Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches

August 10, 2014

Now that summer is pretty much in full swing, I’m still thinking about fun and delicious summer recipes. I was just recently introduced to these awesome homemade Strawberry Ice Cream Sandwiches. They are amazing and very easy to make. * Recipe courtesy of Nielsen-Massey Vanillas.

Here are the ingredients and directions you need to get you started and then producing scrumptious homemade strawberry ice cream sandwiches:

Ice Cream- Yield 1 1/2 Quarts

Ingredients

1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled and washed.
3/4 cup sugar
2 teaspoons Nielsen-Massey Tahitian Pure Vanilla Extract
1/4 teaspoon Nielsen-Massey Pure Lemon Extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
1 cup whole milk

Directions

In a 4 quart class measuring cup, add berries, sugar, vanilla, and lemon extracts, and salt. Smash with a potato masher; stir in cream and milk; set aside.

Assemble ice cream maker. Turn ice cream maker on and pour ice cream mixture into *frozen container. Let mix until ice cream thickens, about 20 minutes.

Transfer ice cream into an air tight container; freeze for several hours, or for a firmer ice cream, freeze overnight. Scoop ice cream, place between 2 cookies and gently press. Or, for a perfect ice cream round: line a 9×13-inch pan with foil then evenly spread ice cream with a rubber spatula; cover and freeze overnight. Then use a cookie cutter to cut desired diameter of ice cream rounds and place between 2 cookies.

*Follow manufacturers directions for freezing container, 24 hours or longer is ideal.

Don’t these just look and sound fantastic? I’m looking forward to making homemade strawberry ice cream sandwiches with my girls. My mouth is watering already!

A Day In the Life of A Working Mom

laurenmyers

August 7, 2014

I have been officially back to work now for 3 weeks. I’m a little tired. But my super busy days also reminds me of how much time I used to have before I had kids. My “downtime” is when I’m at work. Granted – I work over 50 hours a week in a very fast paced environment, but when I go home – job #2 starts. It’s not easy being a working mom and its definitely not easy being a stay at home mom either!

ROUND 1: THE EARLY WEE HOURS OF THE MORNING

4 AM

The sound of a baby wailing through the monitor wakes me out of my (not so sound – I can hear a pin drop) sleep. This is actually one of my favorite times of day. Just baby Vincent and I rocking in his room watching the sun come up. Baby is fed, diaper is dry, “school clothes” are put on and back in the cradle he goes.

Now I am awake. Time to get moving.

5 AM

I jump in the shower, get dressed, throw on some clothes… oh no – the other one is up now! I hurry and put on my makeup and go to Alexandra’s room. (Dan is already up and walking out the door to go to work – I have drop off duty today). She loves zippers and tried to take off her pajamas herself this morning! Such a big girl!

6:30 AM

Coffee is made, kids are dressed, Daddy went to work and now it’s time for me to get on the road. Strap the kids in the car and it’s a 20 minute drive to “school” then off to work. Yippee! Alexandra wants to sing “Ring around the Rosie” over and over again.

ROUND 2: MY “DAY” JOB

7:15 AM

Almost time to start my “work” day. The kids are happily eating breakfast at “school” and I enjoyed the rest of my 20 minute drive with the radio blaring loudly to upbeat music. I’m glad I didn’t forget to turn off the DVD that was playing (Giggle Bellies). Yes – there have been times when I make it all the way to work with the songs still playing and I am singing along.

10 AM

After my 10am meeting, I needed to make a quick stop thru the Starbucks drive thru before heading back to my office. MMMM hot coffee.

3 PM

“3PM Happy Hour” surprise ice cream cake for everyone. Sure… my diet can wait another day. It just happened to be my favorite flavor (Mint Chocolate Chip). I’ll have a sliver please!

ROUND 3: THE SPEED ROUND

4:30 PM

I hurry up at work and finish what I am doing to leave by 4:30PM (the latest!). Drive to daycare, pick up the kids (Mommy Mommy I got a sticker today for being good!), and sit in rush hour traffic on I-75 before pulling into the driveway at home. Oh good – Dan is home. He can entertain the kids while I run around the house. I have about 2 hours to get everything ready before bath time. Here goes nothing.

5:30 PM

Make dinner (chicken enchiladas) for today and two meals to freeze for later (Pasta with spinach, artichokes, sun dried tomatoes, red peppers and mushrooms with chunky basil marinara). Empty & reload the dishwasher. Meanwhile, running both the clothes washer and dryer. Fold the towels. Put all the toys away (cleaning lady is coming tomorrow). Eat dinner (Daddy eats first with Alexandra while I feed Vincent his bottle). Now it’s Mommy’s turn to eat (alone – yay). Finish organizing the garage while Alexandra plays on her new outdoor toys. “Mommy I have dirt!” BATH TIME!!!! All clean and in new pajamas!

ROUND 4: GO TO SLEEP… CLOSE YOUR EYES… BEDTIME!

