Detroit Easter Egg Hunts

By

-

March 17, 2016

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 spring fun that is an Egg Hunt in Metro Detroit!

Oakland County

Friday, March 18th

**Farmington Hills: ADULT Flashlight Hunt, Longacre House**

Friday, March 18 7:00p – 9:00p

Bring your own flashlight and enjoy a fun-filled evening searching for eggs, and also winning
prizes for golf outings, dinner at local restaurants, and more. Enjoy salad, pizza,
and breadsticks for dinner, with a cash bar offering beer and wine. The fee is $12
residents/$17 non-residents. Register by March 16 or until sold out.

**Ages 21+ ONLY

West Bloomfield: Spring Fling Egg Hunt, Drake Sports Park

Friday,March18 6:30p&;7:30p

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. A petting farm and cookie decorating will round out the event. Check-in will begin 30 minutes prior to each heat. Each session will be divided into two groups by age. This event typically sells out so early registration is highly recommended. 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.

Ages 1-7 yrs.

West Bloomfield: Spring Fling Flashlight Egg Hunt, Drake Sports Park

Friday, March 18 8:30p

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 7:45 and 8:15 pm Event will begin when it is dark (approximately 8:30.) 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. On site registration fee is $10. Pre-registration is $5 for residents and $7 for non-residents.

Ages 5-12 yrs

Saturday, March 19th

Clawson: Easter Egg Hunt, Clawson City Park

Saturday, March 19 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.

Ferndale: Egg-stravaganza Community Egg Hunt, Various Parks – See link

Saturday, March 19 1:00p – 3:00p

Come on out and enjoy an Egg Hunt at one of our local Ferndale parks! Each hunt will feature two separate areas for toddlers ages 0-3 and children 4-12. If a child finds a golden egg, his or her parents get a special prize! Everyone is welcome to each scheduled hunt, but we encourage you to walk to your nearest scheduled location as to avoid parking issues. After all hunts are complete, meet back up at Martin Road Park for light refreshments and pictures with the Easter bunny!

Ages: 12 & Under

Highland: Huron Valley Egg Hunt, Duck Lake Pines Park

Saturday, March 19 10:00a

Easter Bunny arrives at 10 am. Goody Bags distributed beginning at 10 to the first 500 children. FREE face painting, FREE bounce house (weather permitting) and FREE egg hunt
Bring your own camera for pictures with the Easter Bunny
Egg Hunt times as follows:
11 am ~ 2 – 4 year olds
11:10 am~ 5 – 7 year olds
11:20 am ~ 8 – 10 year olds

Holly: Spring Egg Hunt, Holly Twp Beach

Saturday, March 19 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

Pontiac: Easter Event, First Presbyterian Church

Saturday, March 19 10:00a

Join us for a pancake brunch, children’s Easter Egg Hunt, activities with the Easter Bunny and a special storytime where all will hear about the power of Easter.

Rochester: Easter Egg Hunt, Rochester Play

Saturday, March 19 8:45a

Join us for a morning of egg hunting fun followed by open play and a visit with the Easter bunny on Sat, March 19. Doors opening at 8:45am and hunt starts at 9am!

Rochester: Easter at the Village, The Village of Rochester Hills

Saturday, March 19 10:00a

An interactive, family scavenger egg hunt will take you all around the Village to gather goodies! We are suggesting a donation of $5 per child or $10 a family for this event and 100% will go to The Rainbow Connection.

Rochester: Easter Egg Hunt, Rochester Park Kiwanis Shelter

Saturday, March 19 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

Troy: Easter Egg Hunt, Community Center

Saturday, March 19 5:00p – 8:30p

Grab your basket and hop over to this egg hunt, kids can hunt for treat-filled plastic eggs on the gymnasium floor. After the hunt, the gym will feature a moon bounce and games. Swim in the indoor pool and find the gold eggs for prizes. Bring your phone to take a photo with the Easter Bunny. There will be three classes of egg hunters: Sunny Bunnies kids up to age 3: 6 pm, $5; Cotton Tails kids ages 4-7: 6:30 pm, $8; Hip Hoppers ages 8-12: 7 pm, $8.

Ages: 12 & Under

Wolverine Lake: Easter Bunny Luncheon & Egg Hunt, Richardson Center – Commerce

Saturday, March 19 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

Sunday, March 20th

Farmington Hills: Pizza & Eggs, Costick Center

Sunday, March 20 12:30p – 2:00p

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 March 16 or until full.

Novi: Eggstravaganza, Fuerst Park

Sunday, March 20 2:00p – 4:00p

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

Ages 2 and up

Wixom: Easter Egg Hunt, Gilbert Willis Park

Sunday, March 20 1:00p

Registration begins at 12:00 p.m. and the Hunt begins at 1:00 p.m. Cost is $3 per child.

Thursday, March 24th

Milford: Fun on the Farm Egg Hunt, Kensington Metropark Farm Center

Thursday, March 24 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!) $5 (cash only) per child; Babies 12 months and under free. 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

Ages: 4 & Under

Oxford: Teen Flashlight Egg Hunt, Powell Lake Township Park

Thursday, March 24 7:45p

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. Cost: $10 (Oxford Residents: $8)

Ages: 10 – 17

Springfield Twp: Teen Flashlight Egg Hunt, Mill Pond Park – Davisburg

Thursday, March 24 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, $10/person

Friday, March 25th

Royal Oak: Bunnyville, Detroit Zoo

Friday, March 25 & Saturday, March 26 10:00a – 4:00p

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). New this year is an additional egg hunt for children ages 2 to 5. The Off Broadway Productions musical “The Bunny Follies” will be performed at noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. 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, Mill Pond Park – Davisburg

Friday, March 25 Ages 4 & Under: 11:00a – 1:00p; Ages 5 – 12 2:00p – 4:00p

Hop on out to Mill Pond Park for our eggcellent 18th 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. Parking is limited. Egg hunts will begin promptly at 11am and 2pm. Registration is required by 5pm on Thursday, March 24^th.

Ages: Up to 12

Saturday, March 26th

Auburn Hills: Easter Egg Hunt & Bonnet Contest, Civic Center Park

Saturday, March 26 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.

Royal Oak: Bunnyville, Detroit Zoo

Friday, March 25 & Saturday, March 26 10:00a – 4:00p

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). New this year is an additional egg hunt for children ages 2 to 5. The Off Broadway Productions musical “The Bunny Follies” will be performed at noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3 p.m. 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.

Lake Orion: Easter Egg Hunt, Bald Mountain Recreation Center

Saturday, March 26 11:00a – 12:00p

Over 3,000 candy-filled eggs will be available for the hunt, as well as a variety of games and activities. The egg hunt will be divided into two different divisions; 1-4 year old division and 5-12 year old division. The child to find the golden egg will receive the grand prize! Enter in the park off of East Greenshield Road, approximately one mile east of M-24.

