#ShopDetroit2016 Holiday Gift Guide

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December 1, 2016

We’re SO excited to bring you our first ever holiday gift guide focusing on shopping local. While we realize how easy it is to jump online while watching your favorite tv show why not try adding one of these local hot spots into your next trip to run errands. Some of these stores even have the option to purchase online and ship anywhere you need them to go. There truly is something special about supporting the small businesses within our community. In honor of shopping small this holiday season we’ve compiled over 50+ local businesses we think are worth checking out.

Happy Shopping!

Cranbrook Institute of Science is a must see place for all families! Its campus is one of the world’s leading centers of education, science and art. It fosters in its members and visitors a passion for understanding the world around them. It’s a place you can come and learn all things science! And well dinosaur bones!

At Lolë, wellness is a lifestyle, not an activity. Our mission is to inspire women to Live Out Loud Everyday by getting out, getting active and getting involved in their communities. Together, we can create an inspirational movement of well-being around the globe. And we are doing that, one women at a time. We are more than just activewear. Of course we have leggings, sports bras and tanks for every activity from yoga to barre to running. But, we also offer a wide variety of options for everyday, such such as sweaters, dresses, winter coats and swimwear. So, whether it’s an new outfit for date night, vacation, or just something cute and comfy for lounging, we have it! Stop in and check out the latest collection.

Madison Boutique is your spot for comfy and casual women’s clothing! Their mobile boutique stays busy in metro-Detroit hosting private parties at homes and businesses while they keep a popular storefront in Downtown Plymouth, Michigan. Madison offers sizes small-3xl, all under $50 and adds 15 new styles to the shop each week. To bring a party to you, find us online at facebook.com/MadisonBoutique. Shop online anytime with free shipping at www.shopmadisonclothing.com.

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Michigan Education Trust can give your child a gift that lasts a lifetime this year with a 529 prepaid tuition plan from Michigan Education Trust. MET contracts are an easy way to save for future college expenses at current prices. With MET’s new Pay-As-You-Go option, you can get started by purchasing a minimum of one credit hour and adding as little as $25 to the account anytime. Grandparents, other relatives and friends also can contribute. A MET contract can be used for colleges in or out of state and provide tax benefits. Get started at METforCollege.org.

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Spread some holiday cheer with a photo card from Matilda Ruth Designs! Our holiday cards are the perfect way to send Season’s Greetings to your family and friends this year. Matilda Ruth Designs is a modern stationery boutique that specializes in wedding, event, and everyday stationery. We offer both digital stationery products that you can print yourself, as well as printed stationery products that are printed on our prestige printing press. Let us help you share the magic!

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Enhance. [Skin. Body. Wellness.] is Metro Detroit’s premiere full service medical aesthetics practice and spa. We proudly offer the latest in aesthetic medicine including: cosmetic injections (Botox, dermal fillers, etc), laser skin rejuvenation, CoolSculpting, Ultherapy, chemical peels and more! We also feature a full service spa using Eminence Organic skincare. Come visit us in beautiful Plymouth, MI for your complimentary consultation and skin analysis.

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Sand, Stain & Stencil are two sisters who’ve always had a passion for telling a story in a unique and unexpected way! We’ve learned that it’s okay to make a mess & that experiments can lead to beautiful things. At Sand, Stain & Stencil, we make rustic & decorative customized signs out of wood in multiple shapes and sizes. Let us help provide you with a way to tell your own story!

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Pie making is becoming a lost art, but at Achatz Handmade Pie Company, we still do things the old-fashioned way. Many of our recipes were passed down through the generations, and we continue the tradition by using the same techniques learned in childhood. We started baking in 1993 in our Victorian home in Armada, Michigan. After moving our operation to a neighborhood, ten-acre apple orchard, Achatz Handmade Pie Company was officially born.

Featured is our signature Michigan 4-Berry pie with Blueberries, Blackberries, Cherries, and Raspberries – all from the beautiful Mitten state!

Established in 2006 by husband and wife team, Jenny and Chris McCuiston, Goldfish Swim School provides swim lessons and water safety instruction to infants and children ages four months to 12 years.

