Mom 2 Mom Sales {October 11th}

October 8, 2014

Here at Detroit Moms Blog we have had great successes when looking for money saving deals on used kids clothing, books and toys at Mom2Mom Sales. Tell us Metro-Detroit Mom’s what have your experiences been at our local Mom2Mom Sales?! Comment below, we would LOVE to hear from you!

Birmingham YMCA

Strollers Allowed
45 Tables
No Early Bird!!!

{Time}
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

{Cost}
General – $2

{Location}
400 E Lincoln
W of Woodward/N of 14 Mile

Birmingham

*

Cherokee Elementary PTO

Strollers Allowed
115 tables

{Time}
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

{Early Bird}
8:30 a.m.

{Cost}
EB – $2
General – $1

{Location}
42900 Rivergate
S of Hall/E of Romeo Plank

Clinton Twp

*

House of Prayer & Praise Ministries

Strollers After 11
35 tables
No Early Bird!!!

NEW!!!

{Time}
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

{Cost}
General – $1

{Location}
16520 Wyoming
At 6 Mile & Puritan

Detroit

*

GOMOMS at {Lake Orion High School}

Strollers Allowed
Dept. Store Style

{Time}
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

{Early Bird}
8:30 a.m.

{Location}
495 E Scripps
N on Lapeer (M24)/Off of I-75

Lake Orion

*

Christ Lutheran School

Strollers Allowed
25 tables

{Time}
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

{Early Bird}
8:30 a.m.

{Cost}
EB – $2
General – $1

{Location}
620 General Motors Rd
At Milford Rd

Milford

*

Training & Treatment Innovations, Inc

Strollers After 11

{Time}
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

{Early Bird}
8:30 a.m.

{Cost}
EB – $2
General – $1

{Location}
1450 S Lapeer Rd
S of Drahner

Oxford

*

St. Valentine PTA

Strollers Allowed
50 tables

{Time}
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

{Early Bird}
9 a.m.

{Cost}
EB – $2
General – $1

{Location}
25875 Hope
At 5 Mile & Beech Daly

Redford

*

Addams Elementary PTA

Strollers After 10
90 Tables
Sold Out!!!
No Early Bird!!!

{Time}
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

{Cost}
General – $1

{Location}
2222 W Webster
E of Woodward/S of 13 Mile

Royal Oak

*

South Lyon MOMS at {UMC}

NO Allowed
Dept. Store Style
No Early Bird!!!

{Time}
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

{Cost}
General – $1

{Location}
640 S Lafayette
Off Pontiac Trail/S of 10 Mile

South Lyon

*

Havel Volunteer League

Strollers Allowed
83 Tables
No Early Bird!!!

{Time}
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

{Cost}
General – $1

{Location}
41855 Schoenherr
S of 19 Mile

Sterling Heights

*

Weekend Happenings :: In + Around Detroit {October 10-12}

Annette

October 8, 2014

The fall is jam packed with things to do around metro-detroit. The hard part is finding the time to break away from the things you “think” you have to do and actually spend that special time creating new memories with the ones you love most. We hope you find that perfect blend of autumn delight this weekend. The thought of comfy clothes, warmth from the sun, campfires, pumpkins, apples, hot drinks, and fresh air does certainly make this mamma happy. enjoy!

Hallowe’en in Greenfield Village

Enjoy their historically themed Hallowe’en event. Follow a mile-long curving path illuminated by the flickering light of hand carved jack-o’-lanterns and meet classic costumed characters along the way.

{Date}
October 10-12, 17-19 and 24-26, 2014

{Time}
6:30-9 pm Fridays + Saturdays
6:30-8 pm Sundays

{Cost}
Purchase Tickets Online {download coupon for $2 off}

{Location}
The Henry Ford
20900 Oakwood Blvd.
Dearborn

*

Fall Full Moon Friday Night Hikes at Heritage Park

Are you looking for a little adventure! Enjoy an autumn night as you hike through the park under a full moon. No flashlights are required and the hikes are designed for families with children over 5.

{Date}
October 10, 2014

{Time}
7:30 pm – 8:30 pm

{Cost}
$3
{Arrive early from 5:00 – 7:00 pm and enjoy a fall hayride for $5}

{Location}
Nature Center at Heritage Park
Farmington Hills

*

Pumpkin Fest Haunted Barn Stroll

This haunted stroll is perfect for the kid who loves only a little scare!

{Date}
October 10-12, 18-19, 25-26, 2014

{Time}
noon – 7:30 pm

{Cost}
$1

{Location}
Wilson Barn
Livonia

*

Old Town Lansing Oktoberfest

9^th annual Old Town Oktoberfest, Mid-Michigan’s only German Oktoberfest event. Features German food, live music, dancing and 12 oz souvenir mugs filled with German-Style beer. {21 + both days.}

{Date}
October 10^th and 11^th

{Times}
Friday – 6 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Saturday – 2 p.m. – 11 p.m.

