in Farmington! 

 

Oakland County

Sunday, March 26th

Wolverine Lake: Easter Bunny Luncheon & Egg Hunt, Richardson Center – Commerce | 1:00p – 3:00p Egg Hunt at 2:00 pm

Eat lunch and visit with the Easter Bunny! Includes – Pizza, dessert, crafts and egg hunt.  Child – $5.00 in advance, $7.00 at the door; Adult – $2.00 in advance, $3.00 at the door. Limited number of walk-ins will be allowed as space and supplies permit 

Saturday, April 8th

Clawson: Easter Egg Hunt, Clawson City Park | 10:00a

Join the Easter Bunny looking for eggs! Bring a camera and basket. Arrive on time because the Easter Bunny’s job is done in a blink of an eye. Ages 1-12.

Highland: Huron Valley Egg Hunt, Duck Lake Pines Park | 10:00a                                         

For more information, contact the Chamber office at 248-685-7129              

Holly: Spring Egg Hunt, Holly Twp Beach | 11:00a                                                                                                                                                                                    

Plastic eggs filled with candy and prizes will be hidden around the beach. There will be different age categories to make sure the hunt is fair for everyone. Children should bring their own basket or bag to collect their eggs.  Donations will be accepted to help cover programming and supply costs. The beach is located at 501 Thomas St. in Holly. Ages: 12 & Under.

Rochester: Easter Egg Hunt, Rochester Park Kiwanis Shelter | 10:15a 4 & Under; 11:30a 11 & Under

This event will be held at Rochester Park.  Pre-registration is a must.  Dress for the weather because the entire event is held outdoors. Ages: 11 & Under

Farmington Hills: Pizza & Eggs, Costick Center |11:30a – 1:00p                                                                             

A pizza lunch will be followed by a trip to the “egg patch” to search for eggs. A bag will be provided for the search and every child will receive a goody bag. All children must be accompanied by a paid adult. The fee is $7 residents/$12 non-residents. Register by April 3 or until full. 

Southfield: Eggstravaganza, Southfield Pavilion | 2:00p – 4:30p

Activities include: petting farm, visits with the bunny, games, crafts, and more! Food and some craft activities will be available for an additional cost. Ages: 14 & Under

Sunday, April 9th

Rochester: Easter Egg Hunt, Rochester Play | 12:00 noon

Ages 1-10

Novi: Eggstravaganza, Fuerst Park | 2:00p – 4:00p                                                                                         

Let’s go on an egg hunt!  Crafts, bunny visits, multiple age egg hunts. Ages 2 and up. $5 per child.        

Wixom: Easter Egg Hunt, Gilbert Willis Park | 12:00p

Registration begins at 12:00 p.m. and the Hunt begins at 1:00 p.m. The Easter Bunny will hop into Wixom with lots of candy filled eggs for children to hunt in this traditional Easter Egg Hunt. There are 2 areas for different age groups. To be sure everyone leaves happy, limited 10 eggs per child. Fee includes basket. Easter Bunny will be on site for hellos and pictures; be sure to bring your camera! Rain or shine event. No personal baskets, please. Cost is $3 per child. 

Thursday, April 13th

West Bloomfield: Spring Fling Egg Hunt, Drake Sports Park | 5:45p; 6:30p; 7:15p & 8:00p                                                                                                

Hunt for eggs and turn them in for treats!  Mr. and Mrs. Bunny will be there, so bring your camera and a basket to carry your goodies.  Check-in will begin 30 minutes prior to each heat.  This event typically sells out so early registration is highly recommended. Ages 1-7 yrs. Fees are $5 per child for residents and $7 per child for nonresidents.  If the event is not sold out, on-site registration will be available for $10 per child.

West Bloomfield: Spring Fling Flashlight Egg Hunt, Drake Sports Park | 8:45p                                                                                                          

An “egg-citing” twist on one of our most popular events, designed for our slightly older egg hunters.  Bring your flashlight and be prepared to “really hunt” down those hidden treasures. Bring a basket to carry away all your goodies. Check in between 8:15 pm and 8:45 pm.  Event will begin when it is dark (approximately 8:45.) This event will go rain or shine, so dress for the weather – Don’t forget boots! We will only allow on-site registrations if openings exist. Ages 5-12 yrsOn site registration fee is $10. Pre-registration is $5 for residents and $7 for non-residents. 

