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Sunday, December 18, 2011

Happy Holidays Everyone!

I hope everyone enjoys the rest of this wonderful holiday season!!

New Years Around The World, Flint Children's Museum, 12/20, 12/21
Wild Adventures - Natures Gifts!, For-Mar Nature Center, 12/21
Gingerbread Houses & Snowflakes, Gaines Library, 12/22
Knee High Naturalist - Reindeer, For-Mar Nature Center, 12/21 & 12/22
Jazz Walk, Downtown Flint, 12/22
A Christmas Carol, Flint Youth Theater, 12/22, 12/23, 12/24
Winter Solstice Crafts, Flint Children's Museum, 12/22
 Polar Express, Flint Children's Museum, 12/23
Christmas at Crossroads Village, 12/20 - 12/23
Holiday Skating, BOGO Special, Perani Arena, 12/23
Flint Farmers Market, 12/24
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!
Robots: The Interactive Exhibition, Sloan Museum, Flint, 9/24/11 - 1/8/12
If you know of other events going on in the area please comment or email!

Sunday, December 11, 2011

Week of Dec. 12th - 18th

There are all kinds of great events this week.  There are lots of Holiday productions around Flint, enjoy!!

New Years Around The World, Flint Children's Museum, 12/13, 12/14 & 12/15
Wild Adventures -Let it Snow!, For-Mar Nature Center, 12/14
MCC Basketball, Flint, 12/14
Crafts for Kids, Montrose Library, 12/14
Knee High Naturalist, For-Mar Nature Center, 12/14 & 12/15
Teen Book Club, Montrose Library, 12/15
A Christmas Carol, Flint Youth Theater, 12/15
Holiday Walk, For Mar Nature Center, 12/15 & 12/16
Discount Day! Flint Childrens Museum, 12/16
 Polar Express, Flint Childrens Museum, 12/16
Pictures with Santa, Flint Childrens Museum, 12/16 & 12/17
The Elf that Sold Christmas, Buckham Alley Theater, 12/16 - 12/18
Michigan Warrior Hockey, Perani Arena, 12/16
Christmas at Crossroads Village, 12/16 - 12/18
In Room Rockets, Longway Planetarium, 12/17
Flints Largest Mom 2 Mom Sale!, Perani Arena, 12/17
Holiday Pops, The Whiting, 12/17 & 12/18
Flint Farmers Market, 12/13, 12/15, 12/17
Robots: The Interactive Exhibition, Sloan Museum, Flint, 9/24/11 - 1/8/12
Going Global!, Flint Children's Museum, All December!!

If you know of other events going on in the area please comment or email!

Monday, November 28, 2011

The Holidays are in Full Swing!

There are all kinds of great events this week.  The holiday celebrations have begun, enjoy are there is to do in Flint!!

Guess What Makes That Sound, Flint Children's Museum, 11/29
Wild Adventures -Earthquake!, For-Mar Nature Center, 11/29
Crafts for Kids, Montrose Library, 11/30
Textured Finger Painting, Flints Children Museum, 11/30
Knee High Naturalist, For-Mar Nature Center, 11/30 & 12/1
Book Sale, Montrose Library, 12/1 - 12/3
A Christmas Carol, Flint Youth Theater, 12/2 & 12/3
MCC Basketball Tournament, Flint, 12/2 - 12/3
Michigan Warrior Hockey, Perani Arena, 12/2
YMCA Santa Run!, Downtown Flint, 12/3
Gingerbread Houses, Fenton Library, 12/3
Polar Express read, Sloan Museum, 12/3
Sounds of the Seasons, St. Paul's Church, Flint, 12/3
Big Brother/Big Sister Motorcycle Races, Perani Arena, 12/3
Growing Gardeners: Spectacular Seeds, For-Mar Nature Center, 12/2
Christmas at Crossroads Village, 12/2 - 12/4
Flint Farmers Market, 11/29, 12/1, 12/3
Robots: The Interactive Exhibition, Sloan Museum, Flint, 9/24/11 - 1/8/12
Mister Roger's Sweater Drive, All Genesee County Libraries, Donate Children's sweaters, November
Going Global!, Flint Children's Museum, All December!!

If you know of other events going on in the area please comment or email!

Sunday, November 20, 2011

Happy Thanksgiving!

Storytime w/ Miss Susan, Davison Library, 11/21
Guess What Makes That Sound, Flint Children's Museum, 11/22
Textured Turkeys, Flint Children's Museum, 11/23
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!
Silly Sights Activities, Flint Children's Museum, 11/25
Growing Gardeners: Seeds for any Season, For-Mar Nature Center, 11/25
Colors!, Longway Planetarium, 11/25
Mixed Up Messes, Longway Planetarium, 11/25
Christmas at Crossroads Village, 11/25 - 11/27
Flint Handmade Craft Market, Downtown Flint, 11/26 ( Come visit me! )
Search and Sniff Game, Flint Children's Museum, 11/26
Huckleberry Radio Hour, Crossroads Village, 11/26
Post-Turkey Trot, For-Mar Nature Center, 11/26
Flint Farmers Market, 11/22, 11/26
Robots: The Interactive Exhibition, Sloan Museum, Flint, 9/24/11 - 1/8/12
Mister Roger's Sweater Drive, All Genesee County Libraries, Donate Children's sweaters, November
Silly Senses, Flint Children's Museum, All November!!

If you know of other events going on in the area please comment or email!

Sunday, November 13, 2011

Week of Nov. 14 - Nov. 20th

Ladies Night Out, Crossroads Village, 11/14
Storytime w/ Miss Susan, Davison Library, 11/14
Guess What Makes That Sound, Flint Children's Museum, 11/15
Discount Day! Flint Children's Museum, 11/16
Crafts for Kids, Montrose Library, 11/16
Wild Adventures:  More than Turkeys, For-Mar Nature Center, 11/16
Knee High Naturalist: Thanksgiving Celebration, For-Mar Nature Center, 11/16 & 11/17
Teen Book Club, Montrose Library, 11/17
Silly Sights Activities, Flint Children's Museum, 11/18
Drumline Live!, Whiting Auditorium, Flint, 11/18
Book Sale, Genesee Library, 11/18 - 11/19
Jazzy Holiday Celebration, Grand Blanc and Flint
Robots!!, Sloan Museum, Flint, 11/19
Textured Turkeys, Flint Children's Museum, 11/19
Holiday Bazzar and Lunch with St. Nick, St. Bartholomew's, Swartz Creek, 11/19
Mom to Mom Sale, Clio, 11/19
Flint Farmers Market, 11/15, 11/17, 11/19
Robots: The Interactive Exhibition, Sloan Museum, Flint, 9/24/11 - 1/8/12
Mister Roger's Sweater Drive, All Genesee County Libraries, Donate Children's sweaters, November
Silly Senses, Flint Children's Museum, All November!!

If you know of other events going on in the area please comment or email!

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Christmas: Made in the USA

There have been several news pieces done lately on buying items made in the USA.  I have done what most of us have done, watched, and thought, 'Wow, it would be hard to find things made in America.'  The more I thought about it, I decided, maybe it is time I do my small part to support those business' making an effort to produce their products here in America.  Maybe our small efforts will help create just one more job here in the US.

I figured I better start early with my shopping/research this year if I was really going to make this happen.  Much to my surprise, the more I researched, I quickly realized this 'feat' was going to be MUCH easier than I had thought.  Though, I will admit, going into a store and trying to purchase items made in the USA is not as easy.  My recommendation, research and shop online!  I am truly amazed and excited to find all kinds of great merchandise that is made right here in our country.  Below is a list of some of my favorite items and websites that I discovered.  I have also included some simple ideas for gift giving that are always 'Made in America'. Many of these items are made right here in Michigan!  I have always been a supporter of local business.  Holiday time is the perfect time to support your local economy as well.  I ask that everyone who reads this tries to purchase at least one (or more) gift that is made in America. This is how we help one another, this is what this country is about.

As I do my holiday shopping I will update the list and my progress towards the goal!  I

Toys:
Uncle Goose* - Made in Grand Rapids, this company makes the original wooden blocks with wood from Michigan....and blocks with a modern spin!
Green Toys - I discovered this company when I purchased their baby spoons that are the best!  All of their products are made from recycled plastic. Green and made in the US!
Fat Brain Toys - A great variety of brain toys!
Little Tykes (some) This links you to the toys offered by the company that are made in America.
Poof-Slinky* Located in Plymouth this company produces the Slinky, foam footballs and much more!
Different Drummer Wood Toys - Back to the basics.  Great wooden toys, that keep it simple and pure.

Clothing:
American Apparel
GO Athletic Apparel
Orvis
SmartWool
Bamboosa

Shoes:
New Balance (some) This is they only athletic shoe made in the US.
Red Wing Shoes Great work boots.
Oka B Women's shoes, $40 and under.
Chacos
Bear Feet - Great infant and toddler shoes.

Skin Care/Beauty:
Arbonne - A wide variety of skin care and make-up, certified Vegan.
Bee All Natural* Great natural products made in Shelby Twp!
Pass Christian Soap Company

Wrapping:
Cream City Ribbon - Awesome ribbon, great for the holidays and many other occasions.
Nashville Wraps - Offers a wide variety of wrapping for all occasions.

Food/Candies:
Sanders* A Michigan favorite, great candy and goodies.
Achatz Pies* Wonderful pies for any occasion.
Great Harvest Bread Company* Offers a wide variety of breads and had great gift items!
Grassfields Cheese Company* A great farm in Michigan offering organic cheese, meats and more!
Michigan Wines* This is a link to a wide variety of Michigan vineyards.
vonStiehl Wine Naughty Girl is my fave!

Easy Ideas:
-Gift Certificates for Manicure, Pedicure, Massage,Salons
-Shop local Crafters (Check out holiday craft fairs)
-Etsy  - Website of handmade items
- Gift cards to restaurants, movie theaters


Great resource websites:
Toysofusa.com
Americansworking.com

Sunday, November 6, 2011

Week of November 7th - 13th

It's November already......Enjoy!!


Storytime w/ Miss Susan, Davison Library, 11/7
How to Write Scholarship Essays, Davison Library, 11/7
Guess What Makes That Sound, Flint Children's Museum, 11/8
Storytime w/ Miss Carol, Swartz Creek Library, 11/9
Wild Adventures: Birds that leave home, For-Mar Nature Center, 11/9
Knee High Naturalist: Who Pooped in the Park?, For-Mar Nature Center, 11/9 & 11/10
Storytime w/ Miss Katrina, Fenton Library, 11/10
Search and Sniff Game, Flint Children's Museum, 11/10
Book Sale, Baker Park Library, Burton, 11/11
Silly Sights Activities, Flint Children's Museum, 11/11
Flint Art Walk, Downtown Flint, 11/11
Knee High Gardener, Winter Tree Identification, For-Mar Nature Center, 11/12
Mom to Mom Sale, Flushing, 11/12
Flint Town Throwdown, Flint Golf Club, 11/12
Musical Mystery Dinner Theater, Davison Country Club, 11/12
Flint Farmers Market, 11/8, 11/10, 11/12
Robots: The Interactive Exhibition, Sloan Museum, Flint, 9/24/11 - 1/8/12
Mister Roger's Sweater Drive, All Genesee County Libraries, Donate Children's sweaters, November
Silly Senses, Flint Children's Museum, All November!!

If you know of other events going on in the area please comment or email!

Monday, October 31, 2011

Happy Halloween!!

 I hope everyone enjoys trick or treating with the kids!  (Or passing out candy!)  Tomorrow is November, already.  Hope everyone is enjoying the season and don't forget to turn the clocks back on Saturday night!

Halloween Ghosts and Goodies, Crossroads Village, 10/31
Storytime w/ Miss Susan, Davison Library, 10/31
Storytime w/ Miss Carol, Grand Blanc Library, 10/31
Storytime w/ Miss Carol, Swartz Creek Library, 11/2
Silly Senses, Flint Children's Museum, All November!!
Crafts for Kids, Montrose Library, 11/2
Knee High Naturalist: The Nose Knows!, For-Mar Nature Center, 11/2-11/3
Knee High Gardener, Worm Bin, For-Mar Nature Center, 11/4
Robots Fun Night, Sloan Museum, 11/4
Book Sale, Davison and Swartz Creek Libraries, 11/5
Fall Art, Sloan Museum, Flint, 11/5
TIME CHANGE!!  Turn the clocks back Saturday night!
Flint Farmers Market, 11/1, 11/3, 11/5
Robots: The Interactive Exhibition, Sloan Museum, Flint, 9/24/11 - 1/8/12

Sunday, October 23, 2011

A Spooky Week of Fun!

Storytime w/ Miss Susan, Davison Library, 10/24

Storytime w/ Miss Carol, Grand Blanc Library, 10/24
Storytime w/ Miss Carol, Swartz Creek Library, 10/26
Book Sale, Flint Public Library, 10/26 - 10/29
4th Thursday Jazz Walk, Downtown Flint, 10/27
Book Sale, Burton Library, 10/27
Knee High Naturalist: Who's in the Night?, For-Mar Nature Center, 10/26 - 10/27
Storytime w/ Miss Katrina, Fenton Library 10/27
Storytime w/ Miss Carol, Grand Blanc Library, 10/28
Thriller Family Costume Dance, Flint Public Library, 10/28
Bats of the World, Flushing Library, Grand Blanc Library, 10/29
Halloween Celebration, Flint Children's Museum, 10/29
Flint Horror Convention, Masonic Temple, Flint, 10/29
2nd Annual Paranormal Presentation, Flint Library, 10/29
Spooky Tea Party, Fenton Library, 10/29
Halloween Ghosts and Goodies, Crossroads Village, 10/27-10/31
Marvelous Minibeasts, Montrose, Beecher, Swartz Creek Libraries, 10/29
FAN (Family Adventure in Nature), For-Mar Nature Center, 10/29
Flint Farmers Market, 10/25, 10/27, 10/29
Robots: The Interactive Exhibition, Sloan Museum, Flint, 9/24/11 - 1/8/12

**Don't forget to check out the blog from two weeks ago.....a guide to all of the haunted attractions in the area!**

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Apples, Pumpkins and Hayrides.....It's Fall!

Fall has always been my favorite time of year.  It's perfect weather for jeans and a warm sweater, you can cuddle up with a crackling fire, you just can't go wrong!  Plus, there are lots of fun things to do this time of year.  Below are a list of places in the Flint area to enjoy this great season with the kids.




  • Almar Orchard - apples, wagon rides, petting zoo
    Flushing, MI.  Phone: 810-659-6568.  Email: almarapple@aol.com Organic and conventionally-grown apples, cider and wine. Bakery, u-pick apples, wagon rides, family picnic area with petting zoo and many other fun activities. Educational tours and group hayrides by appointment. Open all year, Monday-Saturday, 9 am-6 pm, Sun. 12-6 pm. 1 mile E on M-21 past M-13 to Duffield Rd. 1-three quarters miles N on Duffield Rd.
  • Apple Lane Orchard - apples, pumpkins
    Flint, MI. Phone: 810-736-7622. U-pick and ready-picked apples including many old varieties such as Northern Spy, Tolman Sweet, Grimes Golden and Snow. Also, cider, pumpkins, squash and deer apples. U-pick September 12 until October 25, weekends only. Sales room September 12 until Jan. or Feb, every day. Hours 10 am-6 pm, Sun. 1-6 pm, Closed Sun. after Thanksgiving. Directions: From I-475, Exit 11 (Carpenter Road) Go E on Carpenter Rd. 2 miles to Center Rd. Turn right 200 yards to 4460 N. Center Road, Flint.
  • Blueberry Lane Farms - pumpkins, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, tractor-pulled hay rides, U-pick and already picked, gift shop, concessions / refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, events at your location (call for info)
    13240 Blueberry Lane, Otter Lake, MI 48464. Phone: 810-793-4590. Email: blueberrylanefarms@hotmail.com. Open: Weekends in October.  Directions: I-69 East or West to Davison Exit (State Rd)(M-15) North 12 miles to Lake Road Turn Right Go 2 miles to Blueberry Lane Turn Right You cant miss us!. 
  • Montrose Orchards, Inc. - pumpkins, pumpkins for sale in the shop or farmstand, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, Fall festival, we also have pie pumpkins, tractor-pulled hay rides, Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), gift shop, porta-potties, restrooms, picnic area, face painting, farm animals, birthday parties, weddings and wedding parties, school tours
    12473 Seymour Rd, Montrose, MI 48457. Phone: 810-639-6971. Email: info@montroseorchards.com. Open: See our website for hours of operation, as they change throughout the season.  Directions: 6 miles west of I-75 on M-57 (Vienna Road ) Turn north on Seymour Road 1 mile.  Our Farm Market offers fruits and vegetables, baked goods, apple cider, jams, honey, maple syrup, cherry juice and concentrate, and gift baskets/boxes. 
  • Porters Orchard – pumpkins, apples, hayrides, farm animals
    12060 Hegel Rd. Goodrich, MI 48438. Phone: 810636-7156  Directions: 1-1/2 mi. E of M-15 on Hegel Rd. in Goodrich, which is 7 mi. S of I-69. A family owned Orchard and Farm Market. They press our own cider, bake thier own donuts, and make fresh caramel apples. They offer hayrides to the U-pick apples and pumpkins and have a petting farm and inflatable rides on weekends in Sep and October. Open Aug-Dec, Monday to Saturday 9am-6pm, Sun noon to 6pm.
  • Rich and Billys Pumpkin Patch / Hubble Family Farm - Follows organic practices, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, straw or hay bale maze, tractor-pulled hay rides, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, Bouncy castle or moon bounce, petting zoo, farm animals
    7324 East Mt Morris Rd, Otisville, MI 48463. Phone: 248-249-0992. Open: Call for dates and hours; We will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11am to dark; We will open during the week by appointment only; If you have a large group and would like to come, please call we will be happy to work with you. Directions: Coming from I-75 take Mt. Morris Road east 8 miles. Coming from I-69 take Irish Road north to second four way stop sign which is Mount Morris road, go west you will see the signs about 1 city block up the road. They follow organic practices, but are not seeking certification. Payment: Cash, only. They are open from 11am to dark! Offering a hayride (you never know what you might see) a petting zoo, Hay climb, a bounce house, all for a small fee. And any size pumpkin ($1.00 off with coupon, found in the Genesee county Harled news) Hubble Family Farm offers you a great way to come to the farm and spend quality time with the your family, with a price that is affordable in today's economy. 
  • Spicer Orchards - Apples, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, cherries, plums, pumpkins      10411 Clyde, Fenton, MI, 48430. Phone: 810-632-7692. Email us at: spicerorchard@comcast.net. Usually open just the summer and fall months. Free hayrides on the weekends. You can drive your car right up to the apple trees and pick right there. There is a shop that sells fruit, cider and pies and other desserts as well as little knick-knacks like candles, toys and figurines. There are goats, pigs and other farm animals on the premises. Restrooms are on-site. The facility also gives tours to school groups, and other groups like Boy Scouts, etc. .
  • Trim Pines Farm - Follows organic practices, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, tractor-pulled hay rides,
    4357 E. Baldwin Rd, Holly, MI 48442. Phone: 810-694-3276. Alternate Phone: 810-694-9958. Email: info@trimpines.com. Open: See website for current hours.  Directions: From I-75 Southbound: Exit 108, south on Holly Road to Baldwin Road Left on Baldwin 3/4 mile. From I-75 Northbound: Exit 106, merge onto Dixie Highway for one mile. Left on Baldwin 3/4 mile. They follow organic practices, but are not seeking certification. 

Monday, October 17, 2011

Events for Week of October 17

Sorry all, somehow last weeks schedule missed getting posted!  But here are the events for this week!



Storytime w/ Miss Susan, Flushing Library, 10/17
Storytime w/ Miss Carol, Grand Blanc Library, 10/17
Read to Kermit the Dog, Montrose Library, 10/18
Storytime w/ Miss Susan, Swartz Creek Library, 10/19
Crafts for Kids, Montrose Library, 10/19
Library Book Sale, Flushing, 10/20 - 10/22
Teen Book Club, Montrose Library, 10/20
Fenton 3rd Thursdays, Fenton, 10/20
Storytime w/ Miss Carol, Grand Blanc Library, 10/21
Eerie Experiments, Longway Planetarium, 10/21
Grand Blanc Art Walk, Downtown Grand Blanc, 10/21
Little Beans Jeans Consignment Event!, Fenton, 10/21-10/23
Halloween Ghosts and Goodies, Crossroads Village, 10/21-10/23
Knee High Naturalist: Famous Wildlife, For-Mar Nature Center, 10/19-10/20
Fall Harvest Festival, For-Mar Nature Center, Flint, 10/
Book Sale, Goodrich Library, 10/22
Book Mouse's Halloween Bash, Genesee Valley Mall, Flint 10/22
Curious George and Friends, Genesee Valley Mall, Flint, 10/22
McFarlen Halloween Bash, Grand Blanc Library, 10/22
Pumpkin Painting, Fenton Library, 10/22
Marvelous Minibeasts, Goodrich, Davison, and Burton Libriaries, 10/22
Spooky Science, Longway Planetarium, Flint 10/22
3M Movies, Music and Munchies, Flint Children's Museum, 10/22
Flint City Derby Girls, Rollerhaven, Flint 10/22
Mom 2 Mom Sale, Flint, 10/22
Flint Farmers Market, 10/18, 10/20, 10/22
Robots: The Interactive Exhibition, Sloan Museum, Flint, 9/24/11 - 1/8/12

Friday, October 7, 2011

Haunted October Guide!!

It's that time of year again, the ghosts and goblins are everywhere!  Below is a guide to all of the Haunted adventures in Genesee county. If you know of one that is not on the list please email or comment to share!

13th Realm's Nocturnal Nightmare and Twisted Wicked
Loch Lomond Golf Course
5267 S. Dort Highway, Grand Blanc
Open at dusk  Friday and Saturday in October
$13 each or 2 for $20

Saint Lucifer's Haunted Asylum and 13 Feet Under
Playland Park
5290 S. Dort Highway, Burton
Open Thursday - Sunday at 7 pm
$15 each or 2 for $22 or $25 (Fri. and Sat) (click link for coupon)

Exit 13 Haunted House
6069 S. Saginaw, Mt. Morris
Friday - Sunday at Dusk
$13 per person (click link for coupon)

Spooky Trails
Swartz Creek
Friday - Sunday at Dusk
$9 per person (click link for coupon)

The Crypt Haunted House
4247 S. Dort Hwy, Burton
Friday - Sunday at Dusk
$13 per person

Cell Block 13
G4312 S. Dort Hwy, Burton
$13 per person

Monday, October 3, 2011

It's October Already!

October is here and there is plenty to do this week around Flint!

Storytime w/ Miss Susan, Flushing Library, 10/3
Storytime w/ Miss Carol, Grand Blanc Library, 10/3
Storytime w/ Miss Susan, Clio Library, 10/4
Read to Kermit the Dog, Montrose Library, 10/4
Take Apart Tuesday, Flint Children's Museum, 10/4
Crafts for Kids, Montrose Library, 10/5
Making "Gloop", Flint Children's Museum, 10/5, 10/6, 10/9
Storytime w/ Miss Katrina, Fenton Library, 10/6
Storytime w/ Miss Carol, Grand Blanc Library, 10/7
Knee High Naturalist: Natures Colors, For-Mar Nature Center, 10/5, 10/6
Fall Harvest Festival, For-Mar Nature Center, Flint, 10/8
NCG Family Film Festival, All NCG Theaters, 10/7 - 10/9
Halloween Ghosts and Goodies, Crossroads Village, 10/7 - 10/9
Mom 2 Mom Sale, Lapeer, Burton, 10/8
Fire Prevention for Kids, Fenton Fire Dept., 10/8
Super Hero Storytime, Mt. Morris Library, 10/8
Mother/Daughter Fall Weekend,Camp Copencoinc, Fenton, 10/7 - 10/9
Flint Farmers Market, 10/4, 10/6, 10/8
Porters Orchard Craft Show and Auction, Goodrich, 10/8, 10/9
Robots: The Interactive Exhibition, Sloan Museum, Flint, 9/24/11 - 1/8/12

Friday, September 30, 2011

Let's Drink Dessert!


It's a damp, cool, fall day. There is no better way to enjoy the day or the weekend than with a great fall drinkable dessert! Check out these two great recipes below and enjoy!!

Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
This one isn't served hot, but the flavor will still make you appreciate the season. 
Prep time: 10 minutes
Ingredients
• 1 15-ounce can pumpkin (chilled)
• 1 12-ounce can evaporated milk (chilled)
• 8 ounces vanilla yogurt
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
• Whipped cream, to taste (optional)
Directions
1. Combine pumpkin, milk, yogurt, sugar and spice in a blender; cover.
2. Blend until mixture is smooth.
3. Pour into glasses; top with whipped cream (if desired) and an additional sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. Serves four.

Spiked Apple Pie Punch

This party beverage works well both hot and cold. With one 750-milliliter bottle of grain alcohol, you can serve about 36 people and get them all feeling seasonal with the apple and cinnamon flavors.
 
Prep time: 5 minutes, Cook time: 30 minutes
 
Ingredients
• 1 gallon apple juice
• 1 gallon apple cider
• 3 cups white sugar
• 8 cinnamon sticks
• 1 bottle 190 proof grain alcohol (750 ml)
 
Directions
1. In a large pot, combine juice, cider, sugar and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a boil, then remove from heat and let cool completely.
2. When cool, stir in grain alcohol.
3. Transfer to large serving dish and let guests ladle into cups. Garnish with additional cinnamon sticks or apple slices, if desired

Monday, September 26, 2011

Activities for September 26 - October 2

Lots to do this week, as always!!

Storytime w/ Miss Katrina, Flint Library, 9/26
Storytime w/ Miss Susan, Flushing Library, 9/26
Storytime w/ Miss Carol, Grand Blanc, 9/26
Rock n Roll Painting & Paper Airplanes, Flint Children's Museum, 9/27
Knee High Naturalist: Leaves, Autumn's Painter, For-Mar Nature Center, 9/28, 9/29
Bubblology, Flint Children's Museum, 9/30
Storytime w/ Miss Carol, Grand Blanc, 9/30
NCG Family Film Festival, All NCG Theaters, 9/30 - 10/2
Davison Homecoming Parade, Davison, 9/30
Goodrich Homecoming Parade, Goodrich, 9/30
Mom 2 Mom Sale, Lapeer, Lake Orion, Clarkston, Holly 10/1
Halloween, Sloan Museum, 10/1
Spooktacular Kidney Walk, Crossroads Village, 10/1
Annual Peace Day Celebration, Flint, 10/1
Animal Families, For-Mar Nature Center, Flint, 10/1
R2K Robots, Davison and Clio Library, 10/1
AstroNite (Star Party), Longway Planetarium, Flint, 10/1
Super Hero Storytime, Mt. Morris Library, 10/1
Michigan Renaissance Festival, Holly  10/, 10/2
Porters Orchard Craft Show and Auction, Goodrich, 10/1, 10/2
Robots: The Interactive Exhibition, Sloan Museum, Flint, 9/24/11 - 1/8/12

Please comment or email me if you know of any other events this week!!

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Another Great Dinner Deal!

This tough economy is working in your "date night" favor!  We, again, just have to try different nights of the week sometimes.  Italia Gardens is offering a great Tuesday dinner deal.  It's a 2 for 1 dinner!


TWO FOR TUESDAY at ITALIA GARDENS

Receive a free meal from our select menu with the purchase of an entree and two beverages. Meals are dine in only, absolutely no take outs. Free entree applies to the lower priced of the two. May not be used in conjunction with any other offer.

Italia Gardens, which originated in Flint, now has three locations to serve you.


G-3273 Miller Road
Flint, MI 48507

Phone: (810) 720-4112
Fax: (810) 720-4114


1141 S. State Road
Davison, MI 48423 Phone: (810) 653-6899 Fax: (810) 653-2746


1076 South Lapeer Rd
Oxford, MI 48371 Phone: (248) 628-4112 Fax: (248) 628-5652

Monday, September 19, 2011

Activities for September 19 - 25

There are lots of great things going on this week, plenty to keep you and the kids busy......as if you weren't already!

Storytime w/ Miss Katrina, Flint Library, 9/19
Storytime w/ Miss Susan, Flushing Library, 9/19
Storytime w/ Miss Susan, Clio Library, 9/20
Read to Kermit the Dog, Montrose Library, 9/20
Crafts for Kids, Montrose Library, 9/21
Veggie Tasting, Flint Children's Museum, 9/21
Fossil Find, Flint Children's Museum, 9/21 - 9/24
Knee High Naturalist, Defense! For-Mar Nature Center, Flint, 9/21, 9/22
Grand Blanc Family Fun Fest, Grand Blanc, 9/22-9/25
NCG Family Film Festival, All NCG Theaters, 9/23 - 9/25

Mom 2 Mom Sale, Grand Blanc, 9/24
Mom 2 Mom Sale, Lapeer, 9/24
Horticulture:Espalier, For-Mar Nature Center, Flint, 9/24
R2K Robots, Fenton Library, 9/24
Stomp Rockets, Flint Children's Museum, 9/24
Super Hero Storytime, Mt. Morris Library, 9/24
Marker Robots, Mt. Morris Library & Flint Library, 9/24
Big Band Memories, Davison Library, 9/25
Historical Carriage Town Arts and Crafts Festival, Flint, 9/24, 9/25
Michigan Renaissance Festival, Holly  9/24, 9/25
Great Space Chase Laser Show, Longway Planetarium, Flint, 9/24, 9/25
Robots: The Interactive Exhibition, Sloan Museum, Flint, 9/24/11 - 1/8/12

Do you know of other events in the area?  Comment or email me and I will add them!

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

FREE Movies with the Kiddos!

Looking for a great FREE event with the kids?  How about taking the kids to the movie theater for FREE!  NCG Cinemas is hosting a Family Film Festival for the next month.  Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday they will be offering a movie viewing for free at 10:00am.  Each weekend will offer a different film.  Tickets are on a first come, first serve basis.  This is a great opportunity to watch great children's movies on the big screen.  Below is the scheduled movies for the Film Festival:

September 16, 17, 18: Rango
September 23, 24, 25: Cats and Dogs
September/October 30, 1,2: HOP
October 7, 8, 9: Rio


*Doors open at 9:15 a.m.

Monday, September 12, 2011

Flint Area Family Events for September 12 - 18

Storytime w/ Miss Susan Flushing, 9/12
Storytime w/ Miss Katrina, Flint 9/12
Coupon Club, Burton, 9/12
Storytime w/ Miss Susan, Clio, 9/13
Moveable Type: Letterpress Truck, Flint 9/13
Wheels On The Bus Storytime, Flint 9/14
Knee High Naturalist: Six Legged Wonders, For-Mar, Flint, 9/14 & 9/15
Teen Book Club, Montrose, 9/15
NCG Family Film Festival, FREE MOVIES! All NCG Theater Locations, 9/16 , 9/17 & 9/18
Tale on a Trail, Flint Farmers Market, 9/17
7th Annual Fall Festival, Perani Event Center, Flint
CrimFit Family Event, For-Mar Nature Center, Flint, 9/17
Wood Burning Walking Sticks, For-Mar Nature Center, Flint 9/17
Chalk the Walk, Flint Public Library, 9/17
Marker Robots, Goodrich and Flint Public Library's, 9/17
R2K Rockets, Montrose Public Library, 9/17
Big Band Memories Concert, Grand Blanc Library, 9/18
Michigan Renaissance Festival, Holly  9/17, 9/18
Frankenmuth OktoberFest, Frankenmuth, 9/15-9/18

There are lots of great FREE events going on this week!  Take advantage of all the fun!

Know of other events going on in the Flint area? Comment or email me and we will add them on!

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Dinner and a Movie

When we think of "Date Night", so many of us often think of Friday or Saturday night.  Well, let's mix it up a bit!  I found a great bargain for a Tuesday Date Night.  It is not creative, it is nothing special, but it is a great deal! 

Stop #1
Da Edoardo North, Grand Blanc
Tuesday Dinner Special: 2 for $39.99, includes 2 entrees with salad or soup, bread, dessert and a bottle of house wine!

Stop #2:
NCG Trillum Movie Theater, Grand Blanc
Tuesday Special: $5 Admission for ALL movies!!


I know there are other restaurants in the area that offer 2 for $20 deals on dinner, but if you have never been to Da Edorado's, I highly recommend it.  It is a higher end restaurant with wonderful food.  This is a perfect way to get an amazing meal at a great price!

Tuesday, September 6, 2011

A MUST.....before extinction.

All to soon we will be bundling up and enjoy a new host of activities in Michigan......most of which will involve snow.  Before the cold air has a chance to seek in, enjoy a great summer time activity that is almost extinct. It's the perfect time of year to visit the US 23 Drive-In Theater!  Pack up the kids and take them to enjoy a dying past time.  There is not better movie experience than snuggling up in the car watching the big screen. The theater has 3 screens and is open on Friday and Saturday at 7:30pm, with movies beginning at 8:30 and a second movie at 10:15.

Currently there are 476 open drive-ins that we know of operating around the world. There are 368 in United States and 66 in Canada. There are currently only 9 left in Michigan. At their peak in 1958, there were between 4000 and 5000 drive-ins operating in the United States, 165 of those being in Michigan.


Ever wonder how the Drive-In Theater was created?  Richard Hollingshead Jr., father of the drive-in movie theater, capitalized on the success of the drive-in restaurant, extending the in-your-car-convenience to include the silver screen. He patented the idea three years after the idea's conception. The first drive-in theater opened in Camden, New Jersey in June 1933.

It is obvious that this great family-fun past time is disappearing.  Pack up the family and enjoy a movie outside, right here in Flint!

Monday, September 5, 2011

It's Back to School Time!

The Labor Day weekend always marks the close of summer and the start of a new school year in Michigan.  It is hard to believe, but that time is here already!  It will be a busy week of getting back into the school routine.  Take some time after a busy week to enjoy some great activities this weekend.

First Day of School!, 9/6
NCG Family Film Festival, FREE Movies! 9/9 
Mother Goose Hayride, For-Mar Nature Preserve, 9/10
Mom 2 Mom Sale, Holly, 9/10
Michigan Renaissance Festival, 9/10 & 9/11
Flint Festival of Quilts, Downtown Flint 9/9 - 9/11
**Flint Children's Museum is closed this week***

Know of other activites or events going on in the Flint area?  Comment or email me to spread the word!

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Back to School Bargains

Back to school time is busy and expensive!  New clothes, new shoes, pencils, paper, crayons.......the list goes on and on.  Here are some simple ideas to cut make going back to school easy on the wallet. 

Resale stores have made quite a come back in recent years.  There are lots of great stores to get gently used clothes at bargain prices.  Plato's Closet in Flint offers brand name clothes for kids and teens.  Not only can you buy clothes at great prices, but bring your gently used ones to sell.  The Salvation Army Thrift Stores are another great option.  I recommend the store in Clarkston or Rochester Hills.  These are both located in old grocery stores and offer a large variety of clothing for the whole family.   For closer bargains, try the Goodwill stores in the area.  The Goodwill carries a lot of brand new items that were discontinued from Target stores!  A local great for kids is Waddles and Toddles in Grand Blanc.  This resale shop offers item for babies and kids. 

Not only are these stores great for clothing, but you can often times find school supplies at Salvation Army's and Goodwill's as well.

Make the shopping trip more fun for the kids by turning into a treasure hunt!  See who the first will be to find a great item or who can get the best bargain.   You may not be able to find everything you need, but you might be surprised at what you do find!

Monday, August 29, 2011

Summer's Winding Down, Fall is Gearing Up!!

After another great weekend in downtown Flint with the Crim Festival of Races, I am worn out! But this week brings more great things to do, take a look!

FREE Zumba!, Linden County Park 8 /29
Finger Paints and More, Flint Children's Museum, 8/30
Paper Airplanes and Sand Stars , Flint Children's Museum, 8/31
Nature Program, Max Brandon Park, Flint 9/1
Eruption Day! Flint Children's Museum, 9/1
Rock n' Roll Painting, Flint Children's Museum, 9/2
Treasure Hunt and Fossil Find, Children's Museum, 9/3
Robot Invasion, Sloan Museum, 9/3
Star Party! Longway Planetarium, 9/3 
Grange Fair, Crossroads Village, Flint 9/4
Michigan  Renesiance Festival, Holly  9/4, 9/5
Flint Farmer's Market, Downtown, 8/30, 9/2, 9/4
Laser Beatles, Longway Planetarium, Flint 8/29 - 9/3 (Last Week of Show)


Sorry, a glitch in the blog and it did not post at scheduled time!

Monday, August 22, 2011

Last Chance Summer Fun!!!

It's hard to believe summer is already coming to a close.  In two weeks, school is back in session!  Take advantage of the last moments of summer with great activities around Flint. 

Bike to Your Books, Clio, Davison, Grand Blanc Library's, 8/22
Zumba!, Linden County Park, FREE 8/22
Game Shows in the Park: Family Feud, Flushing, 8/23
Veggie Stamping, Flint Children's Museum, 8/23
Scat, Bluebell Beach, Flint, 8/23
Montrose Library, Kids Crafts, 8/24
Montrose Library, Storytime, 8/25
Flint Children's Museum, Discount Day! 8/25
Live BUGS! Children's Museum, 8/25
Healthy Foods, Picnic Style, Flushing Park 8/25
Family Gaming, Flint Library, 8/26
Pre-Crim Festival 80's Party, Downtown Flint, 8/26
Family Fun Zone, Crim Festival, Downtown Flint, 8/27
Sproutside Safari, Children's Museum, 8/27
Silly Saturday, Bluebell Beach, Flint 8/27
Day Out with Thomas, Crossroads Village 8/26-8/28
St. George Middle Eastern Festival, Flint, 8/26-8/28
Laser Beatles, Longway Planetarium, 8/22 - 8/27
Michigan Renaissance Festival, 8/27 - 8/28

Do you know of other great activities or events in the area?  Post a comment or email me and I will add them on!!

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

It's Harvest Time!

It is hard to believe, but summer is drawing to a close. Before you know it the kids will be back in school and the leaves will be falling.  The great thing about this time of year.......harvest time!  There are so many great fruits and vegetables that are ready to be picked and eaten.  What better way to share this process than to get involved.  There are many great farms in the area that allow you to go out into the fields and pick your own goodies.  Listed below are some local farms to get out to and harvest your own items this summer/fall:

Blueberry Lane Farms, Otter Lake (north of Davison)
Azure Acres, Clio
Almar Orchard, Flushing
Montrose Orchards, Montrose
Spicers Orchard, Fenton

For information on these and more great "You Pick" places, CLICK HERE!

Monday, August 15, 2011

Fairs, Festivals and Cruising!!


It's a busy late summer week in Flint!  Back to the Bricks is getting ready to start their engines to cruise all over town, the Genesee County Fair is in full swing, and plenty of other activities to fill your schedule!

Fenton Library – Storytime – 8/15 @10:30
Genesee County Fair 8/15 – 8/21
Flint Twp. Library – Used Book Sale 8/15 – 8/16
Montrose Jennings Library – Kids Crafts 8/17 @12:30
Montrose Jennings Library – Storytime 8/18 @12:30
Back to the Bricks, Downtown 8/19 – 8/20 Music and Car Show
Flint Public Library – Family Gaming 8/19/11
Tunes at Noon – Downtown Flint, U of M Daily 11:45 – 1:15
Flint Farmers Market – Every Tues, Thurs, Sat 9am
Longway Planetarium – Laser Beatles Mon – Sat at 2pm
Historical Carriage Town Arts and Crafts Fair – 8/20
Children's Museum, Sproutside Celebration! - 8/20
Peraini Arena – Mom 2 Mom Sale – 8/20 @ 9am

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Popsicles for You, Popsicles for Me!

There is no better time for popsicles than summer!  Popsicles are the perfect way to cool off from the summer heat.  It is so easy to make all different kinds of these summer treats, from fruit to yogurt, the options are endless.  Here are two yummy recipes for popsicles.....one for the kids and one for you! 

For the Kids:
Oreo Pudding Popsicles
Ingredients:
2 boxes instant vanilla pudding mix
4 C. milk
1 C. crushed oreo cookies
1-2 C. Whipped Cream
Small disposable cups or popsicle molds
Popsicle sticks or straws

Place pudding and milk in bowl, mix well. Fold in whipped cream. Add crushed cookies and stir well. Put in disposable cups or popsicle molds and add a stick or straw. Freeze at least 3 hrs or overnight. Run cup under hot water for a few seconds to release (be sure not to get the popsicle wet!:)). Enjoy! You can use sugar-free pudding, skim milk, and fat-free whipped topping to make it low-fat and calorie. :)
                     
   

And for Mom:
Mocha Latte Popsicles
2 cups strong cold coffee
2/3 cup sweetened condensed milk
1 1/2 Tablespoon cocoa powder
Whisk together, pour into molds, and freeze.
Cream layer
1/3 cup heavy cream
1 Tablespoon sweetened condensed milk
1/4 teaspoon vanilla
Whisk together, layer, and freeze.  

The cream layer has an ice cream texture that makes this popsicle delightful.  I don't use that word often but it applies here. 




Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Music Downtown on a Dime

If you haven't been to downtown Flint lately, now is a great time to try it.  Summer brings all sorts of events to Flint, many which don't cost a thing.  This week, pack up the kids, pack a lunch and head downtown.   Begin your adventure with a picnic and enjoy 'Tunes at Noon'. This is one of the last weeks for 'Tunes at Noon', so make sure you get out and enjoy the music. Performances are held at the University Pavilion, located at 303 E. Kearsley St. In the case of rain, performances will be held inside the Greater Flint Arts Council (GFAC), 816 S. Saginaw St. 

If you didn't get enough music with your lunch, take a short drive over to the Longway Planetarium for a little more.  Laser Beatles is currently playing at the Planetarum everyday at 2pm.  John, Paul, George, and Ringo provide the music for the psychedelic journey that resurrects the spirit of the late 60s. The Fab Four fill the theater with music and laser light in this exciting and fun show for the whole family. Featuring great Beatles hits like “Revolution”, “Nowhere Man”, “Help”, and tons more, this show is as timeless as the Beatles themselves.  Admission is $5 for Adults and $3 for Children.

Monday, August 8, 2011

Events for the Week of 8/8/11

It's looks like the heat is finally going away, leaving us with a week of great weather in Michigan!  Take advantage of our little cool off with some awesome events in the area! 

8/8 Fenton Library - Storytime @ 10:30
8/9 Burton Library - Coupon Club @ 3pm
8/9  Flint Children's Museum – Discount Day!
8/9  Flint Farmers Market – Storytime @ 10:30
8/10 Montrose Jennings Library - Kids Crafts @12:30
8/11 Montrose Jennings Library - Storytime
8/12 Flint Public Library – Family Gaming
8/13 Mom to Mom Sale, Goodrich
8/8 - 8/13 Longway Planetarium – Laser Beatles, 2pm
8/8 - 8/12 Tunes at Noon – Downtown Flint, U of M Daily 11:45 – 1:15

Know of other great things going on in the area?  Comment or Email me and I will add to the events. 

Enjoy your week!