Barnes & Noble Gift Cards - Holiday

We Have a Winner!

October 30, 2007 | Leave a Comment

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Congratulations to our winner of the From Mom to Me Giveaway — Lindsay McGarity!  Didn’t win?  Don’t worry — we have a great new giveaway coming soon!

I need to go to this!

October 29, 2007 | 1 Comment

The Fayetteville Public Library will host “How to Photograph Your Children” on Wednesday, Nov. 7 at 6:30 p.m. in the Wal-Mart Storytime Room. 

Professional photographer Dale Benfield will offer parents tips for great photography in time for the holidays.

The program is free and open to the public.  For more information, contact the Children’s Desk at 571.2222 x 4370.

  • What:  Photography Class for Parents
  • When: Wednesday, Nov. 7 at 6:30 p.m.
  • Where: Fayetteville Public Library, Wal-Mart Storytime Room

Fall Programs at the Fayetteville Boys&Girls Club

October 29, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The Fayetteville Boys & Girls Club has several fall classes starting in November (including swim lessons!).  I have always thought that swim lessons during the winter or spring would be a great idea so that kids would be able to use their skills all summer long.

Registration for these programs requires Boys & Girls Club membership. Contact Michael Kirk at 479-442-9242 ext. 108 or michael@fayettevillekids.org for more information. 

Judo:  Monday and Wednesdays beginning November 5th (4 week class)

  • Youth: $25, 6:00 – 7:15 p.m.
  • Adults: $35, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Swim Lessons:  (ages 6 months & up) Tuesdays and Thursdays 7:00 – 7:30 p.m. beginning November 6th (4 week session)

  • $20 per session

Healthy Cooking:  (ages 6 & up) Tuesdays from 3:30 – 5:00 p.m. beginning November 6: FREE

Pottery:  (ages 7 & up) Saturdays from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. beginning November 3: FREE

Gymnastics: (ages 6 & up) Tuesdays or Thursdays beginning November 6: FREE

  • Beginner: 6:00 – 6:50 p.m.
  • Intermediate: 7:00 – 7:50 p.m.

Rock Climbing:  Tuesdays 6:00 – 6:45 p.m. beginning November 6: FREE

Walking Tour — Rememberances of Senator J. William Fulbright in Fayetteville

October 28, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Walking (or biking) on the University of Arkansas campus and Dickson Street is one of our favorite family activities.  My family is also into political history.  So, we created this walking tour to combine the two.  I hope you like it!  If anyone has additions or suggestions for this post, use the comments or email me directly.

View Larger Map

REMEMBRANCES OF SENATOR WILLIAM J. FULBRIGHT

Park near the east edge of the University of Arkansas campus.  (There is an inexpensive parking lot on the Southeast corner of Lafayette and Gregg Streets).

Old Main

Walk west on Lafayette Street, crossing Arkansas Avenue, up the steps onto the lawn of Old Main.  At the top of the steps you will find a historical marker briefly describing Senator Fulbright’s life.

  • Senator Fulbright spent his childhood in Fayetteville (mostly in a home on Mt. Nord) where his mother, Roberta, was the editor of the Northwest Arkansas Times.  Fulbright played quarterback on the football team while he was a student at the University of Arkansas.  Less than two decades later, he served as the University’s President.

Let the kids run around on the lawn of Old Main (which is the University’s arboretum).  If the weather is nice, you will likely see college students and others walking dogs, and playing frisbee or touch football on the lawn.  On the sidewalk directly in front of Old Main, notice the names etched into the walkway of the University’s earliest graduating classes.

Fulbright Statute and Peace Fountain

Walk either around or through Old Main to the building’s “back” or west side.  There you will see a statute of Senator Fulbright.

  • A few years after being elected to the US Senate in 1944, Fulbright co-sponsored a resolution censuring Wisconsin’s Senator Joe McCarthy (of Hollywood “black list” and anti-Communist hysteria infamy) — a gutsy move at the time.