8 PM

The kitchen is wiped up, the clothes are folded and put away, the garage is organized and I’m all ready for the cleaning lady to come and “clean” the rest of the house. Even the kids are clean! They are snuggled into their pajamas and ready to end the day with a good night’s rest.

9:45 PM

GET BACK INTO THAT BED! FINALLY, after almost two of hours of stories, tickles, songs, and holding hands, Alexandra is sound asleep. And of course – Vincent wakes up for his last nightly feeding! Back to the rocking chair where Vincent and I started our day. This time, we get to rock and watch the sunset over the trees.

11 PM

Finally, the day has ended. After a quick rinse in the shower (thanks Vinnie for the baby spit up on my clean pajamas), Dan and I lay in bed. “Goodnight Honey!” And within minutes, we are both sound asleep. 4AM is just around the corner to do this all over again!

Weekend Happenings :: August 8th ~ August 10th

Elizabeth Lewis

August 6, 2014

Cheeseburger Festival in {Caseville}

Come enjoy 10 days of non-stop fun!! There will be 50 plus kids events and what would the Cheeseburger Fest be without burgers?!

{Date}

August 8, 2014 – August 17, 2014

{Times}

10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

{Location}

Caseville

*

Chalk It Up at Gallery U Boutique in {Royal Oak}

Come DeCoRaTe the sidewalk with chalk!! There will be light snacks provided. You can also purchase unique chalkboards handcrafted by clients.

{Date}

August 8, 2014

{Time}

1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

{Cost}

Free

{Location}

Gallery U Boutique
310 Fourth St
Royal Oak

*

Full Moon Friday Night Hikes at Heritage Park in {Farmington Hills}

This event is for all of those campfire + nature lovers!! Ohhhh, and lets not forget s’mores!! You can’t have a campfire without good ole’ s’mores!! You’ll love taking an evening stroll through Heritage Park listening for animals while enjoying time with your family.

{Times}

Campfire (7 p.m. – 9 p.m.)

Evening Stroll (9:00 – 10:00)

{Cost}

S’mores – $1

Hike – $3

{Location}

Farmington Hills Nature Center, Heritage Park
24915 Farmington Rd
Farmington Hills

*

Birmingham Family Movie Night in Booth Park

Who doesn’t love watching a movie under the stars?! Bring a blanket or lawn chair and make yourself comfortable in front of the big screen,

{Movie}

Despicable Me 2

{Date}

August 8, 2014

{Time}

7:30 p.m.

{Cost}

FREE

{Location}

Booth park
West Side of North Old Woodward Ave, just north of Harmon Street
Birmingham

*

Saline’s Summerfest

Enjoy a teen block party, live entertainment, family games, arts + crafts, old-fashioned Historical Trolley Ride and much more.

{Date}

August 8, 2014 – August 9, 2014

{Time}

Friday: 6 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. – 11 p.m.

{Cost}

FREE

{Location}

Downtown Saline

*

Walking with Dinosaurs: The Arena Spectacular’ at the Palace of Auburn Hills

Come see 20 life-size dinosaurs, including the scariest predator of all, Tyrannosaurus. Be amazed by their 200 million year story of existence on Earth

{Date}

August 6, 2014 – August 10, 2014

{Times}

August 6 – 8 at 7 p.m.

August 9 – 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

August 10 – 1 p.m. and 5 p.m.

{Cost}

Tickets range from $19.50 – $59.50

http://www.ticketmaster.com/Walking-with-Dinosaurs-The-Arena-tickets/artist/1265328

{Location}

The Palace of Auburn Hills
6 Championship Drive
Auburn Hills

*

Milford Memories Summer Festival at Central Park in {Milford}

{Dates}

August 8, 2014 – August 10, 2014

{Times}

Friday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Saturday: 7:30 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Sunday: 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

*These times are referring to Art in the Park. For entertainment + other activities please refer to the website for times.

{Cost}

FREE

{Location}

Central Park
151 N. Main St
Milford

*

American Girls Garden Party at Lake St . Clair in {Harrison Township}

Ages 6 plus can bring their American Girl doll or other favorite doll to enjoy crafts, activities and eat garden-themed snacks.

{Date}

August 9, 2014

{Time}

10:00 a.m.

{Cost}

Child – $5

Park Entry/Parking – $7

{Location}

Lake St. Clair Metropark
31300 Metropolitan Parkway
Harrison Township

*

Superhero Open House at Arts & Scraps in {Detroit}

Calling all superheros!!! Come make YOUR superhero costume out of recycled materials + meet Kris Moore, writer and creator of two comic books.

{Date}

August 9, 2014

{Time}

11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

{Cost}

FREE

{Location}

Arts & Scraps
16135 Harper Ave.
Detroit

*

Go Wild For a Cure: Detroit Zoo Walk to Cure Lupus in {Royal Oak}

Head to the Detroit Zoo to support an awesome cause and raise awareness for the devastating disease of lupus. Proceeds from this events will aid in the support and research to find a cure for Lupus.