Milford: Fun on the Farm Egg Hunt, Kensington Metropark Farm Center | 10:00a                                                                                                                   

It’s Easter at the Farm! Time to have an egg scramble and meet the Easter Bunny. This event is smaller than the park’s large egg hunt and is meant for ages 4 and younger.  It starts at 10 a.m. sharp! (Early arrival is highly recommended!) No registration necessary. For more information contact the Farm Center at 248-684-8632. A Metroparks vehicle entry permit is required to enter any Metropark. $5 (cash only) per child; Babies 12 months and under free.     

Oxford: Teen Flashlight Egg Hunt, Powell Lake Township Park | 8:30p SHARP

An egg hunt with a twist – you’ll need your flashlights to hunt in the dark! Don’t forget to check your batteries and a basket to collect the eggs.  Turn eggs in for prizes and find the special egg to win the grand prize. Ages: 10 – 17. Cost: $10 (Oxford Residents: $8)

Springfield Twp: Teen Flashlight Egg Hunt, Mill Pond Park – Davisburg | 8:00p – 9:30p                                                                                                      

Egg hunt meets awesomeness when teens hunt in the dark with flashlights for Easter eggs chucked full of candy. Participants are required to bring a flashlight and something to put their eggs in.  Door prizes, pizza and a beverage will be provided.  Awards will also be given.  Egg hunt will be held rain or shine, so please dress weather appropriate.  A minimum number of participants are required to hold the hunt.  Pre-registration is strongly encouraged but will be accepted at the door if minimum is met and tickets are still available! Limited number of tickets available. Ages: 10 – 17. Cost: $10/person.                                                                                                                                   

Friday, April 14th

Royal Oak: Bunnyville, Detroit Zoo | Friday & Saturday  9:00a – 3:00p                                                                                                                                                        

Hop on over to Bunnyville at the Detroit Zoo! An “egg-stravaganza” of family fun is planned for the Detroit Zoo’s annual Bunnyville celebration, featuring games, live entertainment, zookeeper talks and much more! Activities will feature a golden egg hunt, the Jelly Bean Jamboree, Funny Bunny Games, whisker painting and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny (available for purchase). Discounted Admission Available: Bunnyville visitors are encouraged to bring a canned or other non-perishable food item to be donated to Gleaners Community Food Bank. Each guest with a food donation will receive a reduced admission price of $9, parking not included. Admission for Detroit Zoological Society Members is free, but Members are encouraged to bring food donations.

Springfield Twp: Easter Egg Hunt, Springfield Oaks Activity Center | Ages 4 & Under: 11:00a – 1:00p; Ages 5 – 12 2:00p – 4:00p                                                           

Hop on out for our eggcellent 19th Annual Easter Egg Hunt!  Our colorful Easter eggs will be filled with candy, toys, or prizes. The Easter Bunny will also be there so parents please bring your camera to capture the memories. Prize eggs may be found during the hunt. Children must bring their own Easter basket. Egg hunt will be held rain or shine, so please dress weather appropriate.  Egg hunts will begin promptly at 11am and 2pm. 

Saturday, April 15th

Auburn Hills: Easter Egg Hunt & Bonnet Contest, Civic Center Park | 12:00p – 2:00p                                                                                           

Children of all ages are invited to hunt for Easter treats, enter the Annual Easter Bonnet Contest and have their pictures taken with the Easter Bunny! Adults, don’t forget to enter the traditional egg toss! There will be a $2 per child fee for attending the event collected from  your car as you enter the park. Note: Hunt areas are spread throughout the park. The age categories are: 3 & under, 4-6, 7-9, 10 & up.

