2008 Was a Very Good Year!
January 5, 2009 | 1 Comment
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We are starting our third year here at Life+Kids, and could not be happier. Our readership has grown — over 1,000 subscribers and counting!! – and life is good.
We want to thank all of you for reading Life+Kids and providing your tips and recommendations on kid friendly NWA. We have lots planned for the year, including the upcoming Summer Camp Guide and Indoor Activity Guide. If there are things you would like to see here, please email your tips to terri@lifepluskids.com.
In 2009 we want to add more youth sport related information to the site. Keeping track of the various registration deadlines is mind boggling (in fact, I missed the soccer sign up this year!). For my own sanity, I hope to start including registration reminders and add a sports calendar to the site. So, start sending your recommendations for sports leagues (both rec and competitive) to terri@lifepluskids.com.
Also, the Birthday Party Planner is still in the works. It will launch this year. I know it will.
Finally, we would like to thank the other blogs and website who have sent traffic our way. These are the 5 local sites that sent Life+Kids the most visitors during 2008. Check them out.
- NWA Motherlode — this site is made for NWA moms by local moms who happen to be professional writers (which is obvious from the quality of writing on their site). On my daily click list.
- Twona Family Blog– in this local blog, Laurel and Shearn blog about life in NWA. I love to nose around and see what type of activities (and mischief) they’ve found!
- The Reed Family Blog — Amanda Reed maintains this adorable blog detailing the fun she has with her little one. Always full of bright pictures — and I love the site design! While you are there, check out the custom burp cloths and other specialities Amanda sells through her Bibs and Cribs business.
- The Iconoclast– timely and irreverent. You are not really in the know about local politics unless you follow this blog.
- Northwest Arkansas Info – lots and lots of local links!
Thanks again for reading, and Happy New Year!
Chinese New Year at the Fayetteville Public Library
January 5, 2009 | Leave a Comment
The Fayetteville Public Library will celebrate the Chinese New Year on Saturday, January 24 at 10:30 a.m. in the Wal-Mart Storytime Room.
The library will celebrate the Year of the Ox with a display of traditional Chinese dress and a sampling of food and games.
Meet the library’s new mascot and enter the naming contest.
The event is for students in kindergarten through 5th grade.
Registration is required.
Sign up at the Children’s Desk or by calling 856.7170.
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When: Thursday, January 24, 2008, 10:30 am
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Where: Wal-Mart Storytime Room
Youth Writing Workshop at the Fayetteville Public Library
January 4, 2009 | Leave a Comment
The Fayetteville Public Library will offer six-week creative writing workshops for students this winter.
The Youth Writing Workshop, for students in 3rd through 5th grade, will meet every Tuesday, Jan. 13 through Feb. 17, from 4 to 5 p.m., in the Wal-Mart Storytime Room.
Registration is required. Sign up at the Children’s Desk or by calling 856.7170.
Wizard of Oz Storytime at the Fayetteville Public Library
January 4, 2009 | Leave a Comment
The Fayetteville Public Library will host a special Wizard of Oz storytime on Wednesday, January 7 at 10:30 am.
Dorothy and Toto, from the touring production of Wizard of Oz, will be at the storytime and available for photos.
In addition, the library will be hosting a ticket give away to Wizard of Oz at the Walton Arts Center.
The event is for children and families. For more information, contact the Children’s Desk at 856.7170.
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When: Wednesday, January 07, 2009, 10:30 am
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Where: Wal-Mart Storytime Room
Help Me Brainstorm Summer Camp Options!
January 2, 2009 | 4 Comments
I am working on the Life+Kids Summer Camp Guide and would love your input on summer camp/childcare options. There are so many “under the radar” ones – I would love to include them all. Here are the ones I have so far — obviously, in no particular order.
Add your own to the comments or email me at terri@lifepluskids.com. Thank you!!!
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Ramay Jr. High (girls basketball)
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Fayetteville Bulldog (tennis)
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Devil’s Den
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Vacation Bible Schools
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Camp Invention
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Walton Arts Center
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Lady Bulldog (basketball)
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Little Mountain Bindery
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NWACCC
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Stonebridge golf clinic
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Central United Methodist Church (Camp Central)
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Camp Getaway
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New School
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Montessori summer program
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Boys & Girls Club
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Rogers Activity Center
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Kidswrite
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AAO Camp of Champs
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Dave O’Brien Soccer Camp
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UofA Continuing Ed summer reading program
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Arkansas Audobon Society’s ecology camp
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Eureka Springs School of the Arts
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New Life Ranch
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City of Fayetteville camps
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Razorback camps (football, basketball, soccer, music, etc.)