{Date}

August 10, 2014

{Time}

7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

{Cost}

$20 per person

{Location}

Detroit Zoo
8450 W. 10 Mile Road
Royal Oak

*

Summer Sunday at Upland Hills Farm in {Oxford}

Open to families for hayrides, visits with animals and a session milking cows. How much fun would it be to milk a cow?!

{Date}

August 10, 2014

{Time}

12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

{Cost}

General admission – $8

2 and under – FREE

{Location}

Upland Hills Farm
481 Lake George
Oxford

Hidden Secrets

Lauren Haney

August 4, 2014

Remember when you were pregnant and you pretended to eat super healthy while sneaking Taco Bell Chalupas on a regular basis? Wait…that was me.

When we are pregnant and we have that first bundle of joy, we research the best car seat, pack’n’play, swing, and of course that one thing we thought we needed the best of and still have never used {even after our second child}. Then that little one grows and now needs real food, so we slave over the stove cooking our own baby food, only buy organic, and still enjoy sharing a few bites of ice cream.

As moms we want the best for our children. We want to provide all that we can and set up our little ones up for all the success in the world.

And yet. We are missing something.

We miss something so obvious that it takes another mom to throw some facts in our face and give us a choice to do something about it. Yes, I’m that mom.

80,000 unregulated chemicals in our daily products.

Meaning a pack of cigarettes is safer because it has a Surgeon General’s warning on it.

Chemicals linked to the very things us moms pray every night is something we don’t have to deal with. Autism, Cancer, ADHD, Auto-Immune Diseases, Heart Disease, Diabetes, and a plethora of other illnesses. Yet, there is no warning label on the laundry detergent, baby shampoo, dishwashing detergent, floor cleaner, lotion, or any other product I used in my home.

1 in 2 people WILL get Cancer.

And really. I’m tired of it. And that 80,000 unregulated chemicals is showing up in the products you may be using every day. Take a look at this photo:

Recognize any of the products? All scored an “F” on the Environmental Working Group (EWG, http://www.ewg.org). Yes, F still means Failing in this case. That means there are ingredients linked to cancer, developmental issues, reproductive concerns, allergies, asthma, and environmental concerns.

Here is a typical listing on http://www.ewg.org and my bet is you have used this product thinking you were making a safer choice for your family. You would be right. Because the original product of this looks like this:

Let’s not just feed our kids healthy and organic options and ignore the shampoo we use on them. Or ignore what we clean their bathtub with. Or their dishes, laundry, floor they walk on.

So what can you do?

Check out the EWG { http://www.ewg.org } , a trusted third party resource.

Also, take The Free Toxic Test { http://www.TheFreeToxicTest.com}.

I am here to help you find those hidden secrets.

Weekend Happenings In + Around Metro-Detroit {July 10th – July 13th}

Annette

July 10, 2014

Detroit Zoo Summer Zoomance

Summer Zoomance sounds like a fun date night! This event is for adults who are young at heart and features cash bars so you can enjoy an adult beverage while strolling through the Zoo! There are complimentary tram tours, animal enrichment and zookeeper talks, live music at Rackham Fountain and rides on the Tauber Family Railroad for a fee.

{Date}

July 10th

{Times}

6 pm to 9 pm

{Cost}

Tickets: $14

Parking: $6

{Location}

The Detroit Zoo
Royal Oak

*

Wyandotte Street Art Fair

Come view over 250 juried art booths throughout Wyandotte’s Central Business District for six blocks. The fair offers a variety of fine art, music, food and activities for all ages.

{Dates}

July 9th – 12th

{Times}

Art Fair from 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

Entertainment from 12:00 pm – 11:00 pm

{Cost}

Free

{Location}

Downtown Wyandotte

*

Concert of Colors

This is a community affair, this 5 day event is one of the only FREE music festivals in Metro-Detroit. The city will be alive with people visiting the many live concert venues on or near Woodward Avenue in Midtown. The music and people are diverse and there is plenty to do with the entire family. Arts and Scraps will have their Scrapmobile truck for kids to explore and create. Great food, and the amazing Detroit food trucks will be around town. It is great way to explore the city and listen to great tunes from all around the world.

{Dates}

July 10th – 13th

{Times}

Visit this link and see the schedule of events and listen to the current song!

{Cost}

All performances are FREE and open to the public

{Location}

Venues include :: New Center Park, Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, The Scarab Club, Detroit Institute of Arts South Lawn, Max M. Fisher Music Center {indoor and outdoor}

Downtown Detroit

*

Detroit Symphony Orchestra at the Ford House

Are you looking for an “unforgettable” evening?! You might want to consider checking out the DSO and world-renowned jazz vocalist Dee Daniels as they will pay tribute to three of the greatest gentlemen of song – Nat “King” Cole, Frank Sinatra, and Stevie Wonder.