Goldfish Swim School offers state-of-the-art indoor aquatic facilities dedicated to indoor swim classes and programs for children.
Our experienced staff of Ellis-Trained swim instructors is taught to teach children to swim using unique and educational teaching equipment.
We believe in year-round, perpetual swim lessons. It’s the consistency each week that helps kids learn to be safe and confident in water.
A key part of our curriculum is teaching safety skills to kids between 4 months and 12 years old and we practice these safety skills each week.
Our pools are kept at 90 degrees to make the water inviting and comfortable for kids and parents.
Our class sizes are small (no more than four children per instructor) so kids receive the personalized attention they need to advance their learning.
Our state-of-the-art water purification system guarantees a clean, safe environment for learning swimmers.

There are seven metro Detroit locations – Farmington Hills, Canton, Macomb, Rochester, Birmingham, Ann Arbor and Clarkston.

DMB Contributor Local Love

Over here at DMB we LOVE supporting local! A few of us decided our Holiday Wish Lists were pretty amazing and we needed to share them. The businesses we mention are ones we can’t get enough of. Ones we personally shop at on a regular basis. While we could probably list pages of noteworthy businesses we limited it to 5. We hope you enjoy them!

Sanders – Sanders Hot Fudge ($4.29) This delicious hot fudge has been a favorite in my family for generations. It’s awesome on ice cream or a warm cream puff!
Gabriel’s Garden – Lavender Pillow Spray ($8.50) You’ll love the way this soothing bedtime spray smells. The perfect gift for any lavender lover on your list.
City Bird – Michigan Mitten Wood Necklace ($20) A beautiful necklace to show off your Michigan pride from one of my favorite local boutiques, City Bird!
The Inn on Ferry Street – Night Stay at The Inn on Ferry Street ($199+) Enjoy a “staycation” at the historic Midtown hotel. The rooms are located in beautiful Victorian mansions, giving the hotel a bed + breakfast feel. The complimentary breakfast and shuttle service are just a few of my favorite amenities at The Inn.
St. Julian – St. Julian Simply Red Wine ($7.99) My favorite {affordable} Michigan wine mingles layers of dark cherries, wild berries, raspberries & with a bit of plum.

Sister Pie – Salted Maple Pie ($28.00)Amazing fresh homemade ingredients put together to make a mouthwatering treat for family gatherings!
Kitty Deluxe – Unique stone and gem jewelry (Prices Vary)One of a kind, handmade necklaces, earrings, bracelets and more. I am absolutely in love with this bracelet!
Queens of Shine – Queen of Zen Balm ($12)Yoga/meditative balm made with local beeswax and organic coconut oil and essential oils. My go to for my yoga obsession!
Bon Bon Bon – Assorted Chocolate Bons (8 for $24)This little bites of goodness are hand crafted in Hamtramck and worth every penny. I would LOVE these in my stocking (hint, hint).
Dirty Girl Farms – Scented Soy Candles ($5.95) What’s inside? Soy wax and natural fragrance oils and essential oils. The smell of Lake Michigan, yes please!

EZPZ – Happy Mat ($29.99) With a little boy entering his toddler years I am quickly learning why this was even created. It’s seriously genius! Put this on your Christmas list or maybe even 2 0r 3…
Chive Kitchen – Gift Card ($13) I say $13 because I need enough to get the jalapeño burger because it is AH-MAZING! If you haven’t been here get here today. They focus on vegan dishes that appeal to a wide range of tastes — meat-lovers included. Even my meat eating husband can’t get enough of this place. You can’t go wrong with anything you order.
Honey: Space for Moms + Moms-to-be – Sweet Membership ($75) – Anyone who knows me knows they can find me in Honey’s workspace and lounge area on Thursdays. With childcare available this makes getting everything I need to that much easier. Plus, who doesn’t love working along side other like minded women?! Having a space just for us makes owning your own business that much easier. Thanks Brooke!
Catching Fireflies – Catch Fireflies Tag Sign ($9.99 ) I love anything and everything from this Michigan artist! I also love that Catching Fireflies in Berkley carries all of these cute little things. They really do have a gift for everyone.
Beach House Spa – Therapeutic Massage ($100) I love good massage but Beach House Spa is doing it all right! From the relaxing decor to the staff I can’t get enough of this place. Why can’t massages be a mandatory thing?!