{Cost}
Tickets $20 @ door
$15 in advance
{Buy a ticket on Friday return Saturday for free!}

{Location}
At the Park and Parking Lot on
the corner of Turner St. and Gr. River Ave.
Lansing

*

Pumpkin Fest at Wilson Barn

Pony Rides
Pumpkins
Cider + Donuts
Hayrides

{Date}
September 27 – October 30, 2014

{Time}
Weekdays – 10-7:30 pm
Weekends – 11-7 pm

{Cost}
Fees for some activities

{Location}
Wilson Barn
Livonia

*

Pumpkin Fest Haunted Barn Stroll

This haunted stroll is perfect for the kid who loves only a little scare!

{Date}
October 10-12, 18-19, 25-26, 2014

{Time}
noon – 7:30 pm

{Cost}
$1

{Location}
Wilson Barn
Livonia

*

Farmer Charley’s Kackleberry Farm

Come visit this old-fashioned fall family entertainment venue with events and attractions for the whole family from 2 to 92!

Farm Animals
Corn Mazes
Pumpkin Patch
Farm Bakery :: Cider + Donuts
Hayrides
and much, much more!!!

{Date}
September 12 – November 2, 2014

{Time}
Thursday – 5-10 pm
Friday – 5-11 pm
Saturday – noon-11 pm
Sunday – noon-10 pm

{Cost}
Farm Pass $11
Under 3 FREE

{Location}
6421 North Stoney Creek Rd.
Monroe

*

Fall Fair Artisan Market

Come and enjoy a unique shopping experience offered by the Handcrafters Shows. This artisan market includes 75 artists and craftspeople from around the coutry.

{Date}
October 10-12, 2014

{Time}
Friday 9:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Saturday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

{Cost}
$3
Children 12 and under FREE

{Location}
Northville Community Center
Northville

*

Novi Home Remodeling Show

Find everything you need to remodel and design your home under one roof. Browse exhibits in kitchen and bath interiors, windows and doors, flooring products, furniture, cabinetry and much more!

{Date}
October 10-12, 2014

{Time}
10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

{Cost}
Adult $9
Children 12 and under FREE

{Location}
Suburban Collection Showplace
46100 Grand River Avenue
Novi

*

Fall Harvest Festival

Come visit this old-fashioned fall family entertainment venue with events and attractions for all ages!

Farm Animals
Pumpkin Patch
Farm Bakery :: Cider + Donuts
Hayrides
and much, much more!!!

{Date}
Every Saturday + Sunday in October

{Time}
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

{Cost}
Per person – $9
Under 2 FREE

{Location}
481 Lake George Road
Oxford

*

SHOCK-tober Series at Penn Theatre

Are you looking for a haunted delight at a theater?! Penn Theratre is showing some classic Halloween movies throughout October!

{Date}
Abbott & Costello Meet Dr. Jeckyll and Mr. Hyde {1953}
October 9 @7:30 pm

Ghostbusters {1984}
October 16 @7:00 pm

Young Frankenstein {1974}
October 23 @7:00 pm

Abbott & Costello Meet the Invisible Man {1951}
October 30 @7:00 pm

{Cost}
$3

{Location}
760 Penniman Avenue
Plymouth

*

Stone Wall Pumpkin Festival

Thousands of guests flock to this Museum to take part in pumpkin carving, pumpkin bowling, pioneer homestead and much more! Pumpkins will be lit from 7-9 pm! Be sure to check out all of the scarecrows throughout the city! {they are brought to the museum for this event} Sounds spooktacular!!

{Date}
October 11th

{Time}
10:00 am – 9:00 p.m.

{Cost}
$7 per person and includes pumpkin {ages 2 and up}

{Location}
Rochester Hills Museum
at Van Hoosen Farm
Rochester Hills

*

The Rochester Area Jaycees Annual
Tunnel of Terror

Prepare to experience a voyage of fright and terror at the annual Haunted Tunnel of Terror!

{Date}
Every Saturday + Sunday in October
{Special Event :: Friendly Monster, October 18^th, 4pm-6pm}

{Time}
7:30 – 10:30 p.m.

{Cost}
$15
{Special Event :: Friendly Monster, October 18^th, $2 or 2 NP food items per child, parents FREE}

{Location}
Rochester Municipal Park
Rochester

*

Zoo Boo {Detroit Zoo}

“The Detroit Zoo’s annual “merry-not-scary” Zoo Boo celebration features a festively decorated half-mile trick-or-treat trail through the front of the park. Live, friendly entertainment awaits your costume-clad little ones in the Zoo Boo Revue tent, and they will be delighted to try their luck at the Ghouly Games Tent. Be sure to stop by the Haunted Reptile House and visit the ghosts and goblins that have made the Holden Reptile Conservation Center their home for the holiday season. And don’t miss the Zombie Zone featuring ghostly games and spooky activities sure to send a chill up your spine.”

{Date}
October 10-12, 17-19, 24-26, 2014

{Time}
Friday 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Saturday 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Sunday 5:00 pm– 8:00 p.m.

{Cost}
$8 per person 2 and up
$6 Parking
{Purchase tickets in advance online}

{Location}
The Detroit Zoo
Royal Oak

*

International Festival

Come and enjoy this cultural events celebrating food, customs and crafts from around the world!

{Date}
Friday, October 10 – Sunday, October 12

{Time}
Friday 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Saturday 10:00 am – 7:00 pm
Sunday 11:00 am– 6:00 p.m.

