Barnes & Noble Gift Cards - Holiday

We Have a Winner and a Buy One Get One Free Offer for Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol

November 30, 2007 | 1 Comment

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JacobmarleyCongratulations to Andrea Jobe, the winner of 4 tickets to TheatreSquared’s production of Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol.  Thanks to all who entered!

Even if you did not win, I have a great offer for you — Buy One Get One Free Jacob Marley Tickets!  All Sides of Life readers will receive one free ticket for each adult ticket purchased for the show, subject to availability.  Just mention this site when you purchase your tickets at the door or by calling the TheatreSquared box office at 571-2728.

The show is playing at the Walton Arts Center’s Nadine Baum Studios in Fayetteville.  Tickets are $22 for adults, $10 for students.  The remaining show dates are:

Friday, November 30 @ 8pm
Saturday, December 1 @ 8pm
Sunday, December 2 @ 2pm

Thursday, December 6 @ 8pm
Friday, December 7 @ 8pm
Saturday, December 8 @ 8pm
Sunday, December 9 @ 2pm

The show is recommended for adults and older kids (at least 10 years of age).  Go to the TheatreSquared webpage for more details.  Happy Holidays and thanks for reading All Sides of Life!

Looking to give your children a broader view of the holiday season?

November 28, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The Bentonville and Fayetteville Public Libraries have scheduled Chanukkah related events.

The children’s librarian at the Bentonville public library will be presenting a special event Chanukkah story and craft time on Saturday Dec. 1st at 2:00. (thanks, Lauren!)

Also, the Fayetteville Public Library will host a Hanukkah celebration for children and families on Saturday, Dec. 8 at 2 p.m. in the Wal-Mart Storytime Room.  Young members of Temple Shalom in Fayetteville will discuss how Hanukkah is celebrated, including listening to music, playing games and making a craft.  Registration is required. Sign up at the Children�s Desk. For more information, call 571.2222 x 4370

Create a Family Trivial Pursuit Game or Make Your Own Cookie Cutters at the Community Imagination Studio

November 28, 2007 | 1 Comment

YouthCAN!’s Community Imagination Studio hosts Family Days on the first Saturday of each month.  On Family Days the Studio is opened to the public for NWA families to participate in family themed art projects.

The next Family Day is Saturday December 1st from 10-4pm. On that day at the Studio, families can prepare for the winter holiday season by creating a Family Trivial Pursuit game, making their own cookie cutters, or painting an original painting to give as a gift. You can choose one project, or participate in all three!

Family Day events are free for all participants and no pre-registration is required. The Community Imagination Studio is located at 818 N. Sang Ave., in Fayetteville. Contact Alison Carter for more information at alison@artexplosions.org, 442-8585, or visit www.communityimaginationstudio.org.

New Giveaway! Four Tickets to Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol

November 26, 2007 | 4 Comments

TheatreSquared’s most recent show, Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol, opened this weekend at the Nadine Baum Studios to great reviews.  Here’s a taste of what you will see:

“Scrooge? I have to redeem old Scrooge? The one man I knew who was worse than I was? Impossible!” So begins the “real” story behind Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol�the tale of Jacob Marley’s heroic behind-the-scenes efforts to save old Scrooge’s soul and, in the process, his own. Aided by a so-called Bogle, a malicious hell-sprite with an agenda of his own, their hilarious journey takes them from the Jaws of Death to the Mouth of Hell�and beyond! This irreverent, funny, and ultimately deeply moving story retells Dickens’ classic with warmth and infectious zest. A thrilling performance that’s sure to become a holiday classic for generations to come!

The show is recommended for ages 10 and up (a little longer and not as much action as the shows for younger kids).  The remaining show dates are:

Thursday, November 29 @ 8pm
Friday, November 30 @ 8pm
Saturday, December 1 @ 8pm
Sunday, December 2 @ 2pm

Thursday, December 6 @ 8pm
Friday, December 7 @ 8pm
Saturday, December 8 @ 8pm
Sunday, December 9 @ 2pm

Tickets are $22 for adults, $10 for students and can be purchased online or by calling the TheatreSquared box office at 571-2728.