More Local Favs

Polka Dot Michigan

Jenna Kator Commerce Tote

Michigan Awesome Handmade Mug

Sticky Bellies Modern Baby Book

Skinny Tees Heathered Tank

The Old White House

The Little Design Co Toddler Messenger

Jack Jack & Co

Cellar Door Bath Company

Honey: Space for Moms + Moms-to-be

Shinola Classic Bilfold – Bourbon

Rustic Maka

LaVida Massage Membership

Modern Natural Baby Wooden Teething Toys

Love & Buttercream Macarons

Yumbitz Chocolate Chip Cookies

JKM Soy Candles – Chai

River Babe Threads Mom Life T-Shirt

Bundled Gift Box

The Barre Code Monthly Membership

Change Soap Relief Bar

Small Moments Bossy With A Bun Print

Spoonfeathers Chalkboard Workshop

The Detroit Mercantile Artwork

Disclosure :: ShopDetroit2016 | A Local Holiday Shopping Guide is a sponsored post. That said, we sourced each featured business included in this holiday gift guide and also included our very favorite local ideas and companies.

To Elf or Not to Elf

By

Michelle MD

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December 1, 2016

Christmastime is upon us and all the magic that comes with it. Our little ones are only little for a short time so I like to cram all the magic I can into those years. The elf definitely falls under the category of Christmas Magic.

Every year around this time I see posts for and against the dreaded Elf! Let me be clear, I’m totally pro elf. In this post I will share with you some of the many ways our elf has added to the magic of the season. If you’re anti-elf perhaps I can entice you to try it this year! If you love the elf, as we do, then maybe you’ll find some fun ideas here for your elfing fun!

Some years the elf shows up on December 1st, some years the day after Thanksgiving, and other times he shows up when he remembers he’s supposed to, wink wink. Whenever he shows up at our house he always makes a grand entrance.

Over the years our little elf, named Jingle, has gotten into a bit of naughtiness. He TP’d the undecorated tree one year, decorated the tree with underpants another year, and used a drinking glass for a potty. Naughty Jingle!

Other times Jingle is just bored at night so he finds ways to entertain himself. He likes to play board games with friends, he also loves to play with toys and crafts, and enjoys a nice, quiet book.

Jingle finds ways to relax and be helpful as well. Who wouldn’t enjoy a nice marshmallow bath? And our little one was happy to find Jingle had changed the batteries in his RC car.

Last year our Jingle brought a friend along, a new elf in training. Of course that new new elf was pretty naughty himself. I guess that’s just how some of the younger elves are, so Jingle had to show him the ropes. In no time they were buddies and had loads of fun playing together, making a special breakfast, and writing out a grocery list.

Ya see, we have lots of fun with our elves. But do you see 25 or so pictures? Nooooo, that’s because most nights it’s enough just to remember them, let alone capture them doing something creative. Nope, there are plenty of nights when the elf just moves from one place to another.

And of course there are those nights when he didn’t move at all. Oops! Those are the nights when he was simply “too tired to travel back and forth from the North Pole”, or a certain little person woke up in the middle of the night, or too early, and interrupted elfs plans. Or that time the dog had had enough elf antics…

Admit it, it’s fun! The kids LOVE it. Every morning they wake up and can’t wait to see what the elf has been up to. Oh, and sometimes the elf can help curb some problem behaviors as well. This worked for our messy boy.

So, are you on team elf or not?!?!