Ages: 12 & Under

Lake Orion: Easter Egg Hunt, Canterbury Village King’s Court Castle

Saturday, March 26 3:00p

Easter Bunny, clowns, egg hunt and magic show!

Milford: The Great Egg Hunt at Maple Beach, Kensington Metropark Farm Center

Saturday, March 26 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! $5 (cash only) per child; Babies 12 months & under free.

All Ages

Novi: Egg Hunt, Paradise Park

Saturday, March 26 10:30a

Doors open at 10:15, Hunt begins at 10:30 Thousands of Eggs with Candy, Toys, Arcade Tokens & More Only $7.00 per person. After the hunt stay for our Lunch Buffett

Oxford: Easter Bunny Bonanza, Seymour Lake Township Park

Saturday, March 26 1:00p

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.

Southfield: Eggstravaganza, Southfield Pavilion

Saturday, March 26 11:00a – 1:30p

Activities include: an obstacle course, themed games and various activities, moonwalk, face painting, Miniature Motorways and prize station! Food and some craft activities will be available for an additional cost.

Ages: 14 & Under

Sylvan Lake: Annual Glow Egg Hunt, Community Center

Saturday, March 26, 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

Saturday, March 26 10:00a & 1:00p

It’s time for Indian Springs’ annual Egg Scramble. Rosco the Clown will entertain families with his fabulous show. Try your hand at some cute crafts while you wait for your age group’s Egg Scramble to begin. Of course the Easter Bunny will be here to visit with the children and have photos taken. 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.

Wayne County

Saturday, March 19th

Canton: Easter Eggstravaganza, Heritage Park

Saturday, March 19 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. Fee: $3 per child R/ $4 per child NR, on-site registration

Ages: Up to 11 yrs

Grosse Ile: Annual Easter Event, Centennial Farm

Saturday, March 19 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

Saturday, March 19 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!

New Boston: Egg Scramble, Willow Metropark

Saturday, March 19 10:00a & 1:00p

Join us at the Willow Metropark Food Bar for crafts, games, candy and an Easter Egg Scramble. We might even get a visit from the Easter Pig! Advanced Ticket Purchase Only. $6 per child

Tuesday, March 22nd

Detroit: Teen Aqua Egg Hunt, Williams Community Center Pool

Tuesday, March 22 5:00p – 7:00p

Hunt for eggs in the pool and retrieve eggs for prizes. Proper swim attire required (swimsuit, trunks, jammers, etc.) T-shirts are not allowed.

Ages: 13 – 17

Wednesday, March 23rd

Detroit: Hop Along Eggstravaganza, Williams Community Center

Wednesday, March 23 5:00p

Egg Hunt, Egg Races, Face Painting, Craft & Prizes. All activities will be outside weather permitting. Free!

Ages: 12 & Under

Saturday, March 26th

Brownstown, Easter Egg Scramble, Lake Erie Metropark Marshlands Museum & Nature Center

Saturday, March 26 10:00a; 1:00p & 4:00p

It’s Easter and you know what that means! Egg hunts, crafts, games, and a petting zoo. What are you waiting for? Sign up in advance and get ready for some fun! Advanced Ticket Purchase Only. $6.00 per child

Detroit: Easter Fun Fest, Historic Fort Wayne

Saturday, March 26 10:00a – 2:00p

Easter Fun for Everyone! Easter Egg Hunts for All Ages, Egg-Mazing Race (2 person team to 1 youth and 1 adult)), Fairy Garden Craft, Face Painting, Candy, Food Demonstration & much more! FREE! Dress for the weather.

All Ages

Livonia: Egg Hunt, Rotary Park

Saturday, March 26 12:00p

Register the day of the event from 11:15 a.m. – 11:45 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!

Ages: 10 & Under

Northville: Egg-Stravaganza, Maybury State Park

Saturday, March 26 10:30a – 12:00p

Meet at the Trailhead Shelter. Join us for games, crafts, seed planting, and, of course, meet The Easter Bunny and Smokey-The-Bear! Egg Hunts for 4 & under and 5 & over starting at 11:40a. Recreation Passport required for entry.

Plymouth: Lions Club Easter Egg Hunt, Township Park

Saturday, March 26 10:00a

The Plymouth Lions Club will host an Easter Egg Hunt for children up to age 10 on Saturday, March 26 at the Township Park on Ann Arbor Trail beginning at 10 a.m. Children will be divided into age groups of 0-3, 4-6, 7-8 and 9-10. Parents and kids are encouraged to bring baskets for the eggs. Collection boxes will also be available as the Lions collect used or unwanted eye glasses, cellphones and hearing aids. The hunt is free, but donations are always welcome.

Ages: 10 & Under

Macomb County

Saturday, March 19th

Ray: Toddler Egg Scramble, Wolcott Mill Metropark Farm and Nature Centers

Saturday, March 19 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. $5 per child. Preregistration only please.

Shelby Twp: Easter Egg Scramble, Stony Creek Metropark

Saturday, March 19 1:00p

Join us for an Easter Egg Scramble. Then meet the Easter Bunny, make a craft and more! The egg scramble will be grouped by age. All ages welcome! Preregistration and prepayment required. Cost: $6 per child. Call the Stony Creek Metropark Nature Center at 586-781-9113 to register.

Sterling Heights: **Special Needs Egg Hunt**, Rockpointe Church

Saturday, March 19 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

Saturday, March 19 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, as well as special “Golden Eggs” that will have a token for a special gift courtesy of Genisys Credit Union. Bring your own basket for egg collection! This is an outdoor, rain or shine, event with no registration and no payment required.

Sunday, March 20th

Ray: Farm Egg Scramble, Wolcott Mill Metropark Farm and Nature Centers

http://www.metroparks.com/Wolcott-Mill-Metropark/Events

Sunday, March 20 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 person at the door.

Shelby Twp: ‘Egg’Citing Easter, Burgess-Shadbush Nature Center

Sunday, March 20 1:00p – 4:00p

This event will feature an egg hunt, Easter bag and egg decorating activities, and a chance to take a picture with the Easter Bunny. Remember to register for this event and bring 6 hard-boiled eggs for decorating! Fee is $4 per participating child.

Saturday, March 26th

St Clair Shores: Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Blossom Health Park

Saturday, March 26 12:00p

Thousands of eggs will be available for children to search for in three age-group areas: 0-3, 4-7, and 8 years and older. In addition, every child attending will receive a raffle ticket and at the end of the hunt, 25 girls and 25 boys will win Easter baskets.