{Cost}
$3 per person or $5 family

{Location}
Southfield Pavilion
Southfield

*

Mastering the Morning Routine {And Keeping Your Sanity Intact}

Mary

October 6, 2014

Do you feel like the morning is the most chaotic time of the day? Does it border on completely insane when you try to trudge through the daily tasks? If you’re already fighting the urge to run back to bed before the sun is fully up, then you may need to master that morning routine. We all go through it and taking back your sanity can be good for you and for the entire family.

The tone that you set with your kids early on in the day can really dictate how everything will go from there on out. So if you’re patient and positive or turn this into a bonding time, then you will both benefit from it. Let’s face it though—with trying to get breakfast on the table, make lunches, get backpacks ready, and everything else you have to do it’s not always easy. I get it, I am just like you and I have had my fair share of madness every single morning. I have found a couple of things that make life easier for all of us though.

Plan Ahead For Everything and It Will Pay Off

First and foremost I think through the tasks the night ahead. It sounds simple enough, right? Yet so few of us actually do this and it can keep the mornings held together nicely. If you know that the kids have school or you have somewhere that you have to be, then by all means lay out everyone’s clothes the night before. Same with backpacks—get all of the homework and other tools put into the backpack so that they literally have to pick it up and go when it’s school time.

Also think through the meals the night before. If you can make a plan for breakfast like cereal, oatmeal, or hard boiled eggs that you can make in advance then it’s a real time saver. Even having the fruits or veggies chopped up and ready to use in smoothies or an omelet can be a great way to stay ahead of the game. Use that same philosophy for making lunches. Put everything into baggies, make the sandwiches, and lay out the snacks so that you literally just throw it into the bag the next morning.

The same sort of mindset works for getting the things done in the morning that need to be handled. Shower the night before, get homework done after school, and even planning out the time you have in the morning will pay off big time. Honestly the less you have to do in the morning the better, so consider what will take the stress out of things and get it done in advance if you can.

A Little Routine Can Go A Long Way

No the kids aren’t robots but if you can try to plot out some sort of morning routine and have things done in advance it will help them to stay calm—you too! You may need to get up a couple of minutes earlier, but it will be an investment into your mental health and well being. Don’t be afraid to try to establish some structure, for even if they fight it at first they will love the idea as time moves on.

So yes we all go a little nutty in the morning when there is so much to do. I’ve been there and I know what it means to feel flustered, out of control, and even chaotic at times. These simple tips can help you to stay calm and focused, and can ensure that your whole family starts off in a relaxed way that will make for a much better day overall.

Tips on Hiring A Nanny {In-Home Childcare}

Erin Piper

October 5, 2014

When I was pregnant, figuring out a good childcare situation was a huge concern of mine. I knew I’d be returning to work part time after my leave was over, but the whole process was pretty overwhelming.

I initially thought we’d try to go the route of an in home daycare, as I liked the idea of a cozy environment, and it seemed a bit more budget friendly than a daycare center. However, each home daycare I called was in the same situation – they didn’t have any infant care availability. Next I tried looking into larger daycare centers, but they all seemed too far or too expensive. I have friends that take their kids to both in home daycare’s, and larger centers and they all love the arrangement they have – it just seemed liked there wasn’t much available nearby, and we didn’t want to “commute” too far if we could help it.

A friend of mine had long told me that I may be surprised to find out that I could probably afford to hire someone to watch Oliver in our home. When I pressed her for more details on her own arrangement, it turned out that she was right.

I placed ads on both Care.com and Craigslist with the basic details of the job. and how much I was able to spend. Between the responses I received, I decided to interview three candidates. One was a clear no. It was possibly the most awkward twenty minutes of my life, and while the “manny,” (male nanny) was very sweet, if Oliver picked up any of his odd phrases or mannerisms, I’d go bananas! The other two were definitely maybes as I felt good about each of them for different reasons, but didn’t pursue one because she had expressed some strong opposing views (without prompting) on parenting choices I had made and I didn’t want to have to regularly defend myself.

Ultimately, I decided to just ask one candidate, Jessica, to come over to meet my husband and Oliver (I conducted initial interviews at a coffee house JUST in case anyone was nuts). Nick liked her, and Oliver was pretty little at the time, but seemed to do just fine with her at their first meeting, despite being over tired. I took this as a good sign, and we hired her. She came over a few times for shorter periods before I went back to work so that she and Oliver could get to know each other, and I’d run out for a short time. Of course, I was still a wreck leaving him the first day back to work, but I felt better knowing that Jessica was more familiar with his routine and that I wasn’t leaving him with a total stranger.

{Pros and Cons}

Jessica has been with our family ever since then, and I’m so thankful for the great arrangement we have. I love the convenience of having someone come to my home – no waking up a sleeping baby, no packing lunches, etc. (Basically, lazy parents will do well with this arrangement!) If we need her to come a little early or stay a little late, Jessica is able to work that out (and we don’t have to pay $1/minute that we are late). And of course, Oliver gets lots of one on one attention from someone who has built a really special relationship with him. He has also managed to go two years without an ear infection, and has been pretty healthy, with the exception of getting pnuemonia last year. This may bite me in the butt later if he has to build up his immunity in school, but for now, I’m glad.