{Date}

July 11, 2014

{Times}

Gates open at 6 pm

Concert begins at 8 pm

Fireworks at 10 pm

{Costs}

Tickets start at $20. Get your tickets here.

{Location}

Edsel and Eleanor Ford House Grounds
1100 LakeShore Road
Grosse Pointe Shores

*

Saline Celtic Festival

This highly anticipated Irish Heritage festival consists of 2 days of Celtic style music and dance entertainment, workshops, sporting events and much more fun for the whole family.

{Date}

July 11th and 12th

{Times}

Friday 5 pm until midnight

Saturday 8 am until midnight

{Cost}

Adult $15

Youth (13-17) $5

Child 12 and under FREE

Pub Night $5

Tickets can be purchased here.

{Location}

Millpond Park
Saline

*

Art in the Park Plymouth

This is Michigan’s second largest art fair, it is held every year in July. It is a 3 day event with over 400 artists from all over the country who display their work to nearly 300,000 attendees. Come stroll the streets of Plymouth and you will find amazing art, music and food.

{Date}

July 11th – 13th

{Times}

Friday 11 am – 8 pm

Saturday 10 am – 7 pm

Sunday 10 am – 5 pm

{Cost}

Free

Parking: Free

Shuttle Service $3 for adults round trip, 12 and under FREE

{Location}

Shuttle located at ACH Plant
14425 N. Sheldon Rd.
Plymouth

Downtown Plymouth

*

Mo Pop Festival Detroit

This event looks like another GREAT date night! A day full of music, art, Michigan craft beer, and Detroit Food Trucks galore!

{Date}

July 12th

{Times}

12 am – 12 pm

{Cost}

Day of price $60

Parking $10

{Location}

Freedom Hill
Sterling Heights

*

Royal Oak Outdoor Art Fair

The 44th Annual Royal Oak Outdoor Art Fair enjoy art, music, food and fun!

{Date}

July 12th and 13th

{Times}

Saturday 10 am – 6 pm

Sunday 10 am – 5 pm

{Location}

Memorial Park
Woodward Ave. at 13 Mile and Coolidge Hwy.
Royal Oak

*

10 Annoying Questions and Comments for Adoptive Families

Robyn Coden

July 5, 2014

In March of 2008, my husband and I adopted an 11 month old baby from China and brought her home to the suburbs of Detroit. Although we waited 2-½ years to get our daughter, I was in no way prepared for parenthood. I was, however, prepared for the possible “adoption” questions that people might ask. I had been warned, and I was ready.

I know some people get very offended by adoption questions, but to me, it’s part of what we signed up for when we signed up for international adoption. I never took offense to any of them, I’m not sure why. It could be because I’m Jewish so I have had my share of fun questions over the years: “Oh, you’re Jewish?? I know some Jews in Texas! You might know them? Rosenbaum??” Like we all know each other, like we all have sweet matching Jew jackets.

There is nothing wrong with being curious about families that don’t fit the conventional norm. You might even sneak a peek or propose a question if you see one such family out and about. But, just as a PSA, if you are in the presence of a family with a child who is adopted , here are 10 you might want to avoid:

{1.} To a mom and her Asian baby: “Does she speak Chinese?” No, she does not speak Chinese. She doesn’t speak anything. She is a freakin’ baby.

{2.} “How much did you pay for her?” No one has ever asked me that, but if they did, I think I’d pee in my pants.

{3.} “She is SO cute! Do you have any of your own?” Someone asked me this when I was at the Olga’s in West Bloomfield once and I was so proud of my answer: “Ummmm, if she’s not mine, someone at this restaurant is going to be really mad when they realize I took her.”

{4.} To a mom and her child CLEARLY from another country: “Are you going to tell her that she’s adopted?” No, I’m never telling her and I’m sure she’ll never figure it out.

{5.} “Now that you have adopted, you will for sure get pregnant. I know this one girl, well, I don’t know her but my friend kind of does, and she was waiting to adopt from Cambodia or Russia or somewhere and then she got PREGNANT!!” …UGH. Please, STOP…Adoption is not always a second choice. Please don’t assume it is and please don’t assume we need to hear your stories about all the people who got pregnant right after they adopted. For some of us, the need to adopt was much more overwhelming than the need to get pregnant. In fact, many of us have never had any desire to get preggo, ever. (Or was that just me? Maybe it was, sorry.)

{6.} Since I have two daughters, one who is adopted from China and one who is biological, I actually get this question on occasion: “Are they real sisters?” …”They are, and they’re SPECTACULAR!!” (If you know what that reference is from, you will think it’s funny.)

{7.} “Are you babysitting?” I was at Jax Car Wash in Southfield when some guy asked me if I was the nanny for my kids. I was so excited that I called my girlfriend to tell her. We immediately assumed, of course, that the guy asked me that question because he thought I looked young. After hearing that other adoptive moms have been asked this same question, I regretfully realize that my girlfriend and I may have been wrong. The man who asked was probably confused by me having one kid from China and from “The Bagina.” He didn’t think I looked young at all. He just thought I was some old ass babysitter. I hate that guy.