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Ozark Natural Science Center
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Trike Theater
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Camp Ozark
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Brookhill
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Camp Tanako
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Camp Subiaco
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All Star Soccer School (Siloam)
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Mad Science
Are Your Little Ones Going Stir Crazy? Try Tiny Poses Dance and Yoga for Kids in Bentonville
January 1, 2009 | 2 Comments
I know how hard it is to find ways for your little ones to burn their excess energy during the winter months. That’s why I love Tiny Poses — a yoga and dance class for toddlers and preschoolers!
The classes take place on Tuesdays at 9am for 1-3 year olds and Wednesdays at 9am for 3-5 year olds at Arkansas Musicworks in Bentonville.
The 1-3 year old class costs $25 a month and the 3-5 year old class costs $30 a month.
From the Tiny Poses website: We offer an affordable and unique combined dance and yoga class for toddlers and preschoolers. This program will teach the children the basic steps of ballet and tap dance and a curriculum of child’s yoga. Our goal is to teach your child age-appropriate dance and yoga in a relaxed, fun environment.
The January classes start next week, so hurry and sign up! Or, try a trial class for only $5. For more information, visit the Tiny Poses website.
Tell Ginger and Timeni that Terri at Life+Kids sent you!
Need Help Finding Childcare?
December 30, 2008 | Leave a Comment
The Northwest Arkansas Child Care Resource & Referral Center helps parent locate licensed and or / registered Child Care Providers in Benton, Carroll, Madison, Washington, Crawford, Sebastian, Scott, Franklin, Yell, Logan and Johnson counties.
All referrals are free of charge. Here’s their number: 479-751-3463
They also offer FREE parenting class at the Jones Center for Families every Thursday night 6:00pm-8:00pm in Room 112. All are free and you don’t have to register for them!
First Night Fayetteville at the Northwest Arkansas Mall
December 29, 2008 | Leave a Comment
First Night Fayetteville is the family friendly New Years Eve celebration in Northwest Arkansas.
First Night has historically been held on the Square in downtown Fayetteville. But this year, the event will be held at the Northwest Arkansas Mall.
While the new venue is not as charming as the Square, the event is now almost entirely indoors (much easier with young kids!) and the location is more accessible for those of you coming from the North.
Click here to see a complete schedule of events (link). Here are just a few of the ones that look extra fun to me:
- Robot / Space World - Visit a spaceship that has landed and see the robot family. Created by students in the Yvonne Richardson Community Center.
- Build with Newspaper Logs - Visit the giant pile of newspaper logs and build fabulous sculptures, houses, etc. Logs prepared by students at the University of Arkansas.
- Blu-Zoo - A hands on event and will be an instrument “petting zoo” Kids and families will be invited to touch, handle and “wear” a variety of instruments that might be found in a blues band. Volunteer “zoo-keepers” will assist and answer questions.
- Giant Garden Installation - Walk through a giant garden and see the creatures hiding there. (created by students in the Summer Art Explosion and the Homeschool Art Institute at the Community Imagination Studio.
- Butterfly Garden - Walk among the trees and look at the giant butterflies. Created by students at Fayetteville Boys & Girls Club and the Montessori School.
Hope to see you there!
- What: First Night Fayetteville
- When: Wednesday, December 31, 2009 from 6pm until midnight
- Where: Northwest Arkansas Mall
- Cost: Adults $10, Children $5, under 3 Free, $30 max per family. Tickets can be purchased online or at the even
Beethoven’s Big Break was a Big Hit with my Boys!
December 24, 2008 | Leave a Comment
When you ask my 3rd grader what kind of movie to rent, the answer is always “comedy. hilarious comedy.” It’s been fun to see his sense of humor develop, and we are always looking for new, age appropriate movies to feed the beast. That’s why I was excited to receive a review copy of the new release in the Beethoven series — Beethoven’s Big Break.
The very official screening was held in our minivan on the way to Little Rock for the holidays. The reviewers were my 1st and 3rd grade sons. Granted, I couldn’t see any of the show from the front seat, but judging from the laughs, the movie received two thumbs up.