There are a few drawbacks to having your child watched in your own home by one person. If the nanny is sick, you’re using a sick or vacation day. If they are running late, you’re running late (luckily this is rare, but it happens to all of us so we understand!). He also misses out on the benefits that come with learning alongside other kids, but we’re lucky that he gets to see kids at other times throughout the week (Sunday school, a toddler class we take, neighbors, and play dates), so for now, I feel okay about this.

Beyond that, I’m really happy with our situation. Oliver loves Jessica and she’s taught him so much that I wouldn’t have even thought of. It took a little getting used to and swallowing my pride to see that Oliver loved someone else other than mom and dad at such a young age. I also struggled to let go of everything being done exactly my way. Jessica did and still does some things differently with Oliver than we do, but I think it’s probably a good thing that he’s flexible, as long as we are all consistent on the important stuff. I’ll be really sad when the day comes that my kids go to school, as we’ve loved having such a special person taking care of Oliver, and I’m glad that our second baby will also be able to have such a great caregiver.

Beyond what I’ve already said, here are some of my tips on hiring a nanny:

1. Write an accurate and detailed job description when looking for a candidate. If something is really important to you (light housekeeping, that they love dogs, etc.) be up front about it.

2. I recommend Care.com as you can pay to have a background check completed for a reasonable price, and the peace of mind that comes with that is awesome.

3. I didn’t do this and it hasn’t been an issue, but in hindsight, I probably would’ve set up a written agreement. I’d suggest addressing things like vacation time/pay, what to do whether either party is going to be late/sick, etc. It’s always good to over communicate, luckily, we haven’t had any problems.

4. If there ARE any things that your nanny does that differ from what you like, be up front about it and fast. They’re probably not trying to sabotage your parenting skills 😉 just had a different idea about how to go about something. If it’s important to you, the sooner you mention it, the easier the conversation will be.

5. Be prepared to have your feelings hurt (or better yet, get thick skin). I can still remember how horrible it felt Oliver reaching for Jessica when I tried to scoop him up at his birthday party last year – not only did that pierce my heart, but many of my friends and family were there, and I was sure they must all think that I was a terrible mom if my son wanted to be held by Jessica instead of me. In hindsight, I realize this was ridiculous, but I had a good cry about it that night and really over analyzed it! Now, I realize what a positive thing it is that Oliver loves Jessica so much, and that there will be dozens of times in his life where he’ll prefer to escape mom, but it took some getting used to! Keep in mind that if anything, it’s a good reflection on you that you chose someone your child likes so much!

6. Try to show your nanny you appreciate him or her. While we aren’t ever going to make her rich, we try to thank Jessica with cash bonuses a few times a year, including Christmas time. Around her birthday/anniversary of watching Oliver, we got her flowers too. Aside from my husband and I, Oliver spends more time with Jessica than anyone, so it’s important that we show that we appreciate what a great job she’s doing in helping us raise our son.

7. Allow for flexibility when possible. This depends largely on your own work arrangement, but if you’re going to ask your nanny to stay late every now and then, consider trying to let her go early just as often, or asking her in advance if she has any upcoming events where she may need a few hours off. It’s weird to think of myself as any “employer” but I try to treat Jessica as both a member of the family, but also a valued employee.

8. Ask for input when appropriate. Like all parents, there will be some decisions where you don’t want outside input. But in instances where you’re unsure of what to do – ask for their help and input. If you feel comfortable entrusting this person with the care of your child, you probably value their opinion, and they probably have enough familiarity with kids to offer some ideas.

Weekend Happenings :: In + Around Detroit October 3 -5

Annette

October 4, 2014

Scarecrow Festival

A fall festival with fun for the entire family- contests, prizes, games, live music, carnival and more!

{Date}
October 3^rd – October 5^th 2014

{Time}
Friday – 6 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.

Saturday – 10 a.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Sunday -11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

{Cost}
FREE

{Location}
Downtown Trenton
Intersection of West Jefferson and West Road
Trenton

*

Canoeing in Color

Are you looking for an adventure! How about an experience down the Shiawasee River during the fall color season.

{Date}
October 4, 2014

{Time}
Noon
(registration starts at 11 a.m.)

{Cost}
FREE to members
$10 for non members

{Location}
Start : Water Works Park, 690 S. Broad St.,
Holly
End : Strom Park,
Fenton

*

Farmer Charley’s Kackleberry Farm

Come visit this old-fashioned fall family entertainment venue with events and attractions for the whole family from 2 to 92!

Farm Animals
Corn Mazes
Pumpkin Patch
Farm Bakery :: Cider + Donuts
Hayrides

and much, much more!!!

{Date}
September 12 – November 2, 2014

{Time}
Thursday – 5-10 pm
Friday – 5-11 pm
Saturday – noon-11 pm
Sunday – noon-10 pm

{Cost}
Farm Pass $11
Under 3 FREE

{Location}
6421 North Stoney Creek Rd.
Monroe

*

Gridiron Glory: The Best of the Pro Football Hall of Fame

It’s an all-American exhibition from the Pro Football Hall of Fame. For a limited time, hundreds of groundbreaking artifacts from the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The dynasties, the pioneers, the superstars and the legends. At Henry Ford Museum.