{8.} “I didn’t realize she was going to look so Chinese!!” Um…OK?

{9.} “Why didn’t you adopt from the U.S.?” I will never forget that one. We were at dinner in Birmingham and some guy asked me that. Everyone has their own reasons for adopting and for choosing their child’s area of descent. I have a whole back story that led me to China and I don’t mind discussing it. Others do. Slippery slope on this one. Wear a helmet.

{10.} “If you hadn’t gotten your daughter, someone else would have, right?” Some lady said that to me at a party on Cass Lake once and I wanted to throw her off the boat. I don’t know why it bothered me so much, but it did. She wasn’t trying to mean, she was just making a point— and she’s probably right. Someone else would have gotten our daughter if we hadn’t, but we were the ones who were “matched” up with her, and we are the ones that got her, and for that, we are very thankful every day of our lives (And our daughter should be too because we let her skip school for a Tiger’s game on her birthday, she gets to live in the same city as Eminem, and we eat a lot of cake.

****************************************************

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Weekend Happenings {July 4th – July 6th}

Annette

July 2, 2014

Happy Independence Day!!!

This weekend is full of fun every where in + around Detroit! If you are looking for a great list to find local firework displays, parades or festivals near you be sure to check out our summer guide, Detroit Moms Blog :: Detroit + Metro-Detroit Fireworks Guide 2014. The list is full of great information and is organized by county. It covers Oakland, Wayne, Washtenaw, Livingston, Macomb County+ our Metroparks!

If you love buying local and love farm fresh food we have something new for you to check out, Detroit Moms Blog :: Local Farmers Market Guide 2014. We hope it helps you find the perfect location near you! If heading out this holiday weekend be sure to visit the markets website to make sure it is open!

Maybe you are planning to have a long extended vacation weekend at home or just planning to have a great holiday weekend packed with family fun, check out the Detroit Moms Blog :: Our Summer Wish List. This list is full of ideas that can help you make your weekend to-do list full of adventure and family fun! It is going to be a great weekend in Michigan! EnJoY +have a sparkly, safe Fourth of July!

* * *

Weekend Happenings

The Henry Ford Salute to America

This is an amazing event at the Henry Ford featuring the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Imagine enjoying a picnic with your family while watching and listening to an orchestrated fireworks display… You can at The Henry Ford. Enjoy the historic venue all decked out for an amazing Independence Day celebration.

{Date}

July 2nd – July 5th

{Times}
6:oo p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

{Cost}
Non-Member Adult 13+ $24 ($28 day of pricing)
Non-member Youth 5-12 $15 ($19 day of pricing)
4 and under FREE
(discount pricing for members)

{Location}
The Henry Ford
20900 Oakwood Blvd
Dearborn

*

{Downtown Northville} Independence Day Parade

Come celebrate the Fourth of July in Downtown Northville, they host an Independence Day Parade down Main Street. At noon head to Ford Field located adjacent to the historic Mill Race Village and catch an All-American baseball game! While watching the Metro-Detroit vintage baseball league, have a picnic and stroll through the historic village.

{Date}

July 4th

{Times}
Parade begins at 10:00 a.m.
Baseball Game begins at noon
Mill Race Village is open from 12p.m. to 4 p.m.

{Cost}
Free

{Location}
Downtown Northville

*

{Downtown Plymouth} Good Morning USA Parade

The Fourth of July Celebration kicks off on Thursday night with a spectacular fireworks display. The Parade begins early Saturday morning with thousands expected. Following the parade be sure to visit the Plymouth Township Park for a festive All-American picnic and bike decorating contest!

{Date}

July 3rd ~ Fireworks 2t 10:15 p.m.
July 4th ~ Parade + Picnic beginning at 9 a.m.

{Cost}
Free
(There are $5 parking lots for the fireworks)

{Location}
Downtown Plymouth

*

{Downtown Milford} 4th of July Parade

Join the Milford Historical Society as they host the 4th of July Parade that steps down Main Street.

{Date}

July 4th at 11:00 a.m.

{Cost}
Free

{Location}
Downtown Milford

*

Oakpark Parade and Fun Day

The day starts with a 5K run followed by a community supported pancake breakfast. Then more fun is waiting for the family to enjoy all day. Food, games, pony rides and more.

{Date}

July 4th

{Times}
Run at 8:00 a.m.
Fair begins at 10:00 a.m.
Parade begins at 11:00 a.m.

{Cost}
Free

{Location}
Oak Park

*

Clawson 4th of July Festival

Clawson hosts an eventful holiday by starting their celebration on Thursday and ending on Saturday. You will find fireworks, parade, a fair ground, games, 1 mile run, 5K, arts + crafts and food!