All Ages

Washtenaw County

Sunday, March 20th

Dexter: Easter Egg Scramble, Hudson Mills Metropark

Sunday, March 20 12:00p – 2:00p

Celebrate the beginning of spring at the Hudson Mills Easter Egg Scramble. Enjoy the animal show, face painting and a visit with the Easter Bunny before and after the scramble for the Easter eggs. Pre-register and save $2 per child. $4 Kids (12 and under) or at the door $6. To purchase tickets in advance, call the Hudson Mills Park Office at (734) 426-8211.

Saturday, March 26th

Ann Arbor: Spring Eggstravaganza, Lillie Park South – Pittsfield Twp

Saturday, March 26 11:00a – 1:00p

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

Saturday, March 26 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 and 6-7. 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! Price: Member Fee: $8.00; Non Member Fee: $8.00

Ages: 2 – 7

I Used to Be the “Fat” Girl: Overcoming Labeling

By

Courtney

-

March 15, 2016

I used to be the “fat” girl. Weight has always been an issue of mine, long before I even knew it was an “issue” one could be plagued with. I never quite fit into the string-bean category of so many of my girlfriends growing up. I remember the subtle comments, the occasional snickers behind my back. My aunt used to tell me that I had a basketball in my tummy. At the time, I didn’t even know what she was referencing. I eventually figured it out. Sure, my aunt was teasing, but her comments weren’t funny. It hurts to be labeled, regardless of age. It sticks with you.

I used to be the “fat” girl. I have never been able to eat whatever I’ve wanted without consequence, not even as a child. I can literally look at a cookie and gain a pound. I did lean out as an active teenager, a product of playing sports year-round. Moreover, I was raised in an omnivorous household: we ate everything from hamburgers to octopus. Salad and a vegetable were dinner table staples, and fruit was always in the bowl on the counter. I was never thin like so many of my friends, and I struggled painfully with body image, but I was healthy. In retrospect, I wish I could have taken more pride in myself, and had more of a concept of my self worth. But hindsight is always 20/20, isn’t it?

I used to be the “fat” girl. I was not so healthy in college. Beer drinking, late-night-pizza-eating and the absence of playing a team sport quickly caught up with me. My mom confronted me about it. It’s one of those conversations I’ll never forget: she said I didn’t look happy, that perhaps taking some time to care for my whole self might help my overall outlook. I was hurt, but she was right. It took me a long time to realize that my mom wasn’t criticizing my size, she simply wanted me to be happy. She wanted her daughter to be comfortable and confident in her own skin. I wasn’t, and it showed.

I used to be the “fat” girl. Post college, I started to get into running. It was an awesome stress reliever during a grueling graduate school and work schedule, and it made me feel great. It was hard and I was never amazing at it, but there was a certain kind of personal accomplishment in pounding feet to pavement that I had never felt with exercise before. I participated in a local 5K race. It was tough; I wanted to quit several times. But I persevered, and took first place for my age group. Granted, I think there was only one other person in my category, but I was so proud of my little victory. It was a true confidence builder for my post-college/not-quite-yet-adult self. The pride I gleaned from running went a long way in helping me establish and nurture the roots of my adult self-image.

I used to be the “fat” girl. I didn’t love being pregnant. While there were many beautiful moments, my first and third trimesters were pretty much spent nursing migraines, and eating anything that didn’t smell putrid and would actually stay down. I surpassed my six-foot-tall, very fit husband in weight during each pregnancy; I’m 5’5″. I eventually trained myself to look away from the scale; I would literally avert my eyes during doctor appointments. I was assured that my weight gain wasn’t excessive, but to someone who has been conscious of weight and body image for more than half of her life, watching the numbers climb ever-upward was a huge source of anxiety. I forced myself to take a proverbial step back: this wasn’t about me – it was about nurturing the child growing inside of me – and I would do it all over again in a heartbeat. Welcoming my babies into the world was nothing short of magical. I’m still in awe of what the female body – my body! – is able to accomplish during pregnancy.

I used to be the “fat” girl. After having three babies in four-and-a-half years, my body needed some TLC. I made a conscious decision after the birth of my daughter to take care of myself. I decided to eat more cleanly; I have attempted to build more muscle tone and endurance through various forms of exercise. It’s not always easy. I struggle often. But the pay-off is what motivates me: I can run around outside with my kids without stopping to catch my breath; I can push a double stroller containing some one-hundred pounds of children up a hill for a walk; I can lift and hold my fifty-pound son if he needs Mommy to hug and cuddle with him. Ensuring that I have the sustained energy to keep up with my very active brood is what makes me happy, what makes me comfortable and confident in my own skin.
A by-product of my approach has been a significant weight loss, and a change in body shape. My Grandma has nicknamed me “skinny”. She’s ninety-four and the matriarch of the family, so I wouldn’t dare openly contradict her, but I’ve never been skinny. Moreover, I’ve worked so hard to overcome labeling in my life, that it’s difficult to like or even accept any sort of classification, however well-intentioned. I am what I’ve always been: me. I’ll always have hips, broad shoulders and – let’s be honest – that annoying back fat that sneaks out from underneath my bra straps. The worst. After my three pregnancies, I also have a stomach that resembles something between a raisin and a prune….I don’t know, I guess it’s a rune? It makes me laugh every time I look at it, but in a good way; it reminds me of where I’ve been, and what my amazing body has accomplished.

I used to be the “fat” girl. I hope my sweet little girl will never be scarred by this label. I pray that she won’t be the teenager crying in the department store dressing room, that she’ll never experience the self doubt or the sense of worthlessness that comes from perceiving that you don’t belong because your particular body shape – however healthy – doesn’t fit into the skinny jeans, or whatever current fashion trend is king. I hope my son is never hurt by the comments that are already being uttered about him, however subtle: ‘he’s how old?’, ‘wow, he’s so big!’, ‘he weighs that much?’. But the world is tough. People judge and categorize one another. I’d like to think we’re all just a little bit better than that, but who among us hasn’t been guilty of defining another person in limited and narrowing terms, be it “fat” or “thin”?

I used to be the “fat” girl. But I’m not a girl anymore. I’m a mother in charge of raising part of the next generation, and I want to make sure that I’m doing the best job possible.
I hope I’m leading by example.

I hope I’m teaching my children that – regardless of the label another person may place on you, regardless of body size or shape – the most important thing is to be happy and confident in who you are.

Top Five Tips for Protecting Your Social Media Privacy

By

jessicasafadi

-

March 13, 2016

Love it or hate it, the fact is that Facebook is a part of our modern day lifestyle, especially with the easy access that we can obtain to the internet through our smart phones. On occasion, I will have to admit that I have made mistakes by posting an angry comment or posting embarrassing photos of myself. As an adult I make mistakes, learn from them and move on.