{Date}
October 3, 2014 – January 4, 2014

{Time}
During regular museum hours.

{Cost}
FREE with paid museum ticket. Purchase Tickets Online {download coupon for $2 off}

{Location}
The Henry Ford
20900 Oakwood Blvd.
Dearborn

*

Fall Harvest Festival

Come visit this old-fashioned fall family entertainment venue with events and attractions for all ages!

Farm Animals
Pumpkin Patch
Farm Bakery :: Cider + Donuts
Hayrides

and much, much more!!!

{Date}
Every Saturday + Sunday in October

{Time}
10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

{Cost}
Per person – $9
Under 2 FREE

{Location}
481 Lake George Road
Oxford

*

The Rochester Area Jaycees Annual
Tunnel of Terror

Prepare to experience a voyage of fright and terror at the annual Haunted Tunnel of Terror!

{Date}
Every Saturday + Sunday in October
{Special Event :: Friendly Monster, October 18^th, 4pm-6pm}

{Time}
7:30 – 10:30 p.m.

{Cost}
$15
{Special Event :: Friendly Monster, October 18^th, $2 or 2 NP food items per child, parents FREE}

{Location}
Rochester Municipal Park
Rochester

*

Mom 2 Mom Sales for October 4th, 2014

Annette

October 3, 2014

Real Moms at {Calvary Baptist Church}

Strollers Allowed
Dept Store Style
No Early Bird!!!

{Time}
8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m.

{Cost}
FREE

{Location}
43065 Joy Rd
E of Morton Taylor/N of Warren

Canton

*

Creative Learning Campus

Strollers Allowed
40 Tables
No Early Bird!!!

{Time}
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

{Cost}
Canned good or donation

{Location}
23984 Gibraltar
At I-75 & Cahill

Flat Rock

*

New Life Christian Fellowship

Strollers Allowed
60 tables

{Time}
9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

{Early Bird}
8:30 a.m.

{Cost}
EB – $2
General – $1

{Location}
2237 E Reid
At Porter Rd

Grand Blanc

*

St. Paul Parish Mom’s Group

Strollers Allowed
60 tables

{Time}
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

{Early Bird}
8:30 a.m.

{Cost}
EB – $2
General – $1

{Location}
170 Grosse Pointe Blvd
Between Kerby and Fisher

Grosse Pointe Farms

*

Oak Pointe MOPs

Strollers Allowed
85 tables

{Time}
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

{Early Bird}
8:30 a.m.

{Cost}
EB – $2
General – $1

{Location}
50200 W 10 Mile
At Wixom

Novi

*

St. Mary’s School

No Strollers
50 Tables

{Time}
8:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

{Early Bird}
8 a.m.

{Cost}
EB – $2
General – $1

{Location}
32447 Church
N of Huron River/E of Fort

Rockwood

*

Immanuel Lutheran Church

Strollers Allowed
44 tables

{Time}
9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

{Early Bird}
8:30 a.m.

{Cost}
EB – $2
General – $1

{Location}
415 N 9th
At Vine

St. Clair

*

St. Isaac Jogues School

NO Strollers
100 Tables

{Time}
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

{Early Bird}
8:30 a.m.

{Cost}
EB – $2
General – $1

{Location}
21100 Madison
North of 10 Mile/West of Harper

St. Clair Shores

*

Huron Valley Parents of Multiples

Strollers Allowed
Dept Store Style

{Time}
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

{Cost}
General – $2

{Location}
350 Woodland
At E Michigan & N Maple

Saline

*

Beacon Tree Elementary

Strollers after 10
130 Tables
Sold Out!!!

{Time}
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

{Early Bird}
8:30 a.m.

{Location}
55885 Schoenherr
South of 26 Mile

Shelby Township

*

Macomb Community College at {Expo Center}

Strollers Allowed
200 tables

{Time}
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

{Early Bird}
8:30 a.m.

{Cost}
EB – $2
General – $1

{Location}
14500 E 12 Mile
At Hayes

Warren

*

Huron Valley Recreation at {Lakeland High School}

Strollers Allowed
100+ Tables

{Time}
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

{Early Bird}
8 a.m.

{Cost}
EB – $2
General – $1

{Location}
Lakeland High School
1630 BogieLake
South of M59

WhiteLake

A Trip to the Library! {Life of Mom}

Kate Bell

October 1, 2014

Are you like me? Thoughts are fleeting, moments of concentration are scattered and trying to complete something on the to-do list is hard! These little tidbits of something are often interrupted by a little one… Some days this frustrates the living end of me, but other days, I have my head on in a direction that I’m able to appreciate the little moment and THEIR thought, setting my own aside – and then I get the gift of seeing their perspective of what my little one is experiencing.

The other day, I was working on my website updates (www.kmbdetails.com and our launch of the new area in architectural photography), and the little one kept coming to me for something. Not going to lie, I was annoyed. I was anxious to post my site. However, a little something in my mind said “it’s not important to upload this photo NOW – go and see what he needs” – so I went.