Now for the Giveaway!  We are giving away 4 tickets to Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol.  The tickets can be used at any of the remaining shows with available seats. 

How do you enter?  Leave a comment on this post saying why you want to see the show or email me at allsidesoflife@gmail.com with “Jacob Marley” in the subject line.  You can increase your chances of winning by telling your friends about All Sides of Life and copying me on the email (allsidesoflife@gmail.com).  Your name will be entered once for each friend.  So, if you email 10 friends about All Sides of Life, your name will be entered in the drawing 11 times.  Entries must be received by noon on Thursday, November 29.  The giveaway will be held later that day. 

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

 

Happy Holly Days at the Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks

November 25, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Enjoy local youth choirs and handbells in the magical setting of the Garden lit with holiday lights. Have a cup of hot cocoa and cookies with Santa. Nature crafts for kids. Free!

  • What:  Happy Holly Days
  • When:  December 2, 2007, 4 to 6 pm
  • Where:  Botanical Gardens of the Ozarks, Fayetteville
  • Cost:  FREE! 

Don’t Feel Like Cooking Breakfast?

November 25, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Let the Legion do the cooking for you!

On the first Saturday of every month, the American Legion cooks waffles, pancakes, sausage, eggs, biscuits and gravy, milk for the little ones, coffee, OJ, and fresh fruit.  All proceeds go to support the American Legion programs.

  • Whata good, wholesome breakfast
  • When: The first Saturday of each month from 7-10am
  • WhereAmerican Legion Post 100, 711 W. Persimmon St. (Across from the Post Office)
  • Donations: Adults $5.00, Under 11 $2.00, Family Max $13.00 (Family Mom/Dad/Kids)

Bentonville’s “It’s Magical” Parade

November 24, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The 2007 Bentonville Winter Wonderland Christmas Parade will take place Saturday, Dec. 1 (inclement weather date: Saturday, Dec. 8) on and around the square at 11 a.m.

The parade will have everything it takes to make a great event:  marching bands, city dignitaries, girl and boy scout troops, car clubs, beauty queens, school, church and business decorated floats, cheer leading and dance squads.  Be part of the fun!

  • What:  Bentonville Annual Christmas “It’s Magical Parade
  • When:  Saturday, Dec. 1 at 11 a.m
  • Where:  The Square, Bentonville

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

November 23, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The_best_christmas_pageant_ever_2Many families, I’m sure, participate in very refined holiday events.  But one of my family’s favorite tradition is the reading of the Best Christmas Pageant Ever.  Those Herdman kids make my children seem like perfectly behaved angels even on their worst of days.

This year I plan to take my children to see the Best Christmas Pageant Ever at the Arts Center of the Ozarks.  I also found this online teachers guide with questions and activities related to the book.

  • What:  The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
  • When:  Friday Dec. 7 through Sunday, Dec. 9, 2007
  • Where:  The Arts Center of the Ozarks
  • Cost:  $5-$10 dollars per ticket 

Pet & Family Photo Night with Santa

November 22, 2007 | 1 Comment

A new event to the Lights of the Ozarks on the Fayetteville Square is “Pet & Family Photo Night with Santa” presented by Bedfordss Camera and Video. In Fayetteville pets are a big part of families and this night you can bring the whole family to the square to get your photo made with Santa.

For $15 you will receive a 5×7 photo and will be given the opportunity to order more from Bedford�s. Proceeds from this event will benefit the Fayetteville Animal Shelter who will also be on hand that night with animals for adoption.

  • What:  Pet & Family Photo Night with Santa
  • When:  Thursday November 29th, 2007 from 6-8pm
  • Where:  The Square, Downtown Fayetteville

Sing-A-Long Messiah at the Walton Arts Center

November 21, 2007 | 1 Comment

What better way for a family to get into the Christmas spirit than a sing along of Handel’s Messiah and other holiday favorites?  Don’t know the words?  Don’t worry.  Musical scores will be available for purchase in the lobby before the show.