When I sign up for a social media account like Facebook I am deliberately agreeing to allow social media to use my personal data to some degree. But what about my child? Should I expose my beautiful angel to social media?

As most new proud parents, after the birth of my daughter I wanted to show her off to the world, especially to my family and friends who don’t live nearby and who live overseas. Everyone loves pictures of newborns, right? But now that my angel has grown older, was it too much too fast? Is it ethical to publish a picture of someone who is unable to give their consent?

I have my privacy settings on Facebook set so that my friends are the only ones allowed access to my photos. But I constantly think of the “what if” scenarios. For example, what if my pictures are shared by my friends and then their friends continue to share them again and so on. Then I don’t know who exactly is looking at my pictures anymore. The worst “what if” scenario that I am terrified of is the pictures ending up in the wrong hands, for instance a pornographer. For me, the real problem comes when once I have posted a picture on the Internet then there is no way of getting it back.
It is true that on occasion some corrupt events can happen when sharing photos online, but for me the trick is to be smart when doing so.

Here are some steps that I have taken to ensure that when and if I do continue to share my child milestones on social media that the pictures do not fall into the wrong set of hands:
1. Lower the resolution on your pictures. By doing this is makes it harder to print and enlarge pictures.
2. Turn off the GPS services when posting pictures from your phone. This allows for more discretion of where you are at the moment of the picture is taken.
3. Avoid taking photos with local landmarks; don’t upload pictures of your child with markers in the background that can indicate where the photo was taken.
4. Most importantly customize your privacy settings. For example my photo albums that include pictures of my child I have customized the privacy settings to only allow access to certain family members whom I have picked to view them.
5. Filter what pictures you post: Babies do adorable things all day long, but please do not post pictures of your baby naked. Use common sense. I see these cute pictures that resemble Anne Geddes photographs (my favorite); the naked ones should only be shared with family members.

When used properly, I believe that social media can be a useful device. I believe that when social media like Facebook is used in a positive approach it can be a way to allow family and friends that are close to you but live far away watch your child grow. Who doesn’t like positive comments, like “such a happy baby” on their pictures? It’s a sense of pride and an encouragement boost. Social media is also a nice way to provide a structural support group that parents are in need of. Parenting is a tough job, we need all the support that we can get.

As my child continues to grow I am going to carry and share her milestones online, but I am going to do so with more discretion, thinking twice before posting that adorable picture.

Mom 2 Mom Sales {In + Around Detroit} – March 2016

By

aubreymoon

-

March 11, 2016

Strollers: Ok after 10AM

Cost: $1 Early Bird/$2

Training & Treatment Innovations

Location: 1450 S. Lapeer Rd., Oxford (South of Drahner)

Location: 90 Millville Rd., Lapeer

Time: 9AM – 1PM (8:30AM Early Bird)

Strollers: Yes!

Cost: $1 Early Bird/$2

Sunday, March 20

Jewish Community Center

Location: 6600 W. Maple, West Bloomfield (At Drake Rd.)

Time: 9AM – 1PM

Strollers: Yes!

Cost: $2

Friday, March 25

Gibraltar Trade Center

Location: 237 North River Road, Mt. Clemens

Time: 10AM – 6PM

Strollers: Yes!

Cost: $2/car

Saturday, March 26

City of Pleasant Ridge

Location: 4 Ridge Rd., Pleasant Ridge (At Woodward & I-696)

Time: 9AM – 12PM (8:30AM Early Bird)

Strollers: Capped at 32

Cost:$1 Early Bird/$2

Gibraltar Trade Center

Location: 237 North River Road, Mt. Clemens

Time: 10AM – 6PM

Strollers: Yes!

Cost: $2/car

Detroit Foodie Brunch Spot Bucket List

By

Erica B

-

March 9, 2016

There is something about eating breakfast foods at all the wrong times that is just so good.

Below is a list of some of the most amazing savory and sweet brunch locations around town!

Bobcat Bonnie’s – Detroit
Captain Crunch French toast AND a build your own mimosa or Bloody Mary bar. How could you not?

Breakfast Club – Madison Heights
Tucked into a cute cottage style building, be ready for amazing baked French toast and Eggs Benedict, and the check is served with chocolate covered strawberries.

Brooklyn Street Local – Detroit
This Corktown favorite serves up their signature Hangover Special, magical pancake creations, and poutine. Get a taste of Canada without having to cross the bridge or the tunnel!

Cafe Zola – Ann Arbor
Phenomenal sweet & savory crepes are the specialty here, but the entire brunch menu is fantastic!

Camp Ticonderoga – Troy
A family friendly Sunday brunch made from scratch with an emphasis on quality ingredients.

Chocolate Gallery Cafe – Warren
If you’re looking to indulge, this is the place for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, Thursday through Sunday. Lemon ricotta pancakes are a fan favorite!

Cliff Bell’s – Detroit
Take in the beauty of the surroundings, and listen to live jazz while you nosh on chicken & waffles and wash it down with bottomless mimosas

Dime Store – Detroit
Everything made from scratch and a full bar have led many to call Dime Store the best brunch in Detroit – go see for yourself!

Fishbone’s Rhythm Cafe
Detroit, Saint Clair Shores & Southfield
Because sometimes you want a side of sushi with your eggs, and why shouldn’t you have it?

Gold Cash Gold – Detroit
Farm-to-table freshness, and the undeniable combination of pickle brined fried chicken & waffles is just the beginning of the amazing brunch experience at GCG.

Grand Tavern – Rochester Hills
The brunch buffet here is unbeatable – a flat price and get a taste of everything!

Hudson Cafe – Detroit
Brunch is what the Hudson Cafe is known for and there’s a good reason for it! Fresh squeezed OJ, a phenomenal coffee bar, and the best omelet you’ve ever had can all be found inside.

J Baldwins – Clinton Township
Sunday brunch at J Baldwins ranges from classic fare to breakfast pizza. You pretty much can’t go wrong!

Johnny Cakes – Troy
While the names screams pancakes (and they are great!), the egg specialties are also worth the wait.

La Dolce Vita – Detroit
This well hidden gem serves up some of the best brunch with class and style!

La Dulce – Royal Oak
Sunday only, this new tapas spot offers Spanish inspired brunch options.

Le Andos Cafe – Macomb Township
The menu is a never ending list that will make your mouth water and stomach rumble. Bonus: if you want to enjoy it in the comfort of your own home, they deliver or offer online ordering for pickup as well!

Marais – Grosse Pointe
Upscale brunch dining is offered one Sunday a month. Call for dates and reservations.

Pancake Factory – Shelby Township
This family owned and kid-friendly restaurant has a huge menu of breakfast and lunch favorites, and as the name says, specializes in pancakes of all varieties!