He had created a beautiful library, yes a library. Books on shelves he moved and positioned just right, tables for work – with pencils waiting, a magazine area, and even a check out computer – complete with a keyboard and mouse. CREATIVE! Wow. My mind was blown. He even had a library card for me. He made everything himself and was so proud when I checked out a book from HIS own library. He’s not quite 4. I was impressed. He was so pleased.

It took 10 minutes. Best 10 minutes of my day. I challenge you to go and see what your kid has to show,
that item you are working for, it can wait.

I’ve been thinking about his library for a few days now – he’s re-created it in various ways, sometimes including his brother, sometimes his brother taking over the whole thing. It makes me wonder – what do I currently step in on and re-create or do for him that he is so passionate about? Do I squash his opportunity to grow and challenge himself? Do I brush him off too often so I can complete one more item on my to-do list? Is there a way we can both do something together AND get a task done? I like to think that I have gotten better about it, but still, I ask myself ‘can I do better?’ The answer is clear: of course. But I am doing OK too.

I love to offer my kids the opportunity to try before I help (if possible). I struggle with the time that goes into having the project take longer, but also truly appreciate the gift that it gives them by offering the opportunity of working it through on their own. I love to set them up for success without them seeing it as a deliberate move on my side. It’s kind of a game, at least that is how I look at it.

My older son and I don’t see much of each other now that school is in session. I miss him! Last night, I had a whole host of things that ‘needed to be done’ – I caught myself trying to rush him into bed, when I stopped and asked if he would like to help me with the project of getting the dirt ready for new grass seed, surprisingly, he said yes and was out the door ready to help. He helped, he worked HARD, and he talked. He told me about his new friends, his work, his projects, and that he’s also missing his friends from his old school. I was SO thankful I used that moment to ask if my son wanted to help me. We both went to bed happy and today started off so very well.

We’re finding our balance – whether it be in a homemade library or in the dirt in the front yard. Taking that moment to engage and connect with my sons in the midst of a very hectic and crazy life (that’s my label and I probably need to change it!) made this girl a momma to very happy little boys.

Introducing the DMB’s of Kate…

Annette

September 28, 2014

{Down with Detroit}

I love Detroit. It’s part of my story, my roots, me. After traveling to far parts of the world and living in different states, I have a special appreciation for the city that I call home. I am happy to be back in the D, raising my family. I treasure the memories I have in the city, the honor of working for a class act Detroit Architecture firm in my past and the future of taking my son’s to the D, to build their story. Detroit, through its ups and downs, often reflects life – you never know what’s happening next, but you can appreciate the places that are sound and solid and will bring a simple smile to your face. (like riding the people mover with 4 and 7 year old boys, just for the sake of the ride, and of course we went around twice, maybe three times). Or biking along the river front. So many more discoveries to explore.

{My Life}

My husband picked me up at the airport. Yep, that’s where we met! The story is longer than that, but the story began with the American Youth Foundation and Camp Miniwanca on the shores of Lake Michigan. He’s been my balance and my love since we met in 2003 and married in 2005. We had our first son, NJB, in 2007 where I returned to work in the architecture world several months after. It was hard. So hard to leave him at a daycare center, but harder to know that I was missing his precious first year, and beyond! Around 20 months, I was laid off and it was such a blessing. When NJB was a baby, I started a little business and with the layoff, I was able to focus a little more energy on my creative and photography business (www.kmbdetails.com) and have been busy in many ways ever since. Trying to find balance as a full time wife, mom and creative person is a challenge, but it is working. I love it. I am a planner, meals, grocery shopping, daily chores – they all have a place on the schedule. Eating as clean as possible and healthy is part of our family lifestyle too.

Our youngest son, SJB, joined our family in 2010 and has had us on our toes ever since! With a host of what we try to handle as simple health issues (www.bellyedison.com), we have had many challenges. They could be worse, and we’re fortunate to have found a path that seems to be working. This is what really what keeps me up at night. I have always enjoyed cooking and with his health challenges we were forced to a different lifestyle. It is for the better, we are all healthier for it, and VERY aware of what we choose to put into our bodies and home.

I am privileged to be able to keep my business going to a level I feel confident. I am blessed with two amazing boys who are up for my crazy adventures and plans. My husband truly is a gift to me with his understanding that I am kind of crazy.

{Babies + Beyond}

I have two fantastic boys. They are awesome. Simple as that. NJB, is my super sensitive soul and bursting with energy! His compassion and curiosity of the world and those around is quite eye opening and inspiring. I LOVE seeing how he chooses what he does during the day and learning something new from him. He is passionate in math lessons and anything baseball. My SJB is my energy and calm – if that makes sense! He is the balance our family needed to complete our little pack. He’s a little crazy, like me, and keeps us on our toes! At 9 months, I watched him create a way to climb onto our kitchen counter and place crayons in the toaster (don’t worry, I did watch just to see, no injuries happened and no crayons were melted!) from that moment, we have an extra ear and eye in his direction. He’s the creative artist. The brothers are great friends, most of the time; I’m so proud that they chose to share a room in our new home and I can only hope that they continue this strong friendship long into their years.