  • What:  Sing-A-Long Messiah
  • When:  Sunday, December 2, 2007 at 2pm
  • Where:  Walton Arts Center, Fayetteville
  • Tickets:  $12 adults, $8 kids

We Have A Winner!

November 17, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Congratulations to Heather Ayers, the winner of a free session of Strollerfit Restore the Core classes — just in time for the holidays!

Thanks to everyone for participating and reading All Sides of Life.

Christmas Parade of the Ozarks

November 17, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Welcome the Christmas season in downtown Springdale at the 11th Annual Christmas Parade of the Ozarks.  The parade begins at Parson’s Stadium and continues west down Emma Avenue.

  • What:  Christmas Parade of the Ozarks
  • When:  Saturday, November 24, 2007 at 6pm
  • Where:  Downtown Springdale

The Nutcracker Ballet at the Arend Arts Center

November 17, 2007 | Leave a Comment

What would Christmas be without the Nutcracker?  This year marks Classical Youth Ballet of Northwest Arkansas’ fourth annual production of the timeless Christmas fantasy of Clara and her journey to the “Land of Sweets.”  The performance will include both professional and amateur dancers.

  • WhatThe Nutcracker
  • When:  Saturday, Dec. 1 at 7:30pm and Sunday, December 2 at 3pm
  • Where:  Arend Arts Center on the Bentonville High School campus
  • Cost:   Tickets to the performance range from $5 to $20 and are available by calling (479) 464-0150 or by visiting the Classical Ballet Academy, 1106 10th Street, Bentonville any Saturday between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. 

Deadline to enter the Strollerfit Giveaway — Tomorrow (Friday!)

November 15, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Don’t forget to enter the drawing for the giveaway of one session of Strollerfit of Northwest Arkansas Restore the Core classes! 

Your entries must be received by noon tomorrow (Friday).

Breakfast with Santa at the Arts Center of the Ozarks

November 15, 2007 | Leave a Comment

A $15 ticket includes:

  • breakfast of scrambled eggs, bagels with toppings, “pigs in pancake,” sausage and biscuits, juice, milk, (& coffee for big kids)
  • special visit with Santa
  • 4×6 photo of your child with Santa
  • ornament craft
  • photo frame craft
  • helping Mrs. Claus make Christmas cookies
  • Chance to win an “American Girl” doll or a Nintendo DVS!

Seating is limited, so reserve now. 

Candy Cane Lane Holiday Market begins this Thursday!

November 14, 2007 | Leave a Comment

I love holiday markets.  They provide an amazing number of gift choices all in one place.  And, the festive atmosphere always gets me in the holiday spirit.  The Junior League of Rogers-Bentonville’s Candy Cane Lane Holiday Market will be no exception. 

Specialized retailers from Northwest Arkansas and across the country will be selling their merchandise at the Candy Cane Lane Holiday Market.  You can purchase Flaherty’s gourmet toffees, Darby Creek’s gourmet soups, Junior League cookbooks, distinctive jewelry – sterling, pearl, precious stones, children’s items, ladies’ clothing and accessories, designer handbags, personalized gifts, seasonal decorations and much more.  Look for great gift selections from your favorite area retailers - B. LaRue, For Me & My House, Poor Richard’s Art , The Rabbit’s Lair, Kate Austin Jewelry and Gifts, Copper Pig  and Ebeez. 

Tickets for Candy Cane Lane can be purchased in advance at B. LaRue (Bentonville), Kate Austin Jewelry & Gifts (Rogers), Copper Pig/Ebeez (Fayetteville), or by calling the ticket hotline, (479) 256-9351.  Tickets will also be sold at the door.