When I asked my sons to rate the movie, my oldest said he would have given it an A-, but for the “tooting” scene. That moved the rating up to an A++++. The younger brother agreed with an addition of too many pluses to mention.
Here’s the official info about the DVD: Bring together one mega-popular pooch, an all-star cast, some of today’s hottest music and a barrel of bouncing baby St. Bernards, and it all adds up to Beethoven’s Big Break! The all-new adventure comes exclusively to DVD on December 26, 2008 from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. This full-length comedy stars Moises Arias (Rico on “Hannah Montana”), Jonathan Silverman (“The Single Guy”), Daytime Emmy ® winner Jennifer Finnigan (“The Bold and the Beautiful”), Rhea Perlman (“Cheers”), Joey Fatone (“Dancing with the Stars,” ‘N Sync), Stephen Tobolowsky (“Heroes”), Oscar Nunez (“The Office”), Eddie Griffin (Undercover Brother) and Cesar Millan (“The Dog Whisperer”) in his feature film debut—and introduces Pete The Lizard! A fresh and funny re-imagination of the hugely popular franchise, Beethoven’s Big Break is jam-packed with more action and laughs than ever before.
Be on the lookout for Beethoven’s Big Break. The DVD will be released December 26!
Wizard of Oz Tickets Winner!
December 22, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Congratulations to Life+Kids reader Laura Kroggel. She won two tickets to The Wizard of Oz at the Walton Arts Center and a $10 gift certificate to Jose’s Mexican Restaurant!
Didn’t win? Don’t worry. Just go to www.waltonartscenter.org and buy your tickets!
You should click here and go to the comments to see all the reader’s favorite lines from the Wizard of Oz. Here are more that were emailed directly to me:
- Of course I have to pick “There’s no place like Home” line because it is so true! After a long day, that line just flies out of my mouth!
- “We’re not in Kansas anymore.” I remember riding in the airplane over Russia when I adopted my son as an infant and another new mother (who was from Kansas) was traveling with me in the next seat. i looked out the window over Siberia (which was beautiful in late May, by the way) and telling her we’re not in Kansas anymore.
- Tin man is my all time fave. ToTo would be my 5 year olds fave.
- My favorite part of the movie is in the very beginning when Dorothy and Toto are still in Kansas in black and white. Everything just seems so different and and at such a slow pace.
- I can quote every single like from the movie, start to finish, and my daughter is getting close to doing the same. One of her favorite songs for me to sing to her when she’s going to bed is “Over the Rainbow”. She knows each word to that song as well.
School’s Out Activities at the Springdale Public Library
December 20, 2008 | Leave a Comment
SCHOOL’S OUT ACTIVITES AT THE LIBRARY
Beat the winter blahs with children’s holiday programs at the Springdale Public Library. On Monday, December 22, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., match your game wits against others with School’s Out Board Games! Games not your thing? You can also make a last minute holiday craft to give as a present! The program is free and registration is not required.
LIBRARY CLOSED FOR HOLIDAYS
The Springdale Public Library will be closed Wednesday, December 24, and Thursday, December 25, for the holidays. The Library will reopen on Friday, December 26 for regular hours.
STORY TIMES RESUME AFTER THE NEW YEAR
Pre-School Story Time, Lap Sit and Toddler Time, School Age Programs and Spanish Story Time will resume beginning January 6.
Contact 479-750-8180 for more information.
10% Off at Terra Tots in Fayetteville
December 20, 2008 | Leave a Comment
To celebrate this holiday season, Terra Tots natural parenting is offering 10% off of any purchase made on Tuesday, December 23rd!
- PLAN toys rocking horse - regular price $60, ON SALE for $50
- PLAN Toys Adventure Road & Rail - regular price $200, ON SALE for $175
- PLAN Toys shopping cart - regular price $65, ON SALE for $55
- Speesees clothing 23% OFF
Terra Tots Holiday Hours: Closed Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday - December 24th thru the 26th. Closed the first week of January. Regular hours will start back on January 6th, 2009.
Wizard of Oz at the Walton Arts Center
December 17, 2008 | 47 Comments
Note: The contest for tickets is over, but you can still get tickets to the show by going to www.waltonartscenter.org.