Parks & Rec Diner – Detroit
Farm fresh local foods made into the best breakfast ever – lamb bacon, amazing baked goods, and boozy milkshakes are just a few of the amazing things that await you here!

Recipes – Farmington Hills & Troy
Renown both locally and nationwide for their amazing breakfast

Rochester Brunch House – Rochester
Super fresh ingredients and menu pricing that break your budget make this brunch restaurant a fan favorite!

Rose’s Fine Food – Detroit
Come for the food and the ethics – Rose’s serves fantastic farm fresh, made from scratch deliciousness and also pays their staff a living wage. They do accept tips, but they are split by the entire staff and a portion is donated each month to a charity of the staff’s choosing.

Selden Standard – Detroit
Brunch is served on weekends only, and the menu is seasonal, including both sweet and savory options as well as a selection of craft cocktails.

Seva – Detroit & Ann Arbor
Brunch isn’t just for omnivores. The vegan and vegetarian dishes here will amaze even the most carnivorous of breakfast food lovers.

The Daily Dinette – Ferndale
Open 24 hours, and keeping the menu simple with breakfast sandwiches, burgers, fries, tater balls, and the most amazing freshly made donuts you’ve ever had!

The Fly Trap – Ferndale
The full menu is available all day, so whether you’re hungry for breakfast at dinner time or dinner at breakfast time, you can have it here and wash it down with a drink from the full bar.

The Grand Diner – Novi
Family owned and kid friendly, the Grand Din
er is also dedicated to serving the freshest food around.

The Jagged Fork – Grosse Pointe
Owned by the same people who made Hudson Cafe a Detroit staple, this breakfast and lunch location doesn’t disappoint with a huge menu of delicious options. Expect to wait, even during the week, but know that it will be well worth it!

The Original Pancake House
Bay Harbor, Birmingham, Grosse Pointe, & Southfield
It may be a chain, but the food is amazing! You haven’t lived until you’ve shared a Big Apple!

The Pantry
Sterling Heights, Warren, & Washington Township
Expect a wait, especially on the weekends, but these family owned restaurants are totally worth it!

Thomas’s – Livonia
This kid friendly family restaurant has great food AND prices!

Three Blind Mice – Mt. Clemens
If you need a little “hair of the dog” come here for the brunch AND Bloody Mary buffets!

Toast – Birmingham & Ferndale
Friendly service, strong coffee, cocktails, and a wicked good brunch menu make Toast is a must try!

Uptown Grill – Commerce
A warm and friendly brunch stop during the day, and a busy bar & grille by night!

Vivio’s – Detroit
This Eastern Market legend has been serving up breakfast and Bloody Mary’s for years. The menu isn’t fancy, but the food and drinks are simply amazing!

Do YOU have a favorite brunch spot? Share it with us!

Family Vacations: The Dark Side

By

Kim C.

-

March 8, 2016

The warm Florida sun sparkles across the water and my happy family plays on the beach building sand castles and running in and out of the surf. We spend our mid-winter break laughing, playing, swimming and happily applying sunscreen. We go to an amusement park and gape at the wonders we see; smiles abound. My daughter rides atop my husband’s shoulders pointing out all the amazing sights with an ice cream cone dripping on his shoulder. Perfection.

Reality: We just paid $45 for 3 not so great cheeseburgers, my face is sunburned and my back hurts from the weight of my bag, my husband is irritated with the crowds and my toddler is too tired and too hot to care about the Sesame Street characters dancing around for her amusement. There is sand in places I won’t find for days and if one more sea gull dive bombs me for my Pringles at the beach, I’m going to snap.

How did it come to this? I had such high hopes for this family vacation. The problem: it’s doesn’t feel like a vacation for me when I am shopping, packing, making arrangements for the dog, printing out itineraries, confirming rooms, renting cars, applying and reapplying the sunscreen, enforcing some sort of bedtime before midnight and remembering the princess necklace everywhere we go. I’m carrying the camera, the extra underpants, the said sunscreen, the tickets, the keys, the souvenirs, all the sunglasses and the snacks. God forbid we forget the snacks!
It was a great vacation in the eyes of my husband and my daughter who actually did play in the surf and ride on shoulders during the trip. I know – I asked them. I can’t completely complain either, I spent a week in the Florida sunshine, visited my parents, laid on a beach, ate like a queen and made some wonderful memories with my family. I think I will just remember it a tad differently. Through the eyes of somewhat jaded expectations and dare I say it… a touch of resentment. I mean, I was really excited for that Sesame Street show!

Yes, I resented it. Whaaaaat? I said it. I planned this trip as surprise for the family so everything leading up to the trip is my own doing. Still, I hoped that upon landing in Florida it would be this magical experience that would leave us all endlessly happy and refreshed. Instead, my resentment continued, even grew.

After I planned this fabulous trip, I got no help. No Glory. No thanks. These ingrates just expected me to keep on giving. Of course I did, because it’s what we do as moms.

Moms remember the special toys that we need to sleep and that sunscreen is not a one-time application. We know that beach toys mean everything and medicine has to be taken even on vacation. We remember that milk gives us my troubles on a long car ride, and that too much sun gives dad a headache so we need aspirin and sunglasses. We take care of it all.

That’s the dark side of family vacations no one tells you before you have a family. It’s mostly work. Work in a new place with a new view; work with a beautiful view but still work nonetheless. And it’s a thankless job. All those happy smiling faces in photos are the culmination of hours of effort, laundry, lists, lost sleep and blood and sweat. But I see them smile, the loves of my life are happy, so I smile.

I guess in the end it’s that we got to that smiling shining moment that matters. Through the years the work and the bickering and irritation will be forgotten. I will look back at that picture and say ‘what a great day it was!’ because that is what memories do over time: fade the bad. I will laughingly remember the tantrum we paid a ridiculous amount of money to witness. I will longingly wish for the ice cream stain again just to see her riding on my husband’s shoulders and both of them smiling. See, I’m nostalgic already.

It’s probably best that they don’t know all that goes into it. It wouldn’t be as much fun for them if they knew. I’ll plan another vacation because I’m a glutton for punishment who loves to travel. I’ll keep it my secret because one day she will have a family of her own and she’ll look back and say, “Thanks Mom. I see it now.” She will, right?

In the meantime… to my mom….THANK YOU! I see all your work now. I hope you had some fun along the way too!

10 Reasons Why Every Woman Loves Target

By

aubreymoon

-

March 8, 2016

Disclaimer: This post is not sponsored by Target but if you work for Target and want to sponsor any future posts, let’s talk!

You do not need to be a mom to read and agree with this post. Did you know there are more than 30 Target stores throughout Metro Detroit? While chances are you’ve found your favorite store(s) and visit certain ones for different things, one thing ~~most~~ ALL women can agree on– we love Target. There’s something for everyone in this big box store.