  • What:  Candy Cane Lane Holiday Market
  • When:  Nov. 15-17 — Thurs. 6-9pm, Fri. 10am-9pm, Sat. 9am-4pm
  • Where:    Bentonville Plaza, 9th Floor (off Walton Blvd across the street from the Wal-Mart Home Office)
  • Cost:  $5.00.   

Winter Wonderland Multicultural Festival in Bentonville

November 13, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Bentonville’s Winter Wonderland includes a Multicultural Festival this Saturday from noon to 4pm.  The festival will include booths set around the square featuring customs and traditions from other countries.  The kids will love having their passport stamped as they taste wonderful foods and participate in hands-on experiences.

  • What:  Multicultural Festival
  • When:  Saturday, Nov. 17 from 12 - 4 p.m
  • Where:  The Square in Bentonville

Lighting of the Bentonville Square

November 13, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The Lighting of the Square has been a tradition celebrated for years in downtown Bentonville as families, visitors and community members gather to listen to traditional holiday music performed by local musicians, school and church choirs as the season begins.

  • What:  Lighting of the Square
  • When:  Saturday, Nov. 17 at 5:30 p.m.
  • Where:  The Square, downtown Bentonville

Peter Pan

November 13, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Who doesn’t love Peter Pan?  Now the Tony Award winning musical is coming to the Walton Arts Center.  Here’s the scoop:

Don’t miss a beat of this fun-filled musical adventure; complete with lost boys, high-stepping pirates, the delightfully dangerous Captain Hook and the perennial charm of the boy who won’t grow up - Peter Pan! A classic tale of youth, joy and freedom - all captured in a lavish new production of the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical. Fly with Peter to the “second star to the right” and join the zany antics and the wistful wonderment of Neverland. It’s a magical journey you - and your family - will never forget!

The show runs Friday, December 14 through Sunday, December 16, 2007.  Tickets may be purchased at the WAC website or by calling the box office at 479-443-5600.

The North Pole in Downtown Bentonville

November 13, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Saturday, December 8th, from 11 AM – 2 PM

  • Mrs. Claus reads her favorite Christmas stories in School Squared
  • Mr. Claus (Santa) visits with children inside Phatt Tire (Once Upon A Time Photography on site for nominal fee for pictures with Santa)
  • Free children’s’ crafts inside Fusion Gallery Horse
  • Carriage rides available downtown for a fee
  • Free pony rides and camel rides- with a charge of $5 per camel ride

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever

November 13, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The_best_christmas_pageant_ever_2Many families, I’m sure, participate in very refined holiday events.  But one of my family’s favorite tradition is the reading the Best Christmas Pageant Ever.  Those Herdman kids make my children seem like perfectly behaved angels even on their worst of days.

This year I plan to take my children to see the Best Christmas Pageant Ever at the Arts Center of the Ozarks.  I also found this online teachers guide with questions and activities related to the book.

  • What:  The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
  • When:  Friday Dec. 7 through Sunday, Dec. 9, 2007
  • Where:  The Arts Center of the Ozarks
  • Cost:  $5-$10 dollars per ticket 

The Nutcracker

November 13, 2007 | Leave a Comment

What would Christmas be without the Nutcracker?  This year marks Classical Youth Ballet of Northwest Arkansas’ fourth annual production of the timeless Christmas fantasy of Clara and her journey to the “Land of Sweets.”  The performance will include both professional and amateur dancers.

  • WhatThe Nutcracker
  • When:  Saturday, Dec. 1 at 7:30pm and Sunday, December 2 at 3pm
  • Where:  Arend Arts Center on the Bentonville High School campus
  • Cost:   Tickets to the performance range from $5 to $20 and are available by calling (479) 464-0150 or by visiting the Classical Ballet Academy, 1106 10th Street, Bentonville any Saturday between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. 

Happy Holly Days

November 13, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Enjoy local youth choirs and handbells in the magical setting of the Botanical Gardens lit with holiday lights. Have a cup of hot cocoa and cookies with Santa. Nature crafts for kids. Free!