The greatest family musical of all time, THE WIZARD OF OZ, is touching down in theaters across the country with an appearance in Fayetteville at Walton Arts Center. Don’t miss the chance to travel “Over the Rainbow” and experience this national treasure on stage.
Performance times are Tuesday, Wed. and Thurs. Jan. 6 -8 at 7pm., Friday, Jan. 9 at 8pm, Saturday, Jan. 10 at 2pm & 8pm, and Sunday, Jan. 11 at 2pm and 7pm. Tickets range from $20-$58 and can be purchased by calling Walton Arts Center Box Office at 479-443-5600 or by visiting www.waltonartscenter.org.
Join Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow as they are transported “Over the Rainbow” to adventures in Munchkin Land, the Haunted Forest, and the Emerald City.
This magical production, based on the Royal Shakespeare Company’s celebration of the 1939 MGM movie, is presented with breathtaking special effects that will sweep audiences away from the moment the tornado touches down and transports you to a dazzling art deco Oz, complete with munchkins and flying monkeys.
Now to the GIVEAWAY — the wonderful folks at the Walton Arts Center are giving away two free tickets to the show and a $10 gift certificate to Jose’s Mexican restaurant to one lucky Life+Kids reader.
Here’s how you enter — leave a comment on this post telling us your favorite Wizard line, character or movie moment. (If you get these posts by email, just click on the title of this post and you will get to the Life+Kids site where you can comment). If you have problems, just email your entry to me at terri@lifepluskids.com.
As always, increase your chances of winning by telling your friends about Life+Kids and copying me on the email (terri@lifepluskids.com). I will not use your friends email addresses for anything except to calculate how many times your name will be entered into the giveaway.
The DEADLINE for entry is SUNDAY, December 21 at noon. The drawing will be held later that day.
Enjoy! And thanks for reading Life+Kids!
Community Candlelight Service in Jane, Missouri
December 13, 2008 | Leave a Comment
I received this information from LifeSpring, a new church in Jane. The pastor’s wife is a Life+Kids subscriber and the church focuses on families with children:
Many churches hold worship services on Christmas Eve.A new community of faith, LifeSpring United Methodist Church, is offering an alternative for those who want to experience a Christmas Eve service, but whose schedule may prevent them from doing so.
The worship service to be held December 21st at 7 PM in the community room at Hometown Bank of Jane, Missouri, will feature the story of Jesus’ birth, traditional Christmas songs, and will conclude with the lighting of candles as those gathered join in singing Silent Night.
Hometown Bank is located north of the Jane Walmart on Highway 71. More information about the Community Candlelight Celebration and LifeSpring United Methodist can be found online at www.lifespringumc.org or by contacting Pastor Shawn Franssens at 417-540-5979.
Timely Class: Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University
December 13, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University Class begins at Trinity United Methodist Church, Fayetteville AR on January 13 from 6-8pm. Child care is provided. Call 479-575-9500 for more information or to register for this class.
This 13 week class is a biblically-based, video driven small group study that teaches families to beat debt, build wealth and give like never before! It is hosted by Trinity for the Fayetteville community. All are welcome.
Preview classes are offered Sunday, January 4 after service and again on Tuesday, January 6 at 6 p.m. Class material, based upon enrollment, will be ordered at approximately $95 per family. In many cases FPU can award Continuing Education Unit credit to class graduates. Please go to www.daveramsey.com for more details.
Trinity United Methodist Church is located at the intersection of Garland & Sycamore in Fayetteville.
Support Life+Kids When you shop at Amazon.com
December 12, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Are you an amazon.com shopper? Everytime you shop, get there by clicking on this link to amazon.com
This is an easy way to support Life+Kids at no cost to you!
P.S. If you get these posts by email and cannot see the link, go to www.lifepluskids.com and you can find it under New on Life+Kids!
Free Musical Holiday Concert at the Arts Center of the Ozarks
December 12, 2008 | Leave a Comment
The Arkansas Winds Community Concert Band, with conductor Michael Ferguson, will present “A Musical Holiday Concert for All Ages” on Saturday, December 20 at 3:00pm at the Arts Center of the Ozarks, 214 South Main, Springdale.
Children’s favorites such as “Peter and the Wolf” and “Carnival of the Animals” will showcase the concert. The concert will feature the First-Chimers, a youth hand bell choir. Holiday favorites including “Sleigh Ride”, “Christmas Festival”, “Carol of the Bells” and more.