Royal Oak: Bunnyville, Detroit Zoo | Friday & Saturday 9:00a – 3:00p                                                                                                                                                      

Hop on over to Bunnyville at the Detroit Zoo! An “egg-stravaganza” of family fun is planned for the Detroit Zoo’s annual Bunnyville celebration, featuring games, live entertainment, zookeeper talks and much more! Activities will feature a golden egg hunt, the Jelly Bean Jamboree, Funny Bunny Games, whisker painting and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny (available for purchase). Discounted Admission Available: Bunnyville visitors are encouraged to bring a canned or other non-perishable food item to be donated to Gleaners Community Food Bank. Each guest with a food donation will receive a reduced admission price of $9, parking not included. Admission for Detroit Zoological Society Members is free, but Members are encouraged to bring food donations.

Milford: The Great Egg Hunt at Martindale Beach, Kensington Metropark Farm Center | 11:00a                                                                                                                                               

Bring the kids for an Easter egg scramble and enjoy an animal show presented by Farmer John and The Barnyard Express. (Show times 10:30 a.m. & 11:30 a.m.) And of course, kids will get an opportunity to pose for your pictures with the Easter Bunny. 11 a.m. SHARP! Early arrival is highly recommended! All Ages. $5 (cash only) per child; Babies 12 months & under free.       

Oxford: Easter Bunny Bonanza, Seymour Lake Township Park | 1:00p SHARP

Welcome the Easter Bunny with an Easter Egg Hunt and Ping-pong ball drop!  The bunny chopper will fly over and shower the kids with thousands of white ping-pong balls.  Each child will receive a bag of candy and special treat. Cost: $10 (Oxford Residents: $8) Advance tickets required.

Sylvan Lake: Annual Glow Egg Hunt, Community Center | 8:00p

Annual egg hunt on the front lawn at the Community Center.

White Lake: Egg Scramble with Roscoe the Clown, Indian Springs Metropark Environmental Discovery Center | 10:00a & 1:00p

It’s time for Indian Springs’ annual Egg Scramble. Rosco the Clown will entertain families with his fabulous show.  We will provide bags for egg collecting–please do not bring a basket. Fee: $5 per child.  Please preregister. A vehicle entry permit is required to enter any Metropark.

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Macomb County

Saturday, April 8th

Ray: Toddler Egg Scramble, Wolcott Mill Metropark Farm and Nature Centers | 10:00a, 1:00p & 3:00p

A mini version of our Farm egg Scramble especially geared for the 4 year old and under age group. The toddlers can visit the Easter Bunny, make a craft and scramble for eggs. A snack and drink will be included for the children. Visitors may also purchase a horse drawn wagon ride. Preregistration required. Space will be limited to 50 children per session. Please dress for the weather. Call 586-752-5932 to preregister. Preregistration only please. $5 per child. 

Sterling Heights: **Special Needs Egg Hunt**, Rockpointe Church | 10:00a – 12:00p                               

Free egg hunt for kids with special needs, siblings are welcome to join in the fun.  There are the following Egg hunts available for your children: Wheelchair Egg Hunt, Quiet Egg Hunt (for those with sensory concerns), Special Egg Hunt (for those with special needs and all siblings).  Everything is wheelchair accessible. Ages: 12 & Under.                                                                                

Shelby Twp: Easter Egg Scramble, River Bends Park | 1:00p for ages 3 – 5 and 2:00p for ages 6 – 10                                                              

A truly festive afternoon will start with an egg hunt, kids will “scramble” to find all the goodie-filled eggs. Bring your own basket for egg collection! This is an outdoor, rain or shine, event with no registration and no payment required.

Sunday, April 9th

Ray: Farm Egg Scramble, Wolcott Mill Metropark Farm and Nature Centers | 1:00p – 4:00p

Come out and visit with the farm animals and participate in the best egg scramble around! Take you picture with the Easter Bunny, visit with Roscoe the Clown and stop by Bunnyville to meet the rabbits. Kids can make a craft to take home and enter the coloring contest. Visitors may purchase a horse drawn wagon ride. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Please dress for the weather.  $5 per child at the door.