Book Signing: The Changing Colors of Amos by John Kinyon

November 13, 2007 | 2 Comments

The Springdale Public Library will celebrate Children’s Book Week with a public reception, author reading and book signing on Saturday, November 18, 2:00 - 4:00 pm.  The event is free and registration is not required.

In addition to refreshments and children’s game, author John Kinyon will be on hand to read his new book, The Changing Colors of Amos.  Amos is a leprechaun who changes color every day.  Kinyon, a teacher with the Springdale School District, grew up in Iowa.  He now resides in northwest Arkansas where he shares his love of reading, writing, and storytelling with the children he teaches.  Following the reading, Kinyon’s colorful book will be on sale and he will be available to sign books.  A portion of the book cost will be donated to the Library.

For more information:  479-750-8180.

New Giveaway! Strollerfit Restore the Core Classes

November 12, 2007 | 1 Comment

Strollerfit_logo_1 I’m so excited that Strollerfit of NWA is sponsoring another giveaway here on All Sides of Life.  In case you don’t know about Strollerfit, it is a group exercise program that allows you to exercise with your baby.  You can find out more on the Strollerfit website.

Strollerfit has just launched Restore the Core classes, which are pilates-style classes developed to restore the strength of the abdominal wall and pelvic floor post-pregnancy and help you lose that low belly sag.  You can watch a video preview of the classes on the Strollerfit website.

The 50 minute classes are held at the Northwest Arkansas mall on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 7pm with the first session beginning November 27 and running through December 20, 2007.

The lucky winner of this giveaway will participate in the first session of Restore the Core classes for FREE (no equipment or other fees apply). This is is an $80 value and is a great way to try Strollerfit.

To enter the giveaway, email me at allsidesoflife@gmail.com with “Strollerfit” 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 a total of 11 times.

All entries must be received by noon on Friday, November 16, 2007.  I will draw the winning name from the entries later that day. 

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

Painted Toast Trunk Show this Wednesday from Noon to 8pm

November 12, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Remember my post on Painted Toast, the online stationery store based in Rogers?  Alli at Painted Toast sent me a set of note cards and gift tags so I could see their products up close, and the adorable cards are exactly as the website describes them — sweet and simple.  I shared a few of the gift tags with my tween niece (she loved them!) and kept the rest for me.

If you are looking for fun stocking stuffers, Painted Toast is having a Buy 3 Get 1 Free Sale on ALL products at their Trunk Show this Wednesday, from Noon to 8 pm in Rogers. The address is 5202 Bent Tree Dr (the Bent Tree Neighborhood is off the 540 Pleasant Grove Exit).  Hope to see you there!

The Mysterious Benedict Society

November 12, 2007 | 1 Comment

Arkansas Author Trenton Lee Stewart will visit the Fayetteville Public Library on Thursday, Nov. 15 to discuss his book, The Mysterious Benedict Society.  Stewart will speak at 9 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.

The Mysterious Benedict Society is Stewart�s first children�s book and has been listed on the New York Times best seller list twice. Stewart has received comparisons to Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling.

Nightbird Books will sell copies of Stewart�s books, and following his talk, Stewart will be available to sign books.

Stewart, who currently lives in Little Rock, wrote the adult novel, Flood Summer, before getting inspiration for The Mysterious Benedict Society from his two sons. Stewart said the idea for the novel came from his belief that �children are often seen, rarely heard and always underestimated.�

Stewart�s appearance is part of Fayetteville Public Library�s celebration of Children�s Book Week. The theme of the Nov. 12-18, 2007 celebration is �Rise Up Reading.�

What:  Trenton Lee Stewart, author of The Mysterious Benedict Society
When: Thursday, Nov. 15 at 9 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.
Where: Fayetteville Public Library, Walker Community Room

Winter Wonderland on the Bentonville Square

November 12, 2007 | Leave a Comment

These free family events will be held during the holiday season on the square in Bentonville.