Top 9 Reasons Why You Need A Cranbrook Membership

By

Erica Owens

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November 28, 2016

It only took ONE visit for my family to fall in love with Cranbrook Institute of Science. I could think of countless reasons why everyone I know should be a member (they’re running 20% OFF memberships with code DMB20!), but here’s my top nine reasons why your family needs a Cranbrook membership…

>>> Get Your Membership HERE <<<

9. Toddler Friendly

We started going to Cranbrook when my son was three. We loved the size of the museum and the layout was amazing. It’s easily done in an afternoon or stretched into a day, with wide open spaces great for toddlers and even new walkers. There are stools throughout available for kids to use so they can reach/see activities. How thoughtful is that?! Plus, there is something about toddlers and open spaces that make me overly happy. They make me think freedom, adventure and a depletion of that insane amount of energy they have built up!

8. Hands-on Stations

There are multiple hands-on stations where kids can simply see a simple physics demonstration or

build their own mineral.

7. Winter Escape

Cranbrook is an awesome retreat on frigid winter days or rainy Spring days. There are so many things to do indoors, and there are often special events or programs for families. On a sunny day, we pack our boots and hike the nature trails. For most of us Cabin Fever starts to set in and we’re itching to get our littles out. It’s an added bonus if I can escape to a place where they can learn and I can breathe a little easier. Parents need there time too. Right?!

The grounds are ever-changing through the seasons and offer so much to explore!

6. Budget-friendly Cafe

If you’re anything like me getting kids out the door can feel like a second or third job. Knowing Cranbrook has a cafe takes the stress right out of packing the perfect lunch. Don’t get me wrong, we love packing a picnic lunch but having options for those crazy days makes a huge difference. Most of the time we grab food at the museum cafe. I can’t get over the reasonable prices and healthy options! Hummus and veggies, salads, hard boiled eggs, fruit, cheese sticks and fresh sandwiches and baked goods.

5. Birthday Parties

Ready to think outside the box when planning your next birthday party? Cranbrook is ready to plan an exciting and unique party just for your little. There’s nothing like attending your child’s birthday party stress free because Cranbrook took care of everything. I think that sounds like a phenomenal and extremely enjoyable day!

My son’s dino-themed birthday party involved programming with museum staff

and a dig! Kids pretended they were paleontologists and used trowels and shovels to excavate bones.

Every kid had an amazing time and the parents had a great time too! Plus, all your guests have FREE museum admission for the day after the party. Bonus!

4. Open Late

We LOVE the museum is open until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays! If my little guy has a long or late nap, we head there after dinner. We spend an hour exploring his favorite spots. On clear nights the observatory is open! You can climb up the steps and view planets. A year ago my son viewed Saturn through the telescope and he still talks about seeing the planet’s rings. We also enjoy the museum as a date night. We take our time with the exhibits and read the signs. We’ve also attended a few After Darks, special events for adults 21+, that offer special programming, lectures, food, craft drinks, and shopping.

3. Planetarium Shows

There are multiple times offered daily – even a Sesame Street show for little kids – and the shows are in a 360-degree theater with surround sound. We’ve learned about the Michigan sky, seasons, and enjoyed special holiday shows.

2. Special Exhibits

Every few months, a new exhibit takes over Cranbrook. We thoroughly enjoyed the Rainforest Maze, but we are over the moon with the latest exhibit – Megaladon! Our whole family is fascinated by sharks and this exhibit of the largest shark that ever lived is not to miss. This exhibit leaves on January 3rd so don’t delay! But don’t worry on February 3, 2017 we say hello to the Tutankhamun Exhibit.

1. Membership Benefits

Not only does a membership pay for itself within a couple visits, it’s valid at over 300 science museums nationwide! We can use our membership at Air Zoo when we visit my parents in Kalamazoo or at Grand Rapids Public Museum when we visit my brother’s family. Plus any weekend we head to Ann Arbor, we have access to Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum!

To us, our membership is worth its weight in gold. Our son has been exposed to so many things in the world of

science and we’ve attended so many programs throughout the year as a family. We are thrilled that our membership is growing with us. First, we would spend an hour or two on his favorite spots. Now we spend the day at the museum and often are the last to leave. Next year he’ll be eligible for summer camp!

Looking for the same experiences, grab your membership at 20% OFF here. Be sure to use code DMB20. It’s eligible on all levels!