IMG_8337

Wayne County

Saturday, April 1st

Canton: Easter Eggstravaganza, Heritage Park | 10:30a – 12:30p                                                                                                                                                                      

Bring the kids out to enjoy a variety of Easter and spring-themed activities! We will run continuous egg hunts between 10:30am-12:30pm in two age categories to help keep the “hunting” fair for even our littlest participants. Please allow some extra time for parking, as historically this is a well-attended event. The grounds tend to be very wet in early spring so please DRESS ACCORDINGLY. Please check out cantonfun.org prior to the event for a complete schedule of events. Ages: Up to 11 yrs. Fee: $3 per child R/ $4 per child NR, on-site registration.           

Saturday, April 8th

Grosse Ile: Annual Easter Event, Centennial Farm |  9:30a – 11:00a or 12:00p – 1:30p                                                   

Activities Include: Brunch,  Easter Egg Hunt by Age Division,  Visit and Photo with Easter Bunny, Prizes.  Advanced Tickets Only! $8.00 Per Child– Advanced Registration Required,  Adults can purchase a meal ticket for $4.

Grosse Pointe Farms: Easter Egg Hunt, Pier Park | 10:00a

Join us at this free event in Rain, Shine or Snow, and bring your Easter basket or bag to hunt for candy filled eggs.  Don’t forget your camera for pictures with the Easter Bunny!!  Please arrive by 9:45 a.m. as the hunt begins at 10:00 a.m. sharp!

Wednesday, April 12th

Detroit: Easter Eggstravaganza, Crowell Recreation Center | 5:00p

Ages 12 & Under

Saturday, April 15th

Brownstown:  Easter Egg Scramble, Lake Erie Metropark Marshlands Museum & Nature Center | 10:00a; 12:00p & 2:00p

It’s Easter and you know what that means!  Egg hunts, crafts, and games.  Sign up in advance and get ready for some fun! Advanced Ticket Purchase Only. $5.00 per child. A vehicle entry permit is required to enter any Metropark.

Detroit: Easter Fun Fest, Historic Fort Wayne | 10:00a – 2:00p

Free event. Concessions will be available nominal fee.  Activities include : Egg Hunts, Zoo-topia, Egg-mazing Race, Tot Area, Youth-Adult Egg Hunt, Talent Showcase and much more. All Ages. Call (313) 224-1100 for more information.

Livonia: Egg Hunt, Rotary Park | 12:00p                                                                                                      

Register the day of the event from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. at Rotary Park (6 mile and Hubbard): FREE! Ages 10 and under are welcome (with parent participation) to search for eggs from the Easter Bunny!                                                                                                                   

Northville: Easter Egg Hunt, Ward Church | 10:00a – 11:30a

An INDOOR Easter Egg Hunt for PRESCHOOL THROUGH SECOND GRADE children. There will be music, snacks, a story and egg hunting. Please bring a basket or something to hold your found treasures

Northville: Egg-Stravaganza, Maybury State Park Farm | 10:30a – 12:00p                                                                                                                                               

Come to Maybury Farm and enjoy face painting, visits by Smokey Bear and the Easter Bunny. Age divided egg hunts begin at 11 a.m.  $5 per car admission.

 

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Washtenaw County

Saturday, April 15th

Ann Arbor: Spring Eggstravaganza, Lillie Park South – Pittsfield Twp |  11:00a – 1:30p

Egg scrambles, petting zoo, balloon twisters, face painting, photos with the Easter Bunny, crafts, games, music, and more!  Egg Scrambles stating at 11:30 AM, 12 PM, and 12:30 PM

Saline: Egg Scavenger Hunt, Rec Center Woods |  11:30a 

Bring your basket or bag to collect eggs that have been scattered throughout the wooded area behind the Rec Center. The children will be divided into the following age groups: 2-3, 4-5, 6-7 and 8-10. A few lucky eggs will have a prize sticker. All participants will receive a goody bag. This event will take place outside rain, shine or snow. Event starts promptly at 11:30 so don’t be late! Ages: 2 – 10. Price: Member Fee: $6.00; Non Member Fee: $6.00

 

Introducing JeeYoung: A Macomb Mom

By
JeeYoung W.
-

Introducing JeeYoung!