{Date}

July 3rd – July 4th

{Times}
Thursday::Food Concessions and Amusement Rides in the City Park from 3-9 p.m.
Friday::1 Mile Firecracker Run and Parade at 9:00 a.m., Arts + Crafts from 10 a.m.-6:00 p.m.,
Amusement Rides and Food in the City Park from 10 a.m.-10 p.m., Fireworks at 10:00 p.m.

{Cost}
Free
(Amusement Ride Tickets available)

{Location}
Clawson

*

Huntington Woods July 4th Celebration

Huntington Woods hosts a celebration that starts early, festivities began on June 28th! Don’t worry the list of activities is long and there is still plenty to experience with the family. Including a parade + fireworks display.

{Date}

June 28th – July 4th

{Times}
Parade begins on July 4th at 10:00 a.m.
(See event details here)

{Cost}
Free (mostly!)

{Location}
Huntington Woods

*

A2SF ~ Ann Arbor Summer Festival

The A2SF hosts over 140 events over a 3 week period. This holiday weekend is the last weekend of the event. They offer both paid venues and free venues to experience these artistic performances. You can find an eclectic array of performances including live music, dance, film, art, spoken word, and lots of family entertainment!

{Date}

June 13th – July 6th

{Times}
(See event details here)

{Cost}
Paid and FREE venues available
(See event details here)

{Location}
Ann Arbor

*

Red White and You 4th of July Celebration

For the first time in 30 years Hamtramck is hosting a 4th of July Celebration thanks to the Hamtramck Firefighters essay in a Destination America and USA weekend contest! They awill have live music, petting zoo, rides and fireworks!

{Date}

July 5th

{Times}
5:00 p.m.

{Cost}
Free

{Location}
Keyworth Stadium
Hamtramck

*

Detroit Tigers Baseball

When I think of All-American I think of baseball, hotdogs + ice cold drinks! The Tigers are home all weekend playing the Rays. What a great way to celebrate America watching a baseball game followed by fabulous fireworks over the city!

(Tigers Weekend Schedule)

{Location}
Downtown Detroit

*

Free Music and Concert Series

July 3rd ~ Canton :: Heritage Park “Midwest Dueling Pianos”

July 3rd ~ Milford :: Central Park “The Farmington Concert Band – Patriotic”

July 4th ~ Farmington :: Riley Park “Benny Edwards” at 7 p.m.

July 4th ~ Northville :: Town Square “Bugs Bedow Band” at 7 p.m.

July 4th ~ Plymouth :: Kellogg Park “Rusty Wright” at 7 p.m.

July 6th ~ Grosse Ile :: Gazebo at corner of Macomb + Meridian at 7 p.m.

*

{Life of Mom} :: A Local Mom Shares Her Reality With Sons Arthritis

debbiebry

June 30, 2014

ARTHRITIS?? Seriously? How can my 11 year old son possibly have a disease that affects the elderly?

We were given this diagnosis for my son, Logan, just 1 1/2 years ago. Logan was a regular active kid who loved sports and school. Day one of our family vacation and he complained his ankle hurt. Within 1 hour the pain was so bad, I had to piggy back him back to the hotel. This pain kept up the entire vacation. When we got home, he was treated for a sprained ankle. Soon, his feet started hurting. He nicknamed it “sensitive foot syndrome.” We could not go near his feet. We laughed about it at the time. Now, the doctor treated him for low arches. He said buying arch supports should help the pain. It didn’t go away, but there wasn’t much else the podiatrist could do. One month or so later, the pediatrician discovered a huge, swollen knee. Logan had never even complained of this. It was on the same side of his body as the sore ankle. We started seeing an orthopedic surgeon. He drained Logan’s knee a few times. However, the swelling would come right back. We mentioned the sore ankle and feet. He said it was due to the sore knee. So, he soon recommended knee surgery. It was an “easy procedure” to clean the knee out and he would be playing again “in a few days!” Well, 8 weeks later, he was still walking on crutches and his knee was still swollen. The doctor actually recommended going back to draining or a compression stocking! Seriously?? Nice try buddy! We decided to find answers somewhere else!

We got in at U of M 2 weeks later. The doctors knew right away he had arthritis. The Rheumatologist could feel every joint and tell if there was arthritis and how severe it was! He was diagnosed with juvenile polyarticular arthritis. This type spreads to 5 or more joints in a 6 month period. It was 6 months since the day on the beach! So, by now it was in his hands, feet, ankles, toes, fingers and knees! Ok, we can deal with that. At least we have the diagnosis now. We felt better. Well, until word of the medicines he had to take set in. At one point I think he was on about 15 pills a day. The high doses of steroids caused him to balloon up right in the fall of 6th grade! The side effects are scary! The emotional roller coaster they have put my child on is crazy!

So, enter multi-personality mommy!

*Guilty Mommy: The part of me that wonders everyday what I could have done to prevent my child from getting this. They say it is an autoimmune disease. Kids that have these diseases are born with a clink in their immune system. So, it’s just a matter of time until that clink gets rattled and it sets the disease off. Could I have prevented it? Was it his food, microwave, stress, activities? What did I do wrong? How did I fail my son?

Guilty mommy always feels bad for my other child who watches Logan get all the special treatment.

*Angry Mommy: I’m so mad at the disease and everything that goes with it! I get so mad about people’s responses. When he isn’t having a flare up, he can play sports. Everyone assumes he is fine. They don’t see perhaps the bad morning where he couldn’t even walk down the stairs or tie his shoe without any pain. They have no idea of all the meds he takes in order to feel good. When he is having a flare up and in a wheelchair, people stare as he still looks like a normal kid. I know people want to help, but don’t tell me “it’s going to be ok.” Nobody knows if he will be ok. There is NO CURE for this disease!

*Sad Mommy: I cry a lot. I cried almost every day the first year. I watch my child struggle to run and catch up with his friends. Let’s be honest, boys are boys. They don’t understand and can’t slow down. So, I often watched my child just sit on the side or lag behind. Logan has to get a shot of methotrexate every week. I have to give it to him. He begs me every week not to do it. He throws up just at the sight or talk of it! I have to stand there with that syringe and wait for him to stop throwing up to give him his injection. It is heartbreaking!

*Scared Mommy: THE MEDS!! The meds are so scary! Am I doing the right thing by putting all these drugs in him? If I don’t, he may eventually need joint replacement surgery! So, let’s talk about the side effects of his meds. One could cause severe liver damage. So, he gets blood work every 2-4 weeks to make sure his liver is still functioning. Not to mention as he is getting older, the disaster alcohol could cause his liver if mixed with this drug. Then, his eyes. Arthritis and one of his pills can affect the eyes. A double whammy! So, he has to get eye tests every few months and go to a retinal specialist to make sure his eyes stay free of disease. Then there is the methotrexate. Basically, a low dose of chemotherapy. So, over time, it has made him so sick he can’t even stand the sight of the needle or bottle of medicine. So, he sees a therapist to try and retrain his brain to his diversion to this medicine. Oh, I forgot to mention that we also had to have “the talk.” While taking this medication, if he was to get a girl pregnant, the baby would basically be guaranteed to have birth defects. And that is what is going into my baby every week!

*Organized Mommy: He has a 3″ binder filled with paperwork from all his doctor appointments. Juggling appointments with school is very difficult as most offices are only open during school hours. He doesn’t like to miss school. Therefore, almost every day off is spent at one of his doctors. Refills! I have to stay up on his meds. If he misses a couple days in a row, we risk a flare up.

*Happy Mommy: I know, right now you are thinking what could possibly make you happy about this disease. The disease doesn’t make me happy. But every once in a while, we get a glimmer of hope; a moment of pure joy! I had one today at his doctor appointment. Watching the doctor’s face as she felt his joints. She had the look of pure joy and happiness in her eyes! His joints have no signs of active arthritis right now! That is a feeling of pure joy! Tears that came down my face because maybe my son will be that kid who goes in remission and stays in remission! The way is he trying to handle this disease makes me happy as well. He was asked to be the honoree at the Walk for a Cure at the Detroit Zoo on May 10th. Last year it was the largest arthritis walk in the country with over 3,000 people. This year, Logan shared his story at the walk. He has been raising money to find a cure . I am proud of him as he steps out of his comfort zone among adults and his peers. If you would like to learn more about the walk or donate to our team, or participate next year. Click on his link below: here.

Weekend Happenings {June 27th – June 29th}

Elizabeth Lewis

June 26, 2014

Weekend Happenings

Livonia Spree {Ford Field}

Come celebrate the city’s week-long birthday party with a midway, pig racing, contests, games, carnival food, family fun day and an aMaZiNg grand finale of FiReWoRkS.

{Date}

June 24, 2014 to June 29, 2014

{Times}

Wednesday – Friday: 2-11 p.m.

Saturday – Sunday: noon – 11 p.m.

{Cost}

Free to enter

$25 all-day ride bracelet (unlimited rides)

$50 for all three days (unlimited rides)

{Location}
Ford Field
Farmington and Lydon Rd
Livonia, MI

*

Fairy Tale Festival at the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House

{Grosse Pointe Shores}

Come explore Tinker Bell’s cottage and meet your favorite characters from the beloved story of Peter Pan. I’m sure your kids would love the “learn to fly” training session, story telling, crafts and much more.

{Date}

June 28, 2014

{Time}

10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

{Cost}

In advance: $12/ages 2+

Family of Four: $40

At the door: $15/ages 2+

{Location}
Edsel & Eleanor Ford House
1100 Lake Shore Rd
Grosse Pointe Shores, MI

*

Log Cabin Days Festival at Fish Hatchery Park {Waterford}

{Date}

June 28, 2014 to June 29, 2014

{Time}

Saturday: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

{Cost}

Free

{Location}
Fish Hatchery Park
4490 Hatchery Rd
Waterford, MI

*

Stars and Stripes Festival at Freedom Hill County Park {Sterling Heights}

Michigan’s largest free festival!!