Free admission. For more information, www.arkansaswinds.org or 751-5441.
You Will Not Want to Miss This Sale!
December 11, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Once Upon a Child in Fayetteville is Having a big Blowout Sale on Friday, December 12, 2008. You save more by the hour, on selected clothing. The longer you shop the more you save!
From 10:00am - 3:00pm - Save 50% OFF
From 3:00pm - 6:00pm - Save 60% OFF
From 6:00pm - 9:00pm - Save 70% OFF
Additional savings on toys, furniture and equipment. See you there!
A Christmas Story at the Rogers Little Theater
December 10, 2008 | Leave a Comment
A Christmas Story, based on the motion picture about 9-year-old Ralphie Parker’s quest for a Red Ryder BB gun is playing at the Rogers Little Theater this weekend, December 12-14, 2008.
Tickets are $10/adults and $7/children and are available in the box office. Click here to buy tickets to A Christmas Story.
Lets Read a Picture at the Bentonville Public Library
December 9, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Let’s Read a Picture begins in the Children’s section of the Bentonville Public Library as participants view a gallery of selected works from Crystal Bridges’ permanent collection.
Children will explore the artwork through interactive gallery games followed by a treasure hunt for related books.
- What: Let’s Read a Picture (a free art appreciation experience fo children and families)
- When: December 30, 2008 from 2 to 3 pm
- Where: Bentonville Public Library (click here for more info)
Discover Art at Crystal Bridges at the Massey
December 9, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Children can create their own gift wrap, gift bag and note card in time for Christmas.
There will be lots to do and watch at the hands-on stations when guests from the National Federation of the Blind of Northwest Arkansas demonstrate note card punching on a special Braille typewriter and provide Braille children’s book holiday readings.
- What: Make Your Own Gift Wrap, Bag and Card
- When: December 13, 2008, 10 a.m. to noon
- Where: Crystal Bridges at the Massey in Bentonville
- Who: Free program best for children ages 5 – 12 and their adult partners (No registration required)
Holiday Story Times at the Springdale Public Library
December 8, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Here’s a list of upcoming story times at the Springdale Public Library:
PRE-SCHOOL STORY TIME
Pre-Schoolers ages 3 to 6 are invited to visit the Springdale Public Library for special holiday Story Times on Wednesdays, December 10 and 17, 11:00 a.m.
On Wednesday, December 10, children explore the world of Fantastical Fairies and Dragons. Following the program, children will make a craft to take home.
HOLIDAY FAMILY STORY TIME
December Family Story Time programs are offered at the Springdale Public Library on Tuesdays, December 9 and 16, 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. These fun-filled programs feature stories, songs, activities, and crafts and are great for the whole family.
On Tuesday, December 9, children will escape to a fantastical land of fairies and dragons with the books Pinkalicious by Victoria Kann, Do Princesses Really Kiss Frogs? by Carmela Coyle, and Who Wants a Dragon? by James Mahew. After dancing to “Do the Dragon Dance,” and playing the “Unicorn Party” song, children will make a dragon mosaic to take home.
LAP SIT / TODDLER TIME
Combined Lap Sit and Toddler Time programs for the holidays will be offered at the Springdale Public Library on Wednesdays, December 10 and 17, at 11:00 a.m.
These programs include action rhymes, stories, and songs.
Information: 479-750-8180.
Adoption Fundraiser in Bentonville
December 6, 2008 | Leave a Comment
I received this email about a fundraiser in Bentonville for two local families who are adopting children through Grace Haven Ministries. It sounds like an excellent cause.
We are excited to announce an event to help raise money for 2 local families who are adopting children - Eric and Leslie Hutsler and Mike and Erica Kelso. The Hutsler Family is adopting a baby that is due in February. The Kelso Family is adopting a precious 2 year old little girl. All profits will be split between these two families and will go directly towards their adoption expenses. This is going to be a fun time and we’d like everyone to stop by and support these families.
Activities will include…
1) Photos with Santa for families and children! Everyone who donates a minimum of $20 will receive a 5×7 professional quality print of their photo with Santa. And, there are no sitting fees!