>>> Get Your Membership HERE <<<

The Gift of Gratitude: Raising Thankful Kids

By

kristinevazzano

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November 21, 2016

Did you know that gratitude is more of a learned trait than an innate one?

Let’s all take a sigh of relief!

That means the tantrums, occasional failure to recognize something special, or forgetting to say thank you doesn’t automatically mean you are raising an entitled kid. Developmentally, young children tend to be self-centered at their core. Often, they don’t intend to appear unappreciative or ungrateful. Early on, they simply do not understand or know any better. As parents, it is our job to teach them the art of gratitude and the value in what they have so they can transition from that self-centered place to one of empathy and compassion.

As we approach this season of Thanksgiving, here are some ideas to help you celebrate the season and facilitate the practice of gratitude.

Help your children write thank you cards expressing why they are thankful for people in their lives (e.g. teachers, grandparents, public safety workers, neighbors)
Make a gratitude tree. Each day before Thanksgiving, write something you are grateful for on a leaf and add it to the tree.
Participate in acts of service. Find a way to give back that means something to your family.
Ask your kids draw pictures of the things they appreciate the most in their lives.
Create an ABC’s of Thanksgiving journal. For each letter of the alphabet, encourage your child to draw or write about something they are grateful for.
On Thanksgiving Day, kick off the meal by having each guest say what he or she has been thankful for over the past year.
This holiday season have your kids write a giving list. The list can include gifts they would like to make or buy for others.

Gratitude is developed by regularly modeling the practice. Although it is a very important part of the holiday season, developing regular practices that acknowledge what we are thankful for is important in teaching children compassion, appreciation, and the gift of giving to others.

Here are some ways you can make gratitude a part of your family’s daily routine:

As you sit around the dinner table, reflect on what you are grateful for each day.
As parents, we can model gratitude. Kids learn best by seeing what we do! Make a point to thank the people around you and verbalize your appreciation for others and the things you value (big and small!)
Engage in your own acts of service.
See the glass as half full! Rather than talking about the things you “have to do” make a point to discuss the things you “get to do” Small shifts in how we communicate send powerful messages!

Gratitude not only makes us kinder and more compassionate people, it also makes us happier! Did you know grateful people have more empathy, feel less stressed and have higher levels of self-esteem? What are some ways you have taught your kids to acknowledge and express their gratitude?

Three Turkey Day Recipes to be Thankful For

By

aubreymoon

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November 21, 2016

Stuffing, sweet potatoes, and dessert, oh my!

There aren’t many days that it’s socially acceptable to eat until you’re full, however, Thanksgiving may be one of them. And if your family is anything like mine, there’s usually enough food to feed a small army. I’ve been taught by two generations before me how to prepare for the most delicious holiday of the year. Heck, I even hosted my own FriendsGiving for three years in college! Needless to say, without family or friends, Thanksgiving dinner (or late lunch as we do it) would be nothing. This Thanksgiving season I’m sharing some of our family’s favorite recipes. I hope they bring your belly as much love as they do to mine!

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What are your family’s favorite Thanksgiving recipes? Share them in the comments!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Costco Mom Hour {Recap}

By

Elizabeth Lewis

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November 18, 2016

I’m pretty sure by now everyone already knows how much Midwesterners love Costco! It’s a thing. We seriously love it! With that said you can venture to guess that our Costco Mom Hour was nothing short of AH-MAZING. Four locations opened their doors for one (two if your location opened early) hour just for YOU! For you to shop without the crowds, to enjoy a delicious Costco breakfast, grab some pretty sweet swag and get to know exactly what Costco has to offer.

Lets start off by saying those oversized Costco teddy bears are where friendships are made. We loved every minute of watching kids crawl all over them, love them and get photographed on them. Some moms met at the teddy bears, exchanged numbers and became the best of friends over attempting to photograph their children on these adorable bears. A huge shoutout to Costco for creating this adorable space for our littles.

One thing I loved about this Costco Mom Hour was how much the staff were into it. Loving on each member or nonmember that walked through the door. They showed us not only the perks of becoming a member but how much the staff truly enjoy what they do. As many of you know their samples are insanely good and we’ve probably purchased whole meals because of Costco samples. Can you say Costco Chicken Pot Pie?! Well done Costco, well done!

Something they showcased that morning was a group of name brand products and a group of Kirkland Signature. You could guess the difference between the two bundles of products which was extremely interesting. As moms we always wonder exactly who much we’re saving. Just in case you were aware we’ll share the price difference with you. Drum roll please…

And the answer is $279.50

We are truly thankful for such an amazing partnership with Costco and we can’t wait to bring you another Costco Mom Hour. By opening their doors for moms {dads, grandmas and grandpas} to have an exclusive shopping experience it allowed them to see the benefit of Costco for themselves. Not only was the membership special an insane deal but what they offered that morning was far more than that. They offered the ability to gather with friends and enjoy a morning designed with them in mind.

And for our Future Costco Members the ability to get cozy and extremely large teddy bears.

And for women to have fun with one another.

And for the sake of cuteness. You’re welcome!

We want to give a HUGE shoutout to the managers that made all of this possible. For making everyone feel welcomed and taken care of. From the Detroit Mom Blog team we thank YOU!

Lastly, we want to give a major shout out to Emma Burcusel from Emma Burcusel Photography for the candid photos you see in this post. We love them and your talent!

Oh, and how we can forget the swag?! What was your favorite Kirkland Signature product?

2016 Ultimate Holiday Guide {In + Around Detroit}

By

Detroit Mom

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November 18, 2016

It may only be the third week of November but we are quickly closing in on Thanksgiving with Christmas right around the corner. To make planning your holiday season easier, we’ve created posts to help you find exactly what you’re looking for (stay tuned as we add events as they come in)! Each of the below images will take you to a guide specific to that topic. From holiday lighting to parades, visits with Santa to festivals, this will be your BEST resource for all things Christmas! Or just your favorite holiday guide! Did we miss an event? Let us know in the comments so we can add it to the list!

Fall Family Festival Recap and {Exclusive Membership Deal}

By

Erica Owens

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November 17, 2016

Sunny and a high of 70 degrees for October 29? A beyond perfect forecast for our Fall Family Festival! When registration opened, 650 people poured through the gate and it warmed our heart to see so many donations of toiletries and warm outerwear for Pope Francis Center, before they immersed themselves in family fun.

The Venue :: Cranbrook Institute of Science

A venue of gorgeous landscaped grounds with leaves turning everywhere? Cranbrook Institute of Science was an amazing host offering lots of hands-on activities amongst our festival of local sponsors offering food, shopping and play.

Cranbrook hosted six science stations at the festival! Some of the biggest hits among families were liquid nitrogen demonstrations,

holding live Madagascar hissing cockroaches,

and pretending to be paleontologists using tools to dig for bones.

(Make sure you read this post to the end! There’s a CRAZY deal from Cranbrook!)

Our Lovely Co-Title Sponsors: Fairytale Entertainment & Goldfish Swim School

Fairytale Entertainment painted lots of little faces

inspired song with Belle

and wowed superhero fans with Captain America and Spiderman.

Goldfish passed out bubbles and tattoos to the kiddos while parents learned about swim school packages to foster safe and strong swimming habits. Bubbles made his way all over Cranbrook. Did you get a chance to hang out with him?

A huge highlight of the day was Bloomfield Hills Fire Department driving in a fire truck and opening the doors for kids to explore!

Table and Activity Sponsors

Of course part of the fun was shopping and food from local companies!

Huge shoutout to all of our table sponsors for highlighting their products and services that make families’ lives easier and better: H20 ID, Sand Stain and Stencil, Costco, Madison Boutique, Essential Family Chiropractic, The Dailey Method, Usborne Books, CycleBar, Mickey’s Travel, Queens of Shine and RUNdetroit.

Food Sponsors: Costco, Queens of Shine & Michael Dean Law

Who doesn’t love Costco’s signature cake?! We could sit with a fork and just eat it up! There is something so delicious about it. A huge thank you to Costco for bringing cake, waters, juice boxes and snacks for everyone. We hope you indulged in a HUGE piece of cake!

Along with their signature, and some adorable seasonal products {think foot scrubs!}, Queens of Shine shared some amazing homemade sweets with the crowd. Their Energy Bites, Mini-Cupcakes and Peppermint Brownies, made with all natural ingredients and essential oils, were a hit with kids and adults alike – YUM!

Another thank you goes out to Michael Dean Law for providing the popcorn. Popcorn is one of those snacks you could unconsciously eat a tremendous amount of. We’re pretty sure several of us did that!

Photography: Emma Burcusel Photography

And an even bigger shoutout to the amazing Emma Burcusel for the beautiful photos of our event! We think she did a fantastic job capturing the feel of the whole event. Don’t forget to check her out.

Facebook | Instagram | Website

Trunk or Treat: Eastman & Wozniak Pediatrics

Midway through, a few hundred kids enjoyed Trunk or Treat with their families. A huge thank you to Eastman & Wozniak Pediatrics for providing the candy for each trunk. Not only was the candy great but have a trunk that was decorated to the theme of the Teal Pumpkin Project was so fun! You never really realize just how many children are affected by allergies.

and we wrapped up the Festival with AMAZING giveaways

from Goldfish Swim School, ezpz, OrthoticShop.Com, Usborne Books, Nature’s Playhouse, “…have you any wool?”, Detroit Kid City, Bricks for Kidz, Toledo Zoo, The Law Offices of John M. Leh, P.C., Keys to Success, Costco, Sand, Stain and Stencil, Lolë, Queens of Shine and RUNdetroit.

Afterwards, many families took advantage of the free museum admission and spent the remainder of the day inside Cranbrook Institute of Science. They explored collections from minerals to Native American artifacts, stood under T. Rex, pet mastodon fur and enjoyed admission to the special Megaladon exhibit. Cranbrook was delighted so many families enjoyed the museum and they want you to return.

>>> Membership Discount <<<

They’re offering 20% off every level of membership (go here and use code DMB20) . That’s right, even the enhanced memberships including all kinds of perks! Let’s break this down to see the benefits…

A family of four attending the museum for the day would spend $13 per adult and $9.50 per child 12 and under for admission. Planetarium costs $5 per person and Megaladon special exhibit costs $6 per adult and $4 per child. Your day would cost a minimum of $85.

There are many different membership levels, but let’s say you purchase All Access Pass for $200 (retail $250) with your DMB discount. You receive admission to thmuseum plus access to planetarium and Megaladon exhibit. Plus, you get to bring TWO guests per visit for FREE and they can enjoy planetarium passes too! This membership would pay for itself in 2-3 visits! Another added perk is unlimited access to Cranbrook Art Museum ($10 retail) and Cranbrook House and Gardens. This deal on all membership levels only lasts until November 30. Perfect family gift for the holidays! Your membership also gains you invites to members-only events and discounts at the science shop and cafe, and a percentage off on birthday parties and camps. And…as if all of this isn’t intriguing enough…your Cranbrook membership card gets you free or discounted admission to almost 300 science museums nationwide. How cool is that for family travel!?

Enjoy 20% off all levels of Cranbrook Institute of Science memberships until November 30.

Use code DMB20 here.

From the whole DMB team we thank YOU for taking time out of your day to attend our first Fall Family Festival at Cranbrook Institute of Science. We can’t wait to see you at our next event!

Divorce: Tips from A Family Law Attorney

By

Lacey Salerno

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November 16, 2016

I am likely one of the few who decided when I was young what I wanted to do, and was able to do exactly that. I went to law school knowing that I wanted to practice Family Law, and was fortunate enough to work for a firm right out of school that allowed me to do so. I learned quite a bit during that phase of my practice, mainly that I didn’t want to be a Family Law attorney after all.

I did however gain a great deal of insight into the divorce process from the outside and would like to share some helpful advice for those who find themselves contemplating this path:

• Divorce will not solve all of your problems, especially if you have children together, they will still be there, and most likely will be intensified.