Weekend Happenings :: In + Around Detroit September 26-28

Annette

September 27, 2014

Astronomy at the Beach

{Date}

September 26, 2014 – September 27, 2014

{Time}

Saturday + Sunday -6 p.m. to midnight

{Cost}

FREE

{Parking}

Vehicle entry – $7

{Location}

Kensington Metropark
2240 W. Buno Road
Milford

*

South Lyon Area Pumpkinfest

{Date}

September 26, 2014 – September 28, 2014

{Time}

Friday – 7 to 11 p.m.

Saturday – 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Sunday – 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

{Cost}

FREE

{Location}

Downtown South Lyon

*

Annie

{Date}

September 26, 2014 to October 4th

{Times}

September 26th – 1 p.m.

October 1st – 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

October 2nd – 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

October 3rd – 1 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

October 4th – 2 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

{Cost}

Starting at $40

*check website for prices based on seating

{Location}

Fisher Theatre
3011 W. Grand Blvd
Detroit

*

Deneweth’s Fall Fun Fest

{Date}

Saturday/Sunday – September 27th to October 26th

{Time}

Saturdays/Sundays -noon to 5 p.m.

{Cost}

Child -$10

Adult -FREE

{Location}

Deneweth’s Garden Center
16125 22 Mile Road
Macomb Township

*

Diehl’s Ciderfest

{Date}

September 27, 2014 – September 28, 2014

{Times}

Saturday + Sunday – 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

One mile run – 8:30 a.m.

Four mile run – 9 a.m.

{Location}

Diehl’s Orchard and Cider Mill
1479 Ranch Road
Holly

*

Great Lakes Bat Festival

{Date}

September 27, 2014

{Time}

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

{Cost}

FREE

{Location}

Washtenaw Community College
4800 E. Huron River Drive
Ann Arbor

*

Fishing Derby

{Date}

September 27, 2014

{Time}

8 a.m. – 11 a.m.

*Registration begins at 7:30 a.m.

{Cost}

FREE

{Location}

Hines Park
Waterford Bend area
17387 Northville Road
Northville

*

Ice Age Unfrozen

{Date}

September 27, 2014 – January 3, 2015

{Time}

Wednesday through Friday – 9 a.m to 3 p.m.

Saturday – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday – noon to 6 p.m.

{Cost}

Adults – $18

Kids – $15

{Location}

Michigan Science Center
5020 John R St.
Detroit

*

Fall Flavors Weekends

{Date}

September 27, 2014 to September 28, 2014

{Time}

Saturday/Sunday – 9:30 a.m to 5 p.m.

{Cost}

Adults – $24

Children ages 5 to 12 – $17.50

Four and under – FREE

{Location}

Greenfield Village
20900 Oakwood Blvd
Dearborn

*

Native American Heritage Day

{Date}

September 27, 2014

{Time}

1 – 4 p.m.

{Cost}

FREE

{Location}

Nanking Mills Interpretive Center
33175 Ann Arbor Trail
Westland

*

Wilson Barn Pumpkin Fest

{Date}

September 27, 2014 – October 30, 2014

{Time}

Monday through Fridays – 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Saturdays through Sundays – 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

{Cost}

General admission – FREE

Fees for pony rides, hayrides and more. Check out the website for pricing.

{Location}

Wilson Barn
29350 W. Chicago St.
Livonia

*

Joe Cornell’s Event Planning Expo

This expo brings everything you need to know to plan your special event. You are invited to tour the exhibits, sample the wares and speak with over 60 event industry leaders under one roof!

{Date}

September 28, 2014

{Time}

11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

{Cost}

FREE

{Location}

Jewish Community Center

West Bloomfield Township

Introducing the DMBs of Erin…..

Erin Piper

September 24, 2014

Hi! I’m Erin, and I’m really excited to join the team. I’ve been looking for an outlet outside of work where I can flex my skills and sort out some of my thoughts on the crazy roller coaster of parenting, and so I’m excited to share with you all, and learn from the other contributors, as well as our readers. To get started, I’d like to share my “DMBs,” so here’s a little bit more about me!

{Down With Detroit}

I grew up in Allen Park, just ten minutes south of Detroit. Though I don’t live there any more, I’m still pretty protective and defensive of the Downriver community, as I think it was a great place to grow up. My parents took us downtown often enough to develop an appreciation for all of the great things going on in Detroit. We went to family Tigers games, a trip to the theater was a special treat most years, and as we grew older we’d go out to eat in different neighborhoods or tour some of the more historic areas like Indian Village or Corktown on walking tours.

I married a country boy who has totally fallen in love with the city, and now works downtown at a non-profit. He has opened my eyes to some hidden gems, and we try to get downtown as often as we can. As our son has grown, we’ve also taken him downtown with us – the City History Museum, Michigan Science Center, Thanksgiving Parade, and outdoor concerts in Campus Martius have all been big hits with him, and I hope to take him down more as he grows.

{My Life}

As I mentioned, I grew up in Allen Park, then went to a small liberal arts college, Adrian, where I met my husband Nick. I graduated with a Communication degree in Argumentation and Advocacy and dreamed of going into PR, but landed in the world of online marketing. Nick and I married two years after graduation and settled in Livonia. It’s a teeny bit TOO suburban for my taste in some ways, but I love being close to both Ann Arbor (where I work) and Detroit, and we’ve got great friends and neighbors here.