2) Silent Auction! Grace Haven Ministries, a local non-profit organization that these families are working with, will be having a Silent Auction! Browse the tables and bid on some great gift ideas while you wait for Santa or after your photo has been taken. Lots of items are being donated from area businesses for this event. Cool stuff for your home, kids, even that “difficult-to-buy-for” person on your Christmas list! This will be an excellent opportunity to do some last-minute Christmas shopping!
This event will take place on Monday, December 15 from 5:00pm - 8:00pm at the Keypoint Church Student Center in Bentonville.
Directions: From I-540, take Exit 85. Go West on SE Walton Blvd. Turn left onto SW Commerce Drive - right behind the Post Office in Bentonville. Keypoint Church is located in the back at 1710 SW Commercial Drive. The Student Center is across the street from the main building, directly behind the Post Office.
Come join the fun! We’d love to see you there!
Thanks for your support,
The Hutsler’s and the Kelso’s
Interested in Online Writing? You Will Want to Check Out This Giveaway!
December 6, 2008 | Leave a Comment
I often receive emails from Life+Kids readers asking for tips on creating a blog or other website. If you are interested in exploring online writing (which can be a great way to earn income from home), you should consider the course How to Launch a Successful Online Writing Career hosted by local writers Lela Davidson and Mary Ann Powers.
Lela Davidson is an online-turned-real-life friend of mine. I enjoy her humorous blog After the Bubbly which chronicles her life as a mom. Lela is partnering with May Ann Powers, another local travel writer, to offer a course about online writing. Here are the details from Lela:
Lela Davidson and Mary Ann Powers are pleased to announce THE course that will set you up for online writing success! We will walk you through the steps it takes to go from beginner to paid professional. We’ll draw on our combined experience in freelance writing, blogging, and promotion to teach you everything you need to know to land that first job.
The world of online writing can seem overwhelming. This course equips you with practical tools you can go home and apply right away! Mary Ann and Lela both transitioned out of traditional jobs to write online starting in 2006. They love their work as well as teaching others how to succeed in launching a professional writing career!
In this 3-hour course you will learn:
-Where to find online writing jobs
-How to identify a good opportunity vs. a scam
-Accepted methods of applying for work online
-How to create a blog and what to write about
-Types of revenue streams available to bloggers
-How to brand yourself and promote your work
-Components of successful online posts and articles
-The five most common types of online articles
-Where to find images
-Business issue specific to online writers
-And more!
Plus - Students will receive electronic templates for various useful files such as a time tracker and a sample cover letter you can cut and paste into emails to apply for jobs.
But wait, there’s more!
After the class, every student will have the opportunity to have a writing sample critiqued by Lela or Mary Ann to make sure they understand the specific requirements for online articles!
How to Launch a Successful Online Writing Career
Saturday, January 17, 9:00 am - Noon
Community Room, Parkway Bank in Pinnacle Hills just off I-540
To register, email Lela and Mary Ann at write4web@gmail.com.
Class fee if received before December 10th: $45
Class fee if received after December 10th: $55
Please register soon. Class size is limited to the first 20 respondents!
Now on to the giveaway . . . Lela and Mary Ann are offering the class tuition free to TWO lucky readers. All you have to to is send an email to write4web@gmail.com explaining (in 50 words or less) why you would love to take the class.
Good luck, and I hope you enjoy the giveaway!
Drive Through Nativity at Calvary Baptist Church
December 5, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Sorry for the late notice, but the Calvary Baptist Church on Porter Road in Fayetteville is hosting a drive through nativity this weekend.
The nativity will be open from 6:30-8:30 December 5-7, 2008. Click here for more information.
Unique and Local: Lizindo Imports in Fayetteville
December 4, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Looking to add budget friendly, whimsical decor to your child’s room? Stop by Lizindo Imports on Mountain Street in Fayetteville. The entire back section of the store is dedicated to brightly painted kids furniture and decor from Bali, Indonesia.
We love how this section of the store evolved. Back in 1998, when the store opened, owner Liz Crone had no idea that her Indonesian import business would lead to importing children’s toys and furniture. But, after her first grandchild was born, Crone picked up a few colorful hand-painted children’s items she found at many markets during her annual trips to Bali.
Each year, and after more grandchildren, Liz came back with more and more of these beautifully made wooden crafts, including tables and chairs, mirrors, masks and piggy banks. Now, the entire back section of her store is dedicated to them. So, just as a grandchildren take over more of your heart, the children’s items have taken over more of her store!
While you are there, don’t miss the fabulous collection of unique, hand-painted Santas. They come in all shapes and sizes and are perfect for teacher gifts, hostess gifts, or to add to your own collection. But, hurry because these popular items go fast!
Where do you find this hidden gem? Lizindo Imports is located on Mountain Street, just two blocks East of the Fayetteville Public Library, before you get to the Fayetteville Square. Click here for a map.
- Lizindo Imports
- 241 West Mountain St., Fayetteville
- 479-442-3460
- Holiday Hours: Monday-Saturday, 10-5
We Have a Winner!
December 3, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Congratulations to Janelle Redlaczyk, the winner of 4 tickets and concession coupons to A Christmas Carol at the Walton Arts Center this weekend! Didn’t win? Go anyway!
Tickets are still available on the Walton Arts Center website or by calling the box office at 479-443-5600. Ticket prices range from $14-$22. The show is recommended for ages 6 and up.
As an aside, Janelle is the Youth and Families Programs Coordinator at Crystal Bridges at the Massey. For those of you who are new to the area, Crystal Bridges is a world class American Art museum under construction in Bentonville.
Currently, Crystal Bridges is located in the historic Massey Building, just off the Bentonville square. Janelle and the others at the Crystal Bridges at the Massey provide exceptional family programming — with much more to come once they move onto their campus in 2010. Click here to learn more about Crystal Bridges or click here to learn more about Crystal Bridges at the Massey.
Shopping Expo at Leverett Elementary School
December 3, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Leverett Elementary School in Fayetteville is hosting the first ever Leverett EXPO on Saturday, December 6, from 8am until noon.
Join in some unique holiday shopping while keeping your money in our community and seeing what talents your neighbors have to offer.
Local businesses will showcase holiday gift ideas, and the kids will be entertained with face painting and pictures with Santa by Dianna Michelle photography! Oh, and did we mention raffle items?
Beat the rush and come shop early! Here’s a link with a map to the school.
A Christmas Carol Giveaway! 4 Free Tickets!
November 30, 2008 | 7 Comments
Looking to rediscover your Christmas spirit? Watch the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a classic journey of remembrance and redemption in A Christmas Carol at the Walton Arts Center this weekend (December 5-7, 2008). Click here for tickets and more information.
Back to the Giveaway – one lucky Life+Kids reader will win 4 tickets and concession coupons for the show!
How do you enter the drawing for the free tickets and concession coupons? It’s easy. Leave a comment (any comment) on this post or email me at terri@lifepluskids.com with “Christmas Carol” in the subject line.
You can increase your chances of winning by emailing your friends to let them know about Life+Kids and copying me on the email (terri@lifepluskids.com). Your name will be entered in the drawing once for each friend you email about Life+Kids.
Entries must be received by noon on Wednesday, December 3, 2008. The winner will be announced later that day.
Thanks for reading Life+Kids — I hope you enjoy the Giveaway!
Breakfast with Santa at the Northwest Arkansas Mall
November 30, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Looking for a chance to have fun and do good at the same time? Your family can have breakfast with Santa, make reindeer food, write a letter to Santa, and have their face painted — best of all, proceeds benefit the Arkansas Childrens’ Hospital! Here are the details:
- What: Breakfast with Santa
- When: Saturday, December 13, 2008 from 8-10am
- Where: Garcia’s Mexican Restaurant in the Northwest Arkansas Mall
- Cost: $5 in advance, $8 day of the event
- Tickets: to purchase tickets, go to the Guest Services Desk at the Northwest Arkansas Mall or email Shannon_Langston@cox.net or call 479-442-1697.
Children’s Christmas Train Departs from Springdale
November 24, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Take a take a train ride with Santa on the Children’s Christmas Train, December 6th, 2008 departing from the Arkansas Missouri Railroad Station in Springdale. Proceeds benefit child-centered organizations in Northwest Arkansas. Click here for a pdf flyer about the Christmas Train.
Christmas Parade in Bentonville
November 24, 2008 | 1 Comment
Downtown Bentonville is hosting its annual Christmas Parade on December 6, 2008 at 11am. This parade is nice for the littlest ones, as it takes place during the day. Click here for more information about the Bentonville Christmas Parade.