 
:: Down with Detroit ::

I’ve been in Michigan for the majority of my life. My family and I came here from S. Korea back in 1990 and aside from a brief stint in California during my freshman year of college, Michigan has always been my home. I grew up in Troy and currently reside in Macomb with my husband and 2.5 little boys! I love visiting down towns from Detroit to Mackinac Island to Imlay City and everything in between. After doing the college tour around several different campuses in and out of MI, I graduated from Wayne State and spent my formidable college years exploring the city and everything it has to offer. It makes me so happy to see how much it’s developed in recent years!

My husband, David, is also from Troy (though we didn’t meet until after college in a few towns over!) and he’s lived in different parts of Michigan for all of his life. He’s a huge Detroit sports fan and we try to attend games as often as possible. We’re total foodies, so we love to explore new restaurants and festivals whenever we can find the time (or a babysitter)! We lament every winter about how we need to move to a warmer climate, but this is our home. We love the four seasons, our quiet weekends up north, and love taking our boys to different places that we grew up visiting all over Michigan!

 

:: My Life ::

I am a (mostly) work at home mom as a consultant and proposal writer. I enjoy sleeping, cooking, reading, writing, shopping, eating, and drinking hot coffee. All of life’s essential things that take a little bit more effort these days while parenting my little boys! I’m a total wanderlust, Jesus lover, and people person. I may seem like I have a tough exterior, but in truth, I wear my heart on my sleeve. My loyalty knows no bounds, once you’re in my circle and I find joy and happiness in serving others. I feel grateful to have a supportive network of friends and family to keep my (and my kids’) lives together. I seriously don’t know how I would do life without them. Oh yes, and I totally believe Targeting is a verb and way of life!
 
 
On a whim last Spring, I decided to start a lifestyle and parenting blog over at Simply + Every. It’s been a wonderful way to connect with other mamas and my journey brought me to this wonderful network of moms and dads! I firmly believe that we survive this happy chaos of parenting with the help and support of people around us.

:: Babies & Beyond ::

I am a boy mom for life! I have two littles, Austin (4) & Camden (18 months) and a new little baby boy on the way, due to arrive in June! My two oldest boys are complete opposites in personality, but love to wrestle and laugh and love on their mama all the same. I’m 26 weeks pregnant and I am still in shock mode that I will be a mama to three babies! I think it’ll probably stay that way until his arrival this summer.

My mantra in motherhood has always been “everything in moderation” & “go with the flow.” As a self-proclaimed A-type OCD personality, this goes against the very nature of my being, but it has served me well in this roller coaster ride of parenting. I’m only four years in, but I’ve learned that it is a constant flow of reminders and a-ha moments that repeat itself throughout the cycle of our days.

Motherhood is a dichotomy of emotions. It’s raw and it’s pure. It’s been the greatest teacher in my life and I know that I’m learning constantly about myself as a mother and a woman. And through all of the ups and downs, the one reminder I try to tell myself from time to time is to give myself grace. Because despite my shortcomings, their love for me is completely and utterly unconditional.

I’m Not A Psycho, I Just Played One On TV

By
aubreymoon
-

Nearly five years ago my husband and I were featured on an episode of HGTV’s House Hunters. It wasn’t but two minutes into the episode that Twitter trolls came out expressing their disdain for my “quirks” that made me seem like a pyscho home-buyer. While my tastes have changed a bit since House Hunters, I still stick to my guns when it comes to keeping things simple and clean. Here are a few tips I use in {an attempt to} keep a tidy, organized home. 

  1. Bins, boxes & reusable containers  

    Its amazingly easy to watch toy boxes overflow or maybe take over the living room. I’ve found that by reusing ice cream buckets, animal cracker containers and whatever else we can get our hands on, it allows small toys to stay fairly organized. In order to keep my OCD to a minimum, I spend time once a week ensuring that all of the like-toys can be found in the same bins. For example, all of the matchbox cars go in one bucket, dinosaurs in another, and Paw Patrol “guys” in the next. At the end of the night all of the buckets go into a storage bin so that the toys aren’t in plain sight as a distraction when he can’t fall asleep. Amazon has great options for kids storage that can fit any themed bedroom or playroom.  