We were married for about four years when I was “happily surprised” to find out I was pregnant with our son. We welcomed Oliver into our family in October 2012. My company gives us a really generous maternity leave, so I had a lot of time off with Oliver before returning to work part time. Oliver wasn’t the world’s easiest baby, so some of those days dragged on and on during maternity leave, but looking back, I am really thankful I had that time to ease into motherhood. I was so uncertain about everything I did when he was little, and know I’m still making plenty of mistakes, but have learned to trust my instincts more in the last two years, stress less about each decision, and trust that God “loaned” Oliver specifically to me and Nick for a reason.

In addition to family stuff, I really love vegging watching TV – even though I don’t have cable, I’m more of a TV junkie than I’d really like to admit (love Parks and Rec and The Mindy Show lately, Gilmore Girls and The Office are my all time favorites, and I also like some British TV shows). I’m not a great cook but I really love going out to eat, and am about the least picky eater I know…I can never decide if that’s a good thing or not, because it means that I think that just about anything I cook is okay, and I’m always afraid I’ll serve guests food that is actually disgusting to anyone but me.

{Babies and Beyond}

Oliver – Oliver just turned two. I really hate phrases like “He is all boy,” but despite any of my attempts to introduce him to all kinds of toys, books, etc, it is totally true in his case. He is a funny, energetic curly-haired kid who is totally and completely obsessed with any and all vehicles, especially cars and trains. My not-so-easy-baby has turned into an awesome little boy, who loves to “wace” and “wun awound” the house, which is a good thing because it takes a lot to wear him out! I’m really excited (and plenty nervous) to see how he adapts to being a big brother in a few months. Right now he understands there’s a baby in my belly, and also talks about “sisser” when we see baby items or talk about babies.

Baby #2 – I can’t believe we are having another baby in just a few months! I would’ve been excited for Oliver to have a brother, but am also pumped to have a girl, and hope that we can share some things that I loved growing up (Anne of Green Gables, anyone?). I absolutely consider myself a feminist, and am already finding that there are some interesting things that people expect/say/do when you’re having a girl that will be interesting or tough for me. I’m definitely not anti-pink or anything girly, but want to make sure I raise a young woman who finds her value in her personality and knowing she is loved no matter what she looks like or how she dresses.

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Birmingham YMCA

Birmingham

*

Cherokee Elementary PTO

Clinton Twp

*

House of Prayer & Praise Ministries

Detroit

*

GOMOMS at {Lake Orion High School}

Lake Orion

*

Christ Lutheran School

Milford

*

Training & Treatment Innovations, Inc

Oxford

*

St. Valentine PTA

Redford

*

Addams Elementary PTA

Royal Oak

*

South Lyon MOMS at {UMC}

South Lyon

*

Havel Volunteer League

Sterling Heights

*

{Location} The Henry Ford 20900 Oakwood Blvd. Dearborn

*

{Location} Nature Center at Heritage Park Farmington Hills

*

{Location} Wilson Barn Livonia

*

{Location} At the Park and Parking Lot on the corner of Turner St. and Gr. River Ave. Lansing

*

{Location} Wilson Barn Livonia

*

{Location} Wilson Barn Livonia

*

{Location} 6421 North Stoney Creek Rd. Monroe

*

{Location} Northville Community Center Northville

*

{Location} Suburban Collection Showplace 46100 Grand River Avenue Novi

*

{Location} 481 Lake George Road Oxford

*

{Location} 760 Penniman Avenue Plymouth

*

{Location} Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm Rochester Hills

*

The Rochester Area Jaycees Annual Tunnel of Terror

{Location} Rochester Municipal Park Rochester

*

{Location} The Detroit Zoo Royal Oak

*

{Location} Southfield Pavilion Southfield

*

Plan Ahead For Everything and It Will Pay Off

A Little Routine Can Go A Long Way

{Pros and Cons}

*

*

*

*

*

The Rochester Area Jaycees Annual Tunnel of Terror

*

Real Moms at {Calvary Baptist Church}

Canton

*

Creative Learning Campus

Flat Rock

*

New Life Christian Fellowship

Grand Blanc

*

{Location}
The Henry Ford
20900 Oakwood Blvd.
Dearborn

{Location}
Nature Center at Heritage Park
Farmington Hills

{Location}
Wilson Barn
Livonia

{Location}
At the Park and Parking Lot on
the corner of Turner St. and Gr. River Ave.
Lansing

{Location}
Wilson Barn
Livonia

{Location}
Wilson Barn
Livonia

{Location}
6421 North Stoney Creek Rd.
Monroe

{Location}
Northville Community Center
Northville

{Location}
Suburban Collection Showplace
46100 Grand River Avenue
Novi

{Location}
481 Lake George Road
Oxford

{Location}
760 Penniman Avenue
Plymouth

{Location}
Rochester Hills Museum
at Van Hoosen Farm
Rochester Hills

The Rochester Area Jaycees Annual
Tunnel of Terror

{Location}
Rochester Municipal Park
Rochester

{Location}
The Detroit Zoo
Royal Oak

{Location}
Southfield Pavilion
Southfield

The Rochester Area Jaycees Annual
Tunnel of Terror