  • Multicultural Festival � Saturday November 17, 2007 from 2-4pm
  • Lighting of the Square � Saturday, November 17 at 5:30pm
  • Christmas �It�s Magical� Parade � Saturday, December 1, 2007 at 11am
  • A Frosty Flick � Friday, December 7 at 6pm
  • North Pole Downtown (traditional Christmas) � Saturday, December 8 from 10am-2pm
  • Tux on the Run � Saturday, December 15 at 10am

Looking for Activities for Your Child During the Thanksgiving Break?

November 9, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The Boys & Girls Club in Fayetteville having special activities at the Club on Monday � Wednesday, November 19th � 21st from 12:00 p.m. � 5:30 p.m. each day. All members are welcome.

The Club’s School Kids Connection (SKC) program will be offering a Thanksgiving camp opportunity at Holcomb Elementary on Monday, November 19th and Tuesday, November 20th from 7:30 a.m. � 5:30 p.m. Camp is limited to the first 60 youth signed up and registration is now underway. Please contact Nick Slater at 479-442-2156 or nick@fayettevillekids.org for more information.

Springdale Library Regular Programming

November 9, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The Springdale Public Library�s regular Pre-School Storytime, After School Storytime, Spanish Storytime, Lap Sit and Toddler Time programs will be on break until January. 

The Library will offer a variety of special programs during the remainder of November and December.  For more information, contact the Library at 479-750-8180 or visit the Library�s website at www.springdalelibrary.org

Reader Question: Competitive Girls Basketball Team?

November 9, 2007 | Leave a Comment

A reader is looking for a competive basketball team in Northwest Arkansas for her 4th grade daughter. 

Any suggestions?  Leave them in the comments or email me.

Bentonville’s Winter Wonderland Events

November 9, 2007 | Leave a Comment

These free family events will be held during the holiday season on the square in Bentonville.

  • Multicultural Festival — Saturday November 17, 2007 from 2-4pm
  • Lighting of the Square — Saturday, November 17 at 5:30pm
  • Christmas “It’s Magical” Parade — Saturday, December 1, 2007 at 11am
  • A Frosty Flick — Friday, December 7 at 6pm
  • North Pole Downtown (traditional Christmas) – Saturday, December 8 from 10am-2pm
  • Tux on the Run — Saturday, December 15 at 10am

Hip To Be Me

November 8, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Hip_to_be_me_2Some of you may know Suzanne Billings, the former Executive Director of Arts Live in Fayetteville.  She now lives in Little Rock and has opened an online store called Hip to be Me.

Suzanne has lots of fun products, including custom hand stamped sterling silver jewelry.  She describes it as an artistic, Necklaces1 contemporary take on engraving.  These necklaces stamped with children’s names would make great gifts for mothers or grandmothers.  In fact, my mom wears a similar one with the names of all her grandchildren on it, and she loves it.

You can find out more about these necklaces and the other products on the Hip to be Me website.

Responses to House Cleaner Question

November 8, 2007 | Leave a Comment

I gathered several recommendations for house cleaners.  I personally use Diana Zecena.  Here are quotes from the emails I received recommending others.  If you are interested, email me and I will send you contact information for these house cleaners.

  • Amy Friddle has done a wonderful job of cleaning my house.
  • I use Details Cleaning Service.  Holly Barnes is the owner and she has a staff that can accommodate most needs.  I like it because if people leave or aren’t doing a good job, she handles it for you.  She also stops in and does "surprise" inspections to make sure they are doing a good job. 
  • I have cleaned houses and am looking for more to clean. I have references and experience.
  • I know of a lady in Elkins that cleans houses. She is a super nice Christian women that can be trusted with your life. I can send emails/phone #’s of those in need to her. Thanks!
  • I have a friend that just started a cleaning service. She is my Connection Group leader from church and is very dependable. I have a flyer from her on e-mail. Send me your e-mail if you want her information. My e-mail is rotlfan@hotmail.com

Only the Best4U Expo

November 8, 2007 | Leave a Comment

If you are looking to get a head start on your Christmas shopping, stop by the Only the Best4U Expo where local women owned businesses will be displaying their wares in the Clarion Convention Center in Bentonville.  You can find a list of participating vendors here.