  2. Place mats in the refrigerator or pantry shelves

    I’m not sure about you but cleaning out the refrigerator is one of my least favorite tasks, period. There’s nothing worse than being greeted by a jar that sticks to the glass or crumbs that appear out of nowhere. A low-cost (see dollar store or Target clearance), yet effective way to keep your refrigerator clean is by lining the shelves with washable place mats; They’re removable, can be wiped down with a washcloth and don’t succumb to stains. The placements in my fridge have saved me on numerous accounts from having to remove everything from the shelves due to a milk spill or overflow from leftovers. Depending on the interior capacity, you’ll likely need 6-10 place mats. These also make great pantry liners and you don’t have the hassle of having to cut or stick anything to the shelves.

  3. Managing Stainless Steel

    In our HH episode the biggest “problem” viewers had with me was the fact that I didn’t want stainless steel appliances. Fingerprints, splatters and spills are an eyesore. The truth is (especially if you have little hands that touch EVERYTHING!), stainless steel is a pain in the butt! Over the last few years, I’ve tried dozens of products and have landed on these two favorites: 

    Formula 409 Natural Stone & Steel Cleaner: This spray not only cuts thru greasy messes and splatters, it smells good too! I use it as the main cleaner for our appliances and countertops throughout the house. 

    Sprayway Stainless Steel Cleaner & Polish: Want your appliances to sparkle? Use this polish! As an oil-based spray, a little bit goes a long way. This is my finishing step that keeps fingerprints from showing for at least a few days at a time. 

  4. Steam cleaner mop

    I learned from my mom at a young age that the real way to make sure your kitchen and bathroom floors stay clean is to scrub on your hands and knees; But after two knee surgeries and pregnancy, I figured that there must to be another way! This Christmas I asked my mother in-law for a steam cleaner for my tile floor and now am obsessed. I have the Shark but there are tons on the market that do a great job. The best part about steam cleaning is that I don’t have to use a bunch of chemicals on the floor that the kids or dog are exposed to regularly. Plus I don’t have to wear holes in the knees of my pants when scrubbing the floor and my son always wants to help!

As spring cleaning season quickly approaches, don’t let it overwhelm you. Take your time and go room-by-room when sorting through closets, clothes or attempting to organize your basement clutter. Is there a product you love that other moms could benefit from? What are your favorite tips or tricks for spring cleaning?

Dear Breastfeeding: Do I love or loathe you?

By
taylorcapps
-

Dear Breastfeeding,

We embarked on our journey 6 months ago. I worked really hard to accomplish success this time around. We didn’t work out our first go around, but this time I vowed for it to be different. Even with success, I continuously find myself asking: Do I love or loathe you?

I love you because I don’t have to make bottles. I remember the days of endlessly cleaning bottles and I find joy knowing that I don’t have to this time around. 

I loathe you because bottles don’t exist in our house. I dream of the day I can go to the store or on a date, and not have to worry about getting back soon.

 

I love you because of the convenience factor. There’s no true prep work necessary.

I loathe you because I still don’t find comfort in feeding in public. I literally break a sweat when it’s time to wrestle with a cover on a bench or chair in plain sight. 

 

I love you because I have worked hard to make it work. 

I loathe you because sometimes we have bumps in the road. 

 

I love you because it makes me stop and sit stationary. This allows me to absorb all those sweet baby moments.

I loathe you because honestly sometimes I don’t want to just sit. 

 

I love you because it’s amazing what a woman’s body can do and provide. 

I loathe you because I don’t feel like my body is mine. I don’t know the last time I’ve worn a “real” bra. I see myself one way and one way only: food provider.

 

I love you because I’m thankful to be experiencing you. 