• Divorce is not a threat to be leveraged in the heat of the moment. I know many of us have been so angry that we have launched that missile just to see the resulting explosion, but this is a very serious life decision with very serious consequences, and such a threat may result (often unexpectedly) in one party actually following through on it.

• If divorce is inevitable, shop for an attorney like you would shop for a doctor. Ask for referrals, read reviews, ask to meet with attorneys to see if you click. You need to establish a comfort level with a person because you will have to divulge more to them then you have to your closest friends.

• Your attorney is on your side, trust me! At times they may be the only one who will advise you honestly and look out for your well-being. Attorneys are ethically obligated to represent YOUR interests once they are retained.

• You and your (ex)spouse need to discuss and decide what custody arrangement will work best for you and YOUR CHILDREN. Only you know what your kids need, and only you know what will work logistically for your lifestyle. If you leave it to the Friend Of The Court or the judge to decide, I can assure you that no one will be happy, mainly your kids.

• It is best for you and your (ex)spouse to be fully aware of all debts, assets, accounts, etc. prior to meeting with an attorney.

• Your attorney will bill you for every document, call, email, hearing and meeting. Just as a dentist charges to fill a cavity or do a cleaning, your attorney will charge for legal services and legal advice. This is their profession and it is how they make their living.

• Your attorney doesn’t think you are nuts, and is not judging you. I can assure you that we have heard it all!

• Remember that your kids are the most important thing in all of this, and that they need to know that they are loved by both of you and that you put them first. It is important to show one another kindness and respect and it may be the hardest thing you have to do.

• Take care of yourself and lean on those you are close to. Ask for help when you need it and accept it when it is offered.

It may seem like the end of the world when faced with a divorce, but I promise you that it does end, and your life will return to a new type of normal, so hang in there!

Only Chicken Tenders, Fries & Ketchup: Managing Picky Eating

By

kristinevazzano

-

November 14, 2016

Although feeding young children can be stressful for parents, it is important to remember eating can be tough on young kids too!

Most, if not all, young children have specific food preferences and at one time or another can be selective (or picky!) about food. Young children are often reluctant to try foods that are unfamiliar or look different. Even more mind boggling, little ones quickly change taste preferences seemingly overnight. A favorite food one day can be despised the next. You often have to let your child try a food 15-20 times (if they will do it!) before they learn to like it.

True picky eating that goes beyond these patterns is a bit more extreme. Picky eaters get upset when they see unfamiliar food and will only eat a few select favorites (chicken nuggets, French fries, hot dogs are popular rotations for many picky eaters). Often it is hard for picky eaters to eat in unfamiliar places, or they prefer the food at only a specific place. For example, only pizza from Jets is makes the cut. An outing to a restaurant or a party can suddenly become loaded with stress if they don’t feel comfortable with the food options provided.

The natural response for most parents is to offer encouragement by saying “Just try it.” Unfortunately, gentle prodding is typically ineffective, and encouragement quickly becomes a negotiation of “just one bite.”

Food battles don’t work. They become battles of will versus anything about food.

SO what do you do, mama of a Picky Eater?

Focus on the uncomfortable feelings about the disliked food. You can’t logic the fear out of picky eating!
Continue to provide regular meals and snacks in a structured manner so your child comes to the table hungry.
Allow them freedom to choose from what you provide for each snack and meal.
Do your best to have regular family meals that are enjoyable and not focused on what your kids are or are not eating.
Go on “food adventures” by providing new foods paired with foods you know your child likes.
Implement the idea of “food chaining” which allows you to expand slowly on your child’s food preferences. For example, if your child only eats one brand of chicken nuggets, slowly introduce a new brand. Once that is accepted, you can then provide chicken tenders versus nuggets, eventually moving up to chicken prepared in different ways.
Avoid pressure to eat. Believe it or not, the statement “You don’t have to eat that,” can be a game changer.

If the picky eating continues and you are concerned about your child’s health or you see increased anxiety, it may be helpful to consult with your pediatrician or a dietitian who specializes in childhood feeding. Kristine Vazzano is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in eating disorders. For more information about eating disorders, visit www.mindfullness.com or follow her on twitter at MindfullnessED.

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