Come enjoy a large carnival midway, free attractions, fireworks show at Dusk, three different stages with free music, art fair and much more.

{Date}

June 26, 2014 to June 29, 2014

{Cost}

Free to enter

$25/carnival ride wristbands (half off Thursday)

{Location}
Freedom Hill County Park
14900 Metropolitan Parkway
Sterling Heights, MI

*

Great American Backyard Campout

Leslie Science & Nature Center {Ann Arbor}

How fun would it be to camp at a nature center?! Join families as they celebrate an aMaZiNg National Wildlife Federation camping event. You’ll be able to enjoy nature-based programs, campfires {a favorite} + meals.

{Cost}

$50 per family

*** preregistration is required to reserve a campsite, as space is limited.

{Location}
Leslie Science & Nature Center
1831 Traver Rd
Ann Arbor, MI

*

Film on the Hill at Balduck Park {Detroit}

{Date}

June 28, 2014

This occurs every fourth Saturday during June, July and August

{Cost}

Free

{Showing}

E.T

{Location}
BalduckMemorial Park
Chandler Park Drive and Canyon Street
Detroit, MI

Summer Fun :: {Homemade Ice Cream + Strawberry Topping!}

Annette

June 24, 2014

How is it that I have accrued so many small kitchen appliances already! Oh, and to mention the cupboard space I have in this house….wait, it’s nonexistent. I have always wanted an ice cream maker but I haven’t been able to justify purchasing one. Trust me, it’s not that I can justify each and every one of these bulky little items I do already own. It’s the idea of adding just one more, even if it is only little, and then trying to find a home for it….it’s unjustifiable. I don’t have any good reason to go out and buy one today, unfortunately.

I do love homemade food. And of course we ALL love ice cream. In search to find a simple {easy} way to make healthy homemade ice cream for my family, I remembered making homemade ice cream in a baggie as a kid. And made it again with my sister + her son when he was growing up. Now it’s my turn to try it with my tikes! We don’t usually have dairy milk or half + half on hand, but we always have almond milk or coconut milk. Which worked out just fine. I think this recipe will work great with any type of milk you already have in your refrigerator at home. There shouldn’t be a need to make an extra trip to the store for these simple ingredients.

It’s strawberry season and I had some on hand. I decided to make a yummy strawberry topping to go on top of the homemade ice cream. I try to limit sugar around here so I used only a little bit in this recipe. I also planned on adding the strawberry topping which is plenty sweet too. If you like things a little bit sweeter, just adjust the sugar. The kids had a blast helping mom in the kitchen + shaking the bags to turn the milk into ice cream. They were also amazed which led them to ask some great

questions, it kind of felt like a little science experiment too!

{Homemade Strawberry Ice Cream Topping Recipe}

1 cup of frozen strawberries {I think frozen strawberries could work with this recipe too!}

2-4 tbs. of sugar

Heat the strawberries + sugar over medium heat on the stove, bring it to a slight bubble and remove from the heat after about 5 minutes. That’s it, it took about 5 minutes from the time I placed the pan on the stove. A small pint size mason jar is perfect for storing this recipe. It makes almost 8 oz. I made the homemade strawberry topping first because I didn’t want it to make the ice cream melt. I placed it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours before we even attempted to make the ice cream.

{{P.S. I make this same strawberry topping to go on top of strawberry shortcake + angel food cake, two other simple summery treats. This recipe makes for yummy leftovers and I am sure you won’t let this one go to waste, it’s even delicious by the spoonful!}}

{Homemade Ice Cream Recipe}

1 cup of unsweetened almond milk {or milk of your choice}

1/4 tsp. almond extract {or vanilla!}

1-2 tbs. sugar {or sweetener of your choice}

5-6 tbs. of salt {the larger the salt crystal the better, I used table salt + added 6 tbs., kosher or rock salt are better…}

ice cubes {to fill 1/2 of a 1 gallon zip lock bag}

1 gallon size zip lock bag {freezer kind is best, less likely to open or puncture while being mixed}

1 pint size zip lock bag

Toppings of your choice {try the strawberry topping recipe above! We also went patriotic and added some red + blue sprinkles on top!}

I added the sugar, milk + almond {or vanilla} extract into the small pint size zip lock bag. Then I added the salt and ice into the large gallon bag. Then placed the pint size inside the gallon size, zipped it up + shake, shake, shake! Shake for about 5 minutes, you will see the consistency change and it turns into what looks like soft serve ice cream! It does melt quickly, especially on a hot summer day. {I even added my sons melted mixed up mess back into the baggie and gave it another shake! Which led me to the decision to only make one ice bag next time…and I buy cheap zip locks, so I will double up next time as well! Gotta love lessons learned!}

{{P.S. my boys LOVE Boston Coolers, one of them remarked that this would be SO good if we added Vernors to it!!! I love their ideas;) I think we just might have to try making their recipe one day!}}

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