Sincerely, 

A Breastfeeding Mom

 

Introducing Danielle Alexander: A West Bloomfield Mom

By
daniellealexander
-

Introducing Danielle!

:: Down with Detroit ::  

Besides the four years spent as a Spartan in East Lansing (GO GREEN!), I have lived in Oakland County the majority of my life. Although I do enjoy traveling to other states and countries, Michigan is definitely “home.” In addition to the fact that I love lakes, cider mills, and Greek salads from Coney Islands, I’m constantly researching new restaurants to try and interesting places, especially kid-friendly ones, to check out all over the Metro Detroit area.

Sparty gave me a hug at this year’s Duel in The D at Joe Louis Arena.

As a child, I recall only visiting the city of Detroit for random Red Wings games with my dad and, on the not-so-cold years, the Thanksgiving Day Parade. I remember gazing out the backseat window of my mom’s burgundy ‘91 Grand Caravan, wondering how these worn-down, vacant structures were once happy homes to my grandparents, two of whom immigrated to the city from Malta seeking the “American Dream.”

Like many who have been in and out of the city throughout the past decade though, I honestly become increasingly impressed with each visit. I currently reside in West Bloomfield with my husband and daughter and love that it only takes us 30 minutes to get to Detroit, a place that is undoubtedly developing on the daily.

My family and I enjoyed Sesame Street Live at Fox Theater this year.

:: My Life :: 

Chris, my very first boyfriend, proposed to me at Yates Cider Mill in Rochester Hills in 2011, and we will be celebrating our fifth anniversary this July. Throughout our marriage thus far, we obtained Master’s Degrees from Michigan State University, had a variety of career movements and changes and were beyond blessed with the greatest gift of all: the arrival of our now almost two-year-old daughter, Analise.

Chris proposed to be at Yates Cider Mill in Rochester Hills in 2011.

Pre-motherhood, I taught high school English and journalism for two years at L’Anse Creuse High School-North and then another two years at North Farmington High School. Although the profession seemed like a natural fit, and there were many aspects I loved, I knew I could no longer sacrifice my family, or me, for the long hours, low pay, high stress and unethical acts that were seemingly occurring more frequently each year that I remained in the profession.

After my maternity leave, I began tutoring and freelance writing for some extra income. It’s been over 1.5 years since I started this “path,” and I now (during naps and in the evenings) get the pleasure of working with 12 to 20 middle school, high school and college students a week and writing on a regular basis, something I sincerely enjoy but haven’t had time for in years, all while spending my days with my daughter. I honestly could not see myself as a full-time-working nor stay-at-home mom and, although it’s insane at times, truly believe I have the best of both worlds.

Chris and I got married on July 27, 2012 at St. Thomas Chaldean Catholic Church in West Bloomfield.

:: Babies & Beyond :: 

Analise Sofia, known to our family as “Mama’s Little Shadow,” came two weeks early in 2015 on April Fools’ Day, sharing a birthday with her Godmother and my little sister, Whitney. Like her aunt, she is impatient and short-tempered but probably the most enthusiastic, caring and hilarious little leader-in-the-making I have ever met. She loves her classes at The Little Gym of West Bloomfield and Born Yoga of Birmingham, and, as long as I get her a banana and avocado smoothie after, she finally lets me workout while she plays at my gym’s daycare center; I try my best to model a healthy lifestyle for her.

9-month-old Analise loved- and still loves- shopping at Target.

For my husband’s birthday this year, Analise had big news to share: she’ll be promoted to “Big Sis” this October! I’m a little nervous about the adjustment to two, but Chris and I couldn’t be happier about it. We are also extremely fortunate to live by both of our families who are always willing to help us out with Analise when needed, and I even have an amazing mother-in-law who often drops off home-cooked meals! (Yes, really).

Contributing to Detroit Moms Blog is something I’ve wanted to do for a while now. I am constantly preaching to Analise that “Nice friends share.” Not only do I love writing, but when I learn new information or experience something great in our community, I want to “be nice” and “share.”

My family and I had a blast at Huckleberry Railroad in December.
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