Play-Care of Bentonville will be providing free childcare during the event.

  • What:  Only the Best4U Expo
  • When:  Saturday, November 10, 2007 from 10am-5pm
  • Where:  Clarion Convention Center in Bentonville
  • Admission:  Free

Reader Question: Local Toy Makers

November 6, 2007 | 2 Comments

I just received this reader question, which is excellent in light of the recent toy recalls:

Do you know, or do your readers know, of any local toy makers?  Ones making the carved wood toys and such?  With all the toy recalls these days, I thought I’d start looking closer to home for quality gifts.

Any recommendations, readers?  Leave them in the comments or email me at allsidesoflife@gmail.com

Family Fun: A Trike-A-Thon!

November 5, 2007 | Leave a Comment

A Trike-A-Thon for 1 to 8 year olds is scheduled for Saturday, November 10, 2007 to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.  The Trike-A-Thon will take place in the parking lot of St. Joseph’s Church and School in Fayetteville. 

Participants may pick up a registration packet at one of these locations prior to the event: 

  • Fayetteville Public Library (in the children’s book section)
  • NWA Mall (at the customer service desk.)
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, located in Fayetteville, Springdale, Bentonville.  (When you sign up, each child receives a free kid’s meal!)

Registration forms and donations raised must be turned in the day of the Trike-a-Thon.  Participants will need to bring their own riding toy, such as a trike, bicycle, big wheel or push toy.  Don’t forget your helmet!

For more information, please visit www.stjude.org/trike or contact Alex Buck at (479) 601-6823 or shebuck76@yahoo.com

Lights of the Ozarks

November 5, 2007 | Leave a Comment

The Light the Night event on the Fayetteville Square will take place on Saturday, November 17, 2007 at 6pm.  This is the official beginning of the Lights of the Ozarks, and includes a parade with Santa.  Tis the season!

French Storytime at the Fayetteville Public Library

November 5, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Members of Le Cercle Francais at Bentonville High School will host a storytime at Fayetteville Public Library on Saturday, Nov. 10 at 10:30 a.m.

Activities will include arts and crafts, puppets and stories in French and English.

The storytime is for students in kindergarten through 5th grade and their families. Registration is required.

To sign up or for more information, call the Children’s Desk at 571.2222 x 4370.

Leaf Collecting, Tree Identifying, and Geocaching

November 3, 2007 | Leave a Comment

This is the perfect time to enjoy the fall color of the Ozarks.  Did you know that there are two arboreta (I just learned that word — it is the plural of arboretum, a collection of specimen of trees) on the University of Arkansas campus?  The first is on the Old Main Lawn and the second is below the Poultry Science Building.  The arboreta include 140 specimen of trees.

I think a great family activity would be to start a leaf collection or journal identifying trees.  Who knows, maybe you have a future botanist in your family.  Start with the arboretum mapping project website to plan your route.  If you zoom in on individual trees, each one is labeled.  The book, Trees of Arkansas, published by the Arkansas Forestry Commission, would be a great resource as well.

If you have a GPS device, you might want to include some geocaching on your adventure.  Several caches are hidden around the University of Arkansas campus.  Here’s a list of the caches hidden in the 72701 zip code.  Not familiar with geocaching?  It is a 21st century worldwide scavenger hunt.  If you want to learn more, go to the “getting started” section of the official geocaching website.

Crazy 8 (new sibling to Gymboree)

November 1, 2007 | Leave a Comment

Baby Cheapskate (love that blog) says Gymboree’s parent company has launched Crazy 8, a less expensive baby and kids clothing store along the lines of Old Navy.

No stores near here, but the online store is offering free shipping, so take a look!