To the west of the Fulbright Statute is the Fay Jones-designed Fulbright Peace Fountain.

  • Senator Fulbright chaired the Senate Foreign Relations Committee — which represented the center of national debate over foreign policy and particularly the Vietnam War in the late 60’s and early 70’s. 
  • Of course, Fulbright sponsored the bill that created the Fulbright Program for International Exchange, which has benefited hundreds of thousands of scholars from the US and more than 50 other countries.

Walk to Dickson Street for lunch or a snack.  You have several options, including Smiling Jack’s Sandwich Shop (just behind the Dickson Street Bookshop), the Flying Burrito or Haagen-daz ice cream

Fulbright Grave site

Return to the intersection of Dickson Street and University Avenue.  Head south on University Avenue, a half-block to the historic Evergreen Cemetery.  Turn right on the small alley called Whiteside Drive.  The cemetery (which will be on your left) has two entrances on the north side.  Use the second entrance. 

After you walk through the gates, immediately turn right (West) and pass through the grave sites. 

  • You will get a sense of this cemetery’s historical significance as you pass markers of a few of Fayetteville’s famous names like Lemke, Campbell, and McIlroy

Walking about 40 yards west, you will arrive at the Fulbright family site, and see the stone marking the life of Senator Fulbright who died in 1995 at the age of 90.

If you are interested in learning more about Fulbright, purchase University of Arkansas Professor Randall Woods’ definitive work on the Senator — Fulbright: A Biography.  The first chapters of the book, in particular, provide a good flavor of Fayetteville and Northwest Arkansas in the first half of the 20th century.  You could also borrow from the library or purchase Senator Fulbright’s own book, The Arrogance of Power, which addresses issues of foreign wars and international diplomacy.

Finally, you might decide later to ask for an introduction with the University of Arkansas’ Woods, the Fulbright biographer, or Hoyt Purvis, a long-time aide to the Senator.  Both of these men teach at the University and are a wealth of knowledge in many historical and political subjects, including Senator Fulbright.

Hopefully, this short tour will show you that Bill Clinton was not Arkansas’ first contribution to national politics — but he did get his first job on Capitol Hill from Senator Fulbright in 1966.  Of course, that’s an entirely different story . . .

The Shaolin Warriors and . . . Flat Stanley!!!!

October 28, 2007 | Leave a Comment

I am so excited!  My family is going to see the Shaolin Warriors at the Walton Arts Center next weekend, and we will have a very special guest — Flat Stanley!!  Don’t know about Flat Stanley?  Go here for the official Flat Stanley project homepage, or here to see pictures of other adventures of the Walton Arts Center’s Flat Stanley. 

Shaolin_warriors_2 I cannot tell you how excited my boys are about the Shaolin Warriors.  They love martial arts and cannot wait to see the kung fu up close.  I, on the other hand, am most interested in learning about the lives of the Shaolin monks.

Tickets are still on sale, if you would like to join us!

  • What: Shaolin Warriors
  • When:  Fri-Sat, Nov. 2-3, 2007
  • Where:  Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville

Halloween Activities at Pinnacle Hills Promenade

October 27, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Happy Halloween! Pinnacle Hills Promenade will be hosting family fun Halloween activities on Wednesday, October 31, 2007.

Activities in the Food Pavilion include: ghost stories by the fireplace, with snacks for the children, face painting, magic tricks, juggling, and balloon twisting. Don’t forget to pick up your FREE Trick-or-Treat bags.

Mall-O-Ween at the Northwest Arkansas Mall

October 27, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Bring your little ghouls and golins to the Northwest Arkansas Mall this Halloween for store to store trick-or-treating and costume contest.  The contest is open to ages 0-12 and prizes will be awarded.  Bedford Camera and Video will also be on hand taking pictures of kids in their costumes.  Stop by and capture the memories. 

  • WhatMall-o-ween
  • When:  Wednesday, October 31, 2007 from 6-8 pm
  • Where:  Northwest Arkansas Mall, Fayetteville

Thanks, Go Pickle!