Here are my Top Ten Reasons Why Every Woman Loves Target:

Cartwheel, Red Card & Other Deals

Everyone loves a good deal. And you have to love a place that provides an app in which you can keep track of all of the deals you want to grab. Target’s Cartwheel app is simple. You browse according to the offer category {IE Baby, Food, Health, Home, etc.} and “add item” to your cartwheel. While you are limited on the number of deals you can hold at once, if you aren’t going to use an offer for one particular shopping trip, remove and replace it with one that you are. You can also scan product barcodes to see if the items in your shopping cart are on sale.

If you don’t have the Red Card, you need to get one. It’s an automatic 5% savings every trip on top of Cartwheel and other coupons. You can link it to your checking account if you don’t want to worry about having another credit card to pay, too.

Did you know that if you bring a reusable bag for your purchases you receive 5 cents off for each bag you use? Sure, it may not seem like a huge savings but every penny counts– plus you’re doing something nice for the environment.
The Dollar Spot

The people whose job it is to create every store’s layout are no fools. What’s the first thing you see when you walk thru the doors and grab your cart? The Dollar Spot, of course. Sure, you don’t need anything but it doesn’t hurt to browse. I’m not ashamed to admit that {on occasion} I let my son browse, too, and if he’s a good boy for our entire trip, he can pick one thing out of this section to purchase. It sure beats spending $$ in the toy aisle.

The Dollar Spot is constantly changing– usually with seasons or holidays– and is a great place to pick up cute decorative items, party accessories, gift wrapping and of course a new iPhone case and/or charger. It’s also perfect for stocking stuffers, Easter baskets and Valentine’s Day bags. {Note: not all items in The Dollar Spot are $1… they’ll get you here!} Don’t forget to check the end caps for extra savings under the Clearance baskets!
Designer Threads

Need a new bathing suit or maybe a cute top for your date night on Saturday? Target offers some excellent-quality clothes at affordable prices. They also carry many designer brands for less: Lilly Pulitzer, Mossimo, and Liz Lange Maternity to name a few. Rather than heading to department stores, I often find myself at Target browsing through the countless racks of cute clothes. Because of the great Cartwheel deals {see reason #1}, I can often find additional discounts on Target-exclusive brands or seasonal goods {anyone else need a bathing suit for Spring Break?!}.

Additionally, the maternity section at Target is fantastic. They’ve got anything from workout gear, work attire, dresses {and maxis for summer!} for weddings or more formal events and so many great graphic tees.
Starbucks

Leggings, top knots & coffee: three mom essentials {that you can get at Target!}. Some friends have a ritual to stop by the Starbucks before even heading in for their shopping, some stop on their way out. Either way, having a Starbucks inside Target is one of the most amazing things for moms anywhere. Another great feature- the ability to order your drink and pay for it ahead of time so you don’t have to wait in line with a fussy toddler that is grabbing at any/all things within an arm’s reach.
Home Decor for Any Style

It doesn’t matter if I’m checking out the newest throw pillows or wall art, Target’s Home section always sucks me in for something I don’t necessarily need. Their plethora of candles is a favorite of my son’s {he’ll take a quick sniff and tell me he doesn’t like that one, repeated about 14 times before we stroll away from that aisle} and I tend to get lost in them as well. Target is no HomeGoods when it comes to knick-knacks that I don’t need, but it’s definitely giving HG a run for it’s money.
Full Grocery Store

I’ve started to take advantage of the grocery aisles of Target recently. With one less than a mile from my driveway, it’s an easy choice when I need just a gallon of milk and don’t have to fight the crowds at the large grocery chains in the area. Although there are no fresh meat, seafood or bakery counters, Target offers all of your grocery list needs. Looking for bananas? Target has them. What about a bottle of wine for the house-warming party you’re off to tonight? Yep, they have alcohol, too! Don’t forget to hit the candy aisle while you’re there… a family favorite in the Moon household!

Another great tip is to shop Target’s Market Pantry line for quality items at a lower cost {and usually greater deals through Cartwheel}. They carry anything from frozen foods & ice cream to dairy, packaged meat, snacks and baking supplies, and are usually significantly cheaper than the mainstream brands.
Holiday Needs for Every Season

My secret to adding to my holiday decor collection is to shop at Target once the holiday has passed, meaning, after Christmas I hit up Target for the discounted wreaths, rugs, and tree decorations that I’ve been eyeing all season. Most decor/candy/etc. goes on clearance after the big day, but don’t wait too long because other vultures like myself will snag all of the amazing deals.
Hair & Beauty Trends

Usually my trips to Target are initially for hairspray, makeup remover cloths or cotton balls and I usually end up getting much more than those items. Target’s hair & beauty section, the Up & Up brand in particular, is a great spot for bathroom necessities and are usually discounted even further via Cartwheel. They carry well-known brands like Chi, Con-Air and Sonia Kashuk, as well as Burt’s Bee’s, e.l.f., ESSIE and O.P.I.
Great Baby & Kids Section

After hitting up The Dollar Spot and ladies’ department, I usually cart my way over to the baby/kids section where I head directly to the clearance racks to see if there’s anything I need {for next season in a larger size}. You can usually find some great deals on clothes, accessories and even outerwear. Last year I snagged an Eddie Bauer winter coat for just $14!

Something that Target does {that I wish more stores did} is offer $20 store gift cards when you purchase two or three boxes of diapers. If you don’t already buy them in bulk or have a service that automatically delivers diapers/wipes to you every month, this is a great deal that they usually rotate between brands every few weeks. When you do the math, the price ends up being close to those bulk purchases and now you’ve got money to spend on something else {you probably don’t need} at Target!

Just like the grocery offerings {see reason #6}, Target has a great variety of baby/toddler food from purees to finger foods and snacks directly across from utensils, plates, bowls and cups you’ll eventually need to restock.
Clean, Bright Experience

There is nothing worse than walking into a store that is dirty, disorganized or dark. Thankfully, Target is none of these. With the modern upgrades to most of the local stores in Metro Detroit, Target provides a clean, bright and generally welcoming shopping environment. The carts never seem to have trash hidden in the corners and the buckles are usually in good condition. The Target team members can often be found walking around the store in their signature red shirts and khaki pants offering help wherever I go.

Maybe I’ve brainwashed my son, but anytime I ask him if he wants to go to Target his face lights up and he grabs his coat to walk out the door. Target truly is the perfect spot for women to shop.

Do you love Target as much as I do or is there another store I should check out in Metro Detroit? Share your comments below!

The Renewing Aura of Springtime: Finding Balance

By

annacenti

-

March 6, 2016

DON’T JUST STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES… BREATHE IN DEEPLY AND LET IT LINGER…

Girls2015 — Meet Sugar and “a lotta spice”

As the bright lights of the holidays dim and the cold that chills your bones seems to wear out its welcome really fast, we start to think of new beginnings, look forward to the new year ahead and the renewing aura of springtime. This fresh start – this rebirth has me thinking and reflecting on the last year and how BALANCE has become a big player in my list of priorities. A work in progress, but a priority nonetheless – this sense of balance has given me a renewed sense of peace, of calm – of connection with myself and what MATTERS MOST. The little tweaks, the determination to proactively seek TIME – and to seek it often. Simply put, it matters more HOW you are than who you are and what you are…it’s that effort to be PRESENT, to be CONNECTED.

Indulge me for a moment…let’s return to the summer of 2014…

Ahh summer…time for fun, family, and festivities! Teachers look forward to this time of year as time for relaxation, renewal – a time to recharge and soak up time with family and friends. This summer was going to be different. The lists of outings and fun activities ran through my mind like the ticker at the bottom of a news station on television – never ceasing and always inundating me with new information, new ideas, new ways to use up every single second of summer with moments to be remembered. So desperate to soak up all the time I had with my family, to savor all those moments before it was time to return to work in the fall.

Funny, this word TIME. It can mean so many things – but to teachers, especially those who are parents, it takes on an entirely different meaning – which I personally felt for the first time during the fall of 2014. Backtrack to August 2014. The excitement beamed on my daughter’s face; she was finally a big girl and would be attending Kindergarten in a few weeks. I recall the giddiness and the back-to-school sales, the backpack selection, and of course, the outfit choice. Amidst all the anticipation, I found myself struck with the sting of letting go. Even worse, I realized I wouldn’t be able to drop her off, to see her off to the first day of her tomorrow. Immediately, the guilt set in, the sadness I desperately hid from her – as not to ruin her joy and exuberance. I maintained my smile despite the devastating blow of not being able to be there. Inside, my heart was shattered. I never thought this would be me. This milestone had come and I wouldn’t be there, couldn’t be there.

This is not something that crossed my mind beforehand. I always thought I would be there. The intense desire to be there to send her off and the inability to do so created an inner struggle I wasn’t prepared to absorb. My love for teaching long preceded having my own family. I never thought about the sacrifices: juggling the responsibilities of my own work, after school commitments, and pursuing graduate work required for my position. I began to feel the guilt increase as the school year went on. I was leaving when it was dark and coming home when it was dark – especially in the cold winter months. I felt this tug-of-war inside between my family and my work. How could I not give 150% to both? When you do anything where your heart is invested, it’s just not possible, right?

Being a parent is one of the most rewarding jobs out there, but is likewise one of the toughest. Being the parent none of the moms recognize on the last day of school picnic brings the guilt factor to a whole new level. It wasn’t that I didn’t want to be the room mom or the mom who chaperoned on field trips, but my schedule never seemed to allow it. My daughter’s first day was my first day so there was no flexibility. Seeing her little face beam with excitement at that end of the year picnic because Mommy was there struck a chord – and boy did that chord resonate.

What I didn’t realize was that I was not only burning the proverbial candle at both ends, but I was not taking care of myself. My mother kept telling me to find balance or I would be “no good to anything or anyone.”

The struggle is real for educators today – especially those with families. We love what we do, love our students like our own children, but it can be stressful on a good day.

My mother’s words still echo in my mind: I had to do something to bring balance back into my life – for me, for my children, for my family in general.

So I resolved to CHANGE. Small changes. One day at a time. I promised myself to put work away at a certain time of night and snuggle my kids. I promised to watch that stupid show and laugh with my husband. I promised to take a walk, cook something new, but most importantly – to BREATHE.

I promised to breathe deeply when the stress got to be too much, to breathe in every second of every day with my kids and husband, to breathe in life – because we are all living on borrowed time. Life is short and it should be beautiful, happy, and savored.

All the flavors of life should be present on our palate – tangible, defined. At school, I promised to laugh with the kids to ease their stress. I was always a support, always invested in all my choices and all my plans, but sometimes you need to just let loose. It keeps you sane. We ALL NEED to laugh.

Fast forward a few months. As the year started to wind down and my coursework neared the end, I felt a sense of relief – that a break was approaching. Brewing in the back of my mind was also the potential to try something new – something outside my comfort zone – something for myself. Now I know what you’re thinking…”you’re going to add something else to your already full plate? Are you crazy, lady?”. I had reached out to my friend Sarah a few months prior after watching her enthusiastic posts about a new business venture in which she had become involved. For the first time in a long time, my heart said, “go for it, go for it now, go for it 150%, and don’t look back.”

May of 2015 – I attended an event and I haven’t looked back. I went for a goal and within my first month of business, I received a promotion. With humility and excitement, I read the post about my success and beamed inside and out. The best part is that my daughters can see that you can be a great mother and serve this world with passion and conviction both personally and professionally. I look forward to the days ahead not with naiveté that rainy days don’t exist – but that I have learned to dance on those days and all days. Meanwhile, I received a promotion within the first month and a half of business and another within the next few months and my business is growing every day. The best part is that I get to spread positivity and empowerment to others. Who knew that something that flows naturally into my classroom could fuel a passion outside of it as well? This only further proves that life may not take you in the direction you think, but maybe in one that is that much better.

It is imperative to remind yourself each night that you did enough, gave enough, and you are enough. Sometimes in our pursuits to help others, we get a little lost ourselves. It is not only good, but necessary to love yourself too.

Most importantly, let your WHY drive EVERYTHING you do and HOW you do it. Happiness lies in those moments of pure, unadulterated spontaneity, uncontrollable laughter and when you take those DEEP breaths of life and of living.

So my message for you is to breathe in all the happiness you can find – and if you’re not happy or you’re going through a struggle – know that life is a circle.

Tomorrow offers promise, but remember to enjoy today too. Breathe in love and spread joy. Be kind and kick ass because YOU CAN! My mission in life hasn’t changed, but the vision of how to get there and the willful enjoyment of the journey – bumps and all – has changed for the better.

So This Is Forty?

By

Mary

-

March 3, 2016

In some ways it feels as if it hits you like a ton of bricks. In other ways it feels as if the best is yet to come. I’ll be honest in saying that I don’t fear turning forty like some of my friends, but it may be because I have some good role models. Having a mom and sisters who only seem to get better with age, I use that as my motivation. To me I say ‘bring it on’ as I quickly approach this milestone, but I know not everybody shares that sentiment.

What is it about forty that just sounds so significant? I do think that you tend to learn more about yourself as you reach this age. It may sound cliché, but you tend to finally feel comfortable in your own skin. You’ve lived a little, gained some experience, hopefully turned away the unnecessary drama, and you can finally settle into who you are and what makes you unique. Not to say that you don’t have moments of insecurity, but you have actually accomplished something and gained some experience by this point in your life.

I have noticed a few things as the “Big 4-0” comes speeding at me—and I reflect upon these things anytime I do feel older. Sure I may have a few more aches and pains, but I’m also at a point in my life where I know what’s really important.

So what can you expect as you head towards your 40th birthday? Here are a few observations that can give you something to look forward to:

You Know Who Your Real Friends Are
I have friends from my childhood and friends that I have made as my kids entered school. I will tell you that you quickly come to appreciate who your real friends are. They may be different levels of friendship, but you know who you want to surround yourself with. This may mean that you’ve changed things up, but at the end of the day you are happy to have even a few close friends.

You Tend To Be Much More Confident and Comfortable With Who You Are
Sure you have the moments of wishing for a different body shape or struggling with your hair, but you are also much more comfortable in your own skin. You are in tune with who you are, and with that comes a great sense of confidence. You may not love everything about yourself, but you are certainly much happier with it than you ever used to be.

You Are No Longer Interested In The Unnecessary Drama
Not that drama was ever a good thing, but you care far less about it than you ever did. You recognize that there are people in life who thrive off of drama—and you want to distance yourself from them as much as possible. You are no longer interested in getting sucked into it. You have much more important things to worry about, and they don’t include unnecessary drama.

You Have a True Sense of What’s Really Important
You appreciate your family more and want to spend time with them. You come to really enjoy a simple night out with your friends. You realize that it’s not always about having more, but actually appreciating what you do have. You live your life for you and that’s a really refreshing and wonderful thing!

I embrace it—bring on 40! I have my moments and I may never be 100% happy with how I look, but I do feel much more confident at this point in my life. I have an amazing family and some pretty great things to be thankful for, and truly that’s what matters.

So before you go worrying about how old forty sounds, recognize that along with it can come some great revelations. I certainly have things that I want to accomplish and it may take me longer to recover after an injury or a late night out—but I’m also much happier with who I am and that’s pretty wonderful!

Are you facing a similar milestone in your life? Share your revelations with us!

I Would Rather Be the Dad

By

Detroit Mom

-

March 2, 2016

I am sitting on the living room floor being climbed on by my one year old daughter. I am a jungle gym. This is my life now, I am furniture. Don’t get me wrong, I love being a parent, but right now I think I’d rather be the dad.

I am OK with the feeding and the changing, you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do, right? But I find cuddling boring sometimes, and I kind of hate playing with babies (and yes, I do feel guilty saying that).

For the first few months of motherhood, I was too tired to imagine going back to work. By six months, I figured my baby was tough enough to spend some time outside of my presence. Then, suddenly my job satisfaction plummeted, I was over it.

I do not like being a Stay-at-Home mom. I want a sibling for my baby, but the idea of doing this again is making me second guess my desire.

When people learn that I stay at home, they usually say, “you are so lucky to be able to stay at home!” But what they don’t realize is that it’s not a choice for me. I think there are two camps of SAHM. Those who can afford to, and those who can’t afford not to.

A big part of my job is budgeting and purchasing. I work hard to make our books balance and we do find fun with a little creativity, low standards and a good sense of humor. I am not complaining about money. I just wish I was the one who got to leave the house.

Most days I feel like I am invisible to the rest of the world (especially during the winter when we are inside all day.) I try to get out of the house at least once a day– even a smile to the greeter at the grocery store gives me a boost to keep my spirits up. But, as a Have-to-Be SAHM, I can’t afford to do a lot of the things that would keep us entertained. I do visit with other moms, but I feel like I can’t be too clingy, and rely on any one person to fix my unhappiness.

I guess you could say I am jealous…

When my husband cooks dinner or goes to switch over the laundry, our baby does not crawl after him whining to be picked up. When he wants to read a book, he reads a book.
Not only does she not care as much about Dad’s attention, but he does not care as much about her whining noises. How is it that Dad can hear annoyance in a baby’s voice and say, “honey bear…” absently toward the infant, while it grates at my very soul?
While dad is at work interacting with people, I am at home, just thinking of my friends and family, and wondering why they never text me.
When dad gets home, he gets to be the good guy. He has the energy and excitement to play and make our baby really laugh. I feel like a bad mom as I slink back to our bedroom for a few uninterrupted minutes on my phone.

One time a grandmother told me, “you’ll never regret staying home with your kids.” I know for sure that I will never regret having my daughter. She has made my heart grow in a million ways, and our decision to have a child was definitely the right one. I have more self-love, I feel more connected to God, and I am more understanding of others, and have a more complex, yet wonderful relationship with my spouse.

I don’t regret having a baby, but right now, I wish I was the dad in this relationship.

Detroit Easter Egg Hunts

Oakland County

Friday, March 18th

Saturday, March 19th

Sunday, March 20th

Thursday, March 24th

Friday, March 25th

Saturday, March 26th

Wayne County

Saturday, March 19th

Tuesday, March 22nd

Wednesday, March 23rd

Saturday, March 26th

Macomb County

Saturday, March 19th

Sunday, March 20th

Saturday, March 26th

Washtenaw County

Sunday, March 20th

Saturday, March 26th

Saturday, March 12

Allen Park PTA/PTSA Council

Amanda Moore PTO

Cheyenne Elementary

Creative Learning Campus @ Community Lutheran Church

Farrell Emmett Elementary School

Hillside Elementary

Huron Valley Parents of Multiples @ Woodland Meadows Elementary

Lakeview High School Class of ’18

MOPS @ Immanuel Lutheran Church

New Life Christian Academy

NWS Mothers of Multiples @ St. Matthews

Ojibwa Elementary PTO

Saline Parks & Rec

Sequoyah Elementary School

Shepherd of the Lakes Lutheran Church

St. Paul Lutheran School

St. Thecla

Switzer Elementary

Training & Treatment Innovations

Saturday, March 19

Addams Elementary PTA

Groves High School DECA

Lake Orion Community Ed

L’Anse Creuse Foundation

Mohawk Elementary PTA

MOPS & MOMS Next at Trinity UMC

North Street UMC Woman’s Life Club 702

Rochester Hills Christian School

St. Joan of Arc PTG

St. Paul Lutheran School

Sunday, March 20

Jewish Community Center

Friday, March 25

Gibraltar Trade Center

Saturday, March 26

City of Pleasant Ridge

Gibraltar Trade Center

Cartwheel, Red Card & Other Deals

The Dollar Spot

Designer Threads

Starbucks

Home Decor for Any Style

Full Grocery Store

Holiday Needs for Every Season

Hair & Beauty Trends

Great Baby & Kids Section

Clean, Bright Experience

In + Around Detroit