Fayetteville Fire Department’s Pancake Breakfast

October 26, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Don’t miss the Fayetteville Fire Department Annual Pancake breakfast tomorrow, Saturday October 27th, 2007 at Station 1 (on Center St. just off the Square)

  • Open from 5am-11am
  • Cost is $5.00 per person

145th Anniversary of The Battle of Pea Ridge Re-enactment

October 26, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The Civil War reenactment of the Battle of Pea Ridge will celebrate its 145th Anniversary on October 27 & 28, 2007 on 130 acres of pristine land on Little Sugar Creek off Price Coffee Road in Bentonville. (Map).  Renenactors from across the United States are scheduled to participate in this prestigious event.

Spectator Information:

- Battle times are 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday, 1 p.m. on Sunday.
- Several presentations and demonstrations will occur throughout the day on Saturday.
- Period church service is 10 a.m. on Sunday

The specific schedule for the reenactment is as follows:

Saturday, Oct 27th

11:30 Mr. C.W. Webb ‘Medical Equipment of the Civil War”
1 PM Battle
1:45 Symposium featuring: Superintendent John Scott, Dr. William Shea & Dr. William Piston
4:00 Battle
8:00 Dance

Sunday,  Oct 28th

10:00 AM Period Church Service
1 PM Battle

There will be food vendors so that spectators may choose to enjoy breakfast, lunch and/or dinner.

Entry fee is $7/carload. Spectators are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets for viewing of the battles. Stay all day and into the evening.

NWA Renaissance Festival this weekend

October 26, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The second annual NWA Renaissance Festival will be taking place this weekend, October 27 & 28 from 11am to 5 pm at the UofA Pauline Whitaker Equine Pavilion on Hwy 112 in Fayetteville. 

There will be jousting, story time, clowning, music, comedy, games, rides, and archery, plus lots of vendor booths.

Admission is $5 for adults and children over 12; children under 12 are free.

Reader Question: House Cleaning Help

October 26, 2007 | 1 Comment

I recently received this question:

A friend and I are looking for a reputable, detail-oriented cleaning service to clean our homes.  Do you know of a person or service you could recommend?

OK readers, do you have any recommendations for house cleaners in Northwest Arkansas?  Leave them in the comments or email me

I use Diana Zecena.  If any of you would like her phone number, email me and I will forward it to you.

Trick or Treat with the Greeks Halloween Carnival

October 25, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The University of Arkansas Office of Greek Life will host the annual Trick or Treat with the Greeks Halloween Carnival Tuesday, Oct. 30, in the Arkansas Union Ballroom. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children 12 and under.  Free parking is available in the Union parking deck on Stadium Drive.

Each Greek organization will host a table with games including Mummy Bowling, Witch’s Ring Toss and Go Fish.  There will also be face painting, miniature pumpkin painting and snacks.  In addition, members of the University of Arkansas football and basketball team will host a football toss and basketball toss table, respectively.  Razorback mascots and cheerleaders will also be in attendance.

  • What:  Halloween Carnival
  • When:  Tuesday, Oct. 30, 2007, 6:30 p.m.
  • Where:  Arkansas Union Ballroom, University of Arkansas campus
  • Cost:  adults $5, children $3

Fall After School Workshops at the Fayetteville Public Library

October 25, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Fall after school workshops at the Fayetteville Public Library continue every Thursday at 4 p.m.  The workshops are for students in kindergarten through fifth grade.  This is a great after school option for kids.

Workshops during the month of November include

  • music with John Finch of the Suzuki Music School of Arkansas on Nov. 1
  • University of Arkansas international students on Nov. 8
  • science experiments on Nov. 15
  • art with Youth CAN! on Nov. 29

Workshops will continue through Dec. 6. The workshops are free. Registration is required and is available at the children’s desk or by calling 571 2222 x 4370.

St. Joseph’s School Family Fun Fest

October 24, 2007 | Leave a Comment

 I received an email from the principal at St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Fayetteville inviting everyone to the school’s Family Fun Fest this Friday night, October 26, 2007 from 6-9pm.   The festival includes games, inflatables, pony rides, a costume contest and a haunted house.  Hope to see you there!

Kids Talk News

October 24, 2007 | 1 Comment

I just learned about an excellent column on child developmental issues called Kids Talk News.  The author, Maren Schmidt, presents sound advice on issues all families will face.  It is definitely a site worth book marking.  I have already found several ideas I will use. 

Looking for Some Bling for Your Baby?

October 23, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Aclogo2_2Before starting this site, I had no idea how many local moms have online stores.  Just this week, Kerri Chesnutt contacted me about A&C Posh Designs, the business Kerri operates from her home in Rogers.   

From flower hair accessories to flip flops, from blankets to burp cloths — A&C Posh Designs has everything for the girly girl. 

Personally, I am partial to this hot pink tutu and matching flower hat.  I think I just found my niece’s Christmas gift.  Or should I make it a Halloween gift of the Candy Corn tutu? Hmmm . . .

The Snow Dragon at the Walton Arts Center

October 23, 2007 | Leave a Comment

SnowdragonThe Walton Arts Center is presenting a performance of the Snow Dragon on Sunday, October 28 at 2:00 p.m. Ticket prices are $8, $12 and $15 and can be purchased by calling the Walton Arts Center box office at 443-5600 or on www.waltonartscenter.org.  Here is a synopsis of the story, which is appropriate for all ages:

This original story, narrated by two dragons, follows the life of a young boy named Billy, who has everything a boy could desire…until his life changes on New Year’s Eve. He knows that the Magical Snow Dragon is coming to bring him more presents, and Billy’s only job is to gather berries for the Snow Dragon to eat on his Visit.  Billy begins collecting berries for the Snow dragon, quickly realizing that it is difficult work. Instead of finishing his work, Billy finds it easier to take from his friends.  In the end, New Years Eve does not turn out as planned and Billy must face the Dark woods. In the woods Billy begins to grow up because, now he understands the importance of respect.

If you go, you might want to use the Teacher’s Guide to prepare your child for the show.

A New Giveaway!!

October 23, 2007 | 5 Comments

I’m back with our newest giveaway — a $25 gift certificate to the Bentonville consignment store for women and kids — From Mom to Me!   I have not been to the store, but have heard it has tons of like new merchandise at excellent prices.  From Mom to Me also sells Bowlicious hair bows and Zoe & Sprout products.

How do you enter the drawing for the gift certificate?  Email me at allsidesoflife@gmail.com with "From Mom to Me" in the subject line or leave a comment on this post (any comment that is not anonymous –  I have no way to contact anonymous winners!).  You can increase your chances of winning by forwarding information on my website to at least one friend, and copying me on the email (allsidesoflife@gmail.com).  Your name will be entered once for each friend.  So, if you forward my site to 10 friends, your name will be entered in the drawing 11 times. 

All entries must be received by noon on Tuesday, October 30, 2007.  The drawing will be held later that day.

Thanks for reading All Sides of Life — I hope you enjoy the Giveaway!

10th Annual Hay Day

October 22, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The United Way of Northwest Arkansas is sponsoring its 10th Annual Hay Day on Thursday, October 25, 2007.  Activities include

  • hay rides
  • games
  • pumpkin alley & auction
  • autumm photos
  • costume parade

Live music will be provided by Ultra Suede and Crossfire.  Events also include a Razorback pep rally featuring the cheer squad and hog mascots.

  • What:  Hay Day
  • When:  Thursday, October 25, 2007 from 6-9pm
  • Where:  4055 South Old Missouri Road, Springdale (access parking via Ivey Road)

Public Hours at the Community Imagination Studio

October 22, 2007 | Leave a Comment

YouthCAN!’s Community Imagination Studio offers public studio hours every Saturday from 10am-4pm where the studio opens its doors to all ages to use the studio space and art supplies to paint, draw, make collages, or get creative with clay. 

A staff artist will be on hand to help guide you. Cost is $5 per participant.  The Community Imagination Studio is located at 818 N. Sang Ave. in Fayetteville. 

For more information about this program or other offerings such as birthday parties or Mommy and Me art classes, please visit http://www.communityimaginationstudio.org/ or contact Alison Carter at alison@artexplosions.org.

Halloween Fun Day at the Fayetteville Boys & Girls Club

October 22, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The Fayetteville Public Schools are out on Friday, October 26, 2007 for parent teacher conferences.  If you are looking for a fun childcare option on that day, consider the Halloween Fun Day at the Fayetteville Boys & Girls Club.  Here’s the schedule –

  • 12:00 arrival
  • 12-1:30 lunch and free play (send lunch with your child)
  • 1:30-3:15 carnival fun
  • 3:15 costume contest
  • 4:00 Halloween movie
  • 5:30 child pick up

Children should dress in costume.  The carnival fun includes musical chairs, mummy wrap, spooky bingo, haunted tent, face painting, and pin the nose on the pumpkin.

  •  
    • What:  Halloween Fun Day
    • When:  Friday, October 26, from noon to 5:30
    • Where:  Fayetteville Boys and Girls Club
    • More information:  www.fayettevillekids.org or 479.442.9242

Trick or Treating and Pet Costume Contest

October 19, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The Fayetteville Square is perfect for trick or treating.  There will be candy, games, pictures, a costume contest and even a pet costume contest!

  • What:  6th Annual Trick-or-Treat On the Square
  • When:  Wednesday, October 31st, 2007; 3:00-5:00 pm
  • Where:  On the Fayetteville Square
  • Info:  Kelly at the Convention and Visitors Bureau:  521-5776

We Have a Winner!!!

October 17, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Congratulations to Theresa Norris, the winner of two Zoe&Sprout items!  If you didn’t win, don’t worry.  Just head over to Zoe & Sprout and order a T or two of your own.  The prices are reasonable, and the clothes adorable.

Thanks to everyone who participated in the giveaway, and stay tuned . . . I have other great giveaways lined up.  As always, thank you for reading All Sides of Life!

Halloween Storytime at the Fayetteville Public Library

October 16, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The Fayetteville Public Library will host a Halloween Storytime on Tuesday, Oct. 30, 2007 at 6:30 p.m. in the Walker Community Room.

Youth librarians will read stories, and the North Arkansas Flute Choir will play spooky music during the program before leading a parade through the library.

The event is free and open to preschool age children and their families. Attendees are encouraged to come in costume.

Grand Opening of the Children’s Garden at the Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks

October 16, 2007 | Leave a Comment

This event looks like so much fun!!!

Celebrate the opening of the Children’s Garden with a day of fun activities for kids! Professional photographs in the pumpkin patch. Fayetteville Fire Department firetruck and safety wagon. Free McGruff digital child IDs in partnership with Let’s Bring Them Home. Educational activities in the Children’s Garden.

Dragonfly ID Class at the Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks

October 16, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Sorry for the late notice, but I just learned about this today:  on Wednesday (tomorrow), October 18, 2007 from 6:00 to 7:00 pm, there will be a dragonfly identification class for children and adults at the Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks in Fayetteville.  Here’s the information:

You’ve seen them darting across the Great Lawn or dipping to the surface of a water feature for a quick drink. Dragonflies are jewels of the Garden, and they come in every color of the spectrum. In this class, published dragonfly photographer Robert Thomas will lead participants in discovering and identifying the many dragonflies and damselflies that call the Garden home. This class will be of interest to children and adults. The class will take place near water features in the Garden. Handouts will be provided. $5 members/ $10 non-members. Reserve your place by calling 756-2620

NWA Lacrosse Club for 5th-12th grade boys

October 12, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The YMCA of NWA is starting a Lacrosse Club for 5th-12th grade boys.  The Season Sign up and Players Clinic is set for 2pm, Saturday, October 13th, 2007 at the Lincoln Jr. High Practice Field in Bentonville. 

Weekly Recap

October 12, 2007 | Leave a Comment

I’ve posted a lot this week, and want to make sure you didn’t miss anything:

  1. First, donate a children’s book and get a free Starbucks Coffee (Pinnacle Hills and Nelson’s Crossing locations through Nov. 5)
  2. Next, check out these two great local businesses, Painted Toast (for those who wondered, I do know how to spell stationery!) and Photo Alli.
  3. Then, consider these Halloween options — from the UofA Pumpkin Patch Fall Carnival, to other Pick Your Own Pumpkin Patches, and a Reading Rally and Halloween Costume Contest at the Fayetteville Public Library.
  4. And, don’t forget the parent seminar on Teaching your Teen to Drive.
  5. Finally, Free football and baseball clinics and other festivities at Baum Stadium on Saturday.

Before you go, be sure to enter the current All Sides of Life Giveaway.  You could win two Zoe&Sprout Tshirts or onesies!

Have a great weekend!

FREE Football and Baseball Clinics with Former Razorbacks and More, this Saturday, October 13, 2007

October 11, 2007 | Leave a Comment

This just in — I’ve always wanted to say that! ;)

Pre-game tailgating will have added sparkle as “Day at the Diamond” offers special activities designed for fans headed to the Auburn-Arkansas football game on Saturday, Oct. 13.  In addition to an opportunity to help LifeSource International, a non-profit organization benefiting local families in need, Razorback enthusiasts can participate in fun and games while also getting a sneak peek at the 2008 Razorback Diamond Hogs.   

LifeSource is partnering with the Razorback baseball team to bring added festivities to game three of the intra-squad Red and White World Series.  Coach Dave Van Horn will open Baum Stadium’s Hog Pen with free admission to all Hog fans, and attendees are encouraged to bring donations for LifeSource.

Many special activities are planned starting with two special sports clinics for kids.  One-hour long baseball and football clinics will begin at 10:00 a.m. and will be taught by former Razorback players. The clinics will teach young athletes skills necessary to excel in their preferred game alongside their favorite Razorbacks.                              

Free hot dogs and drinks will be given out to event participants from 11:00 a.m. to noon as they get ready to cheer on the Razorback baseball team in game three of their intra- squad Red and White World Series. Following the game, former and current players will be available to sign autographs for the fans.

GIVEAWAY: Two Free Zoe & Sprout Products!! — UPDATED

October 11, 2007 | 22 Comments

Remember the adorable Zoe&Sprout onesies and T-shirts I posted about recently?  They are the subject of the newest All Sides of Life giveaway.  One lucky winner will get to choose two Zoe&Sprout products.  Leave a comment on this post, or email me directly at allsidesoflife@gmail.com and you could choose from some of their adorable Holiday designs like:

Witch_duck

witch duck

Dracula_duck 

Dracula duck

You can see several other holiday and non-holiday designs on the Zoe&Sprout website

Your entry must be received by noon on Wednesday, October 17, 2007.  The drawing will be held later that day.  So, check  back to see if you won.

How do you enter?  Email me at allsidesoflife@gmail.com with "Zoe&Sprout" in the subject line or leave a comment on this post (any comment that is not anonymous –  I have no way to contact anonymous winners!).  You can increase your chances of winning by forwarding my website to at least one friend, and copying me on the email (allsidesoflife@gmail.com).  Your name will be entered once for each friend.  So, if you forward my site to 10 friends, your name will be entered in the drawing 11 times. 

Thanks for reading All Sides of Life — I hope you enjoy the Giveaway!

UPDATED:  This giveaway runs through October 17.  Thanks, Becky!

Reading Rally (and Halloween Costume Contest!) at the Fayetteville Public Library

October 11, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The Fayetteville Public Library will host a Reading Rally on Saturday, October 20, 2007 from 2-4pm.

Activities will include story-telling, entertainment, prizes, and a Halloween costume contest!

  • What:  Reading Rally
  • When:  Saturday, October 20, 2007 from 2-4pm
  • Where:  Fayetteville Public Library, Walmart Storytime Room and Children’s Library

Free Parent Seminar: Teaching Your Teen to Drive

October 11, 2007 | 1 Comment

In conjunction with National Teen Driver Safety Week, the Driving Academy of Northwest Arkansas is hosting two free 1-hour parenting seminars titled Teaching Your Teen to Drive.

The first seminar will be held at the Northwest Arkansas Community College in Bentonville (Walmart auditorium, Shewmaker Center) on Thursday, October 25, 2007 at 6pm.

The second seminar will be held in the student center at the Northwest Technical Institute in Springdale (South of Parsons Stadium, across Hwy 265 from the Springdale Municipal Airport).

Find a Pick Your Own Pumpkin Patch Near You

October 10, 2007 | Leave a Comment

I found a really cool website called Pumpkin Patches and More that lists pick-your-own pumpkin patches and corn mazes throughout the US. 

Here’s the Arkansas page.  No patches are listed for Benton County, but two are listed for Washington County.  Don’t go without calling first to be sure the patch is open!

UofA Pumpkin Patch Fall Carnival: Oct. 29-30, 2007

October 10, 2007 | 1 Comment

Looking to get in the Halloween spirit?  You might try the Pumpkin Patch Fall Carnival on the University of Arkansas campus. 

The Carnival will be held on the Union lawn from 5-7pm on October 29th and 30th, 2007.  It looks like fun!

Children will be able to pick a pumpkin to paint  There will also be face painting, games and more.  Great for all ages! 

All proceeds benefit the University of Arkansas’s Infant Development Center.

Photo Alli

October 9, 2007 | 1 Comment

 I was recently introduced to Allison Rupp, a local photographer whose work you can view on her website, Photo Alli.

I love her motto — true. to life.  Instead of making a child’s portrait a formal, grand occasion, she captures the true expressions of the child in a comfortable, familiar environment.  Browse the photos on her website.  I think you’ll be impressed.

Painted Toast: A Locally Owned Stationery Website

October 9, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Nav_paintedtoastAli DeJohn from Painted Toast recently contacted me about her new website. 

In case you didn’t know, Painted Toast is a local company that produces adorable stationery products, including note cards and gift cards (you can see them all online). 

If you don’t find exactly what you want, Painted Toast also provides custom illustrations, announcements, and invitations

Wondering where the name Painted Toast came from?  You can find the story here.

FREE Starbucks Coffee, Anyone?

October 8, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The Junior League of Northwest Arkansas is partnering with Northwest Arkansas Starbucks locations to host a children’s book drive from October 8 through November 5, 2007.

If you donate a new or gently used children’s book at the Pinnacle Hills Starbucks in Rogers or the Nelson’s Crossing Starbucks in Fayetteville, you will receive a free Starbucks tall coffee (coffee of the day, regular or decaf).

The book drive supports the Junior League’s THAT’S MY BAG program that provides overnight bags to children displaced from their homes and placed in temporary care due to abuse or neglect. With your help, a children’s book can be included in each bag along with clothing, toiletries and a plush toy.

Two New Parks Opening in Fayetteville

October 7, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Looking for an easy dinner and some outdoor fun?  Attend the grand openings for Fayetteville’s newest parks:

  • The grand opening of Salem Park in Fayetteville is scheduled for October 8th  2007 at 5:30.  Hot dogs will be served.
  • The grand pening of Harmony Pointe Park is scheduled for October 18th at 5:30.  Hamburgers will be served.

Here’s a pdf map detailing the locations of the parks.  Download MapsParks.pdf

Reader Poll: Baby’s First Haircut

October 7, 2007 | 4 Comments

I received a reader question from Lindsay asking for recommendations on the best place to get a child’s hair cut in Northwest Arkansas.  Specifically: 

I have a 14 1/2 month old who needs his FIRST haircut. I of course think this is a monumental occasion, so I want to take him somewhere that will A) do a good job B) be comfortable and fun for him and C) won’t mind me taking lots of pictures and making a big deal out of it! The problem is, I have no idea where to go!

My stylist doesn’t do kids hair but she said she heard of a place–she thought in Bentonville–that caters to small children. They give a certificate for the first haircut and the chairs are animal shaped. It sounds like the perfect place, I just have no idea what it’s called or where it is! The phone book was no help at all. So, I thought maybe you could poll the moms of NWA and see where is the best place to get a child’s hair cut???? 

Those who know me and my children realize that haircutting is not given the priority it deserves in my house — in fact, my mother always gets my boys haircuts when she comes to visit! 

So, I am asking my readers for recommendations.  Click here to leave a recommendation in the comments or email me directly at allsidesoflife@gmail.com

25% OFF Clothing At Once Upon A Child!

October 4, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Once Upon a Child is one of my favorite consignment stores, so I was very excited when Amy Brand emailed to tell me about the anniversary sale that’s going on now.

Here’s the scoop:  All clothing is 20% off.  AND, if you print this coupon, you will get an additional 5% off, for a total discount of 25%!

If you have never been to Once Upon a Child, this is a great time to go.  They have all kinds of previously owned kids stuff.  If you are a regular, consider this discount an added bonus.

Feel free to forward the coupon to your friends.  The offer expires on October 20, 2007.

Once Upon a Child is located in the Fiesta Square Shopping Center in Fayetteville.

Gymboree Play & Music is Coming to NWA!

October 2, 2007 | Leave a Comment

I recently learned that Gymboree Play & Music is coming to Park Place Plaza in Bentonville.  Classes begin November, but you can get a sneak peak of the classes this Saturday, Oct 6th from 10-11 am at the Bentonville square. 

They will also be offering discounts on memberships and other giveaways at this preview event.  Go to gymboreeclasses.com for information on the program.

Gymboree Play and Music of Northwest Arkansas,
1401 SE Walton Blvd, Suite 209,
Bentonville, AR
72712 US
Phone: (479) 224-6311

Halloween Activities in Northwest Arkansas

October 1, 2007 | Leave a Comment

What other events have I missed?  Add them in the comments, or email me directly at allsidesoflife@gmail.com

Haunted Battlefield Tour, Oct. 27, Prairie Grove Battlefield State Park, Prairie Grove. From 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., tour groups will be guided in front of the historic Borden House along part of the park’s walking trail and into the valley where the heaviest fighting occurred during the Battle of Prairie Grove. Chances are good that there will be a few surprises along the way. Tours depart every 20 to 30 minutes. The last tour will start around 10 p.m. Parking is available at the east entrance of the Borden House. Admission is free, but passes will be required for specific tour departure times and are available the day of the tour. (479) 846-2990; www.ArkansasStateParks.com.

Haunted Hayride, Oct. 27, Devil’s Den State Park, West Fork. This scary hayride is open to campers, cabin guests and anyone visiting the park for the day. (479) 761-3325; www.ArkansasStateParks.com.

12th annual Howl-O-Ween Spooktacular, Oct. 27, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge, Eureka Springs. See lions, tigers, cougars and other animals at nighttime. Activities will include a haunted hayride, trail of terror, children�s costume parade and contest, and storytelling. Concessions available. If you visit the refuge during the day, admission to the party is free. Admission $15 for adults, $10 for children. (479) 253-5841; www.tigers.tc.

23rd annual Goblin Parade, Oct. 31, historic downtown district, Rogers. Children in costume follow a planned route through downtown Rogers and “trick-or-treat” businesses along the way. Free. (479) 936-5487; www.mainstreetrogers.com.

Trick or Treat on the Square, Oct. 31, downtown square, Fayetteville. Children, dressed in costume, trick-or-treat the merchants on the historic square from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. There will be a new pet costume contest. Free. (479) 521-5776; www.experiencefayetteville.com.

Event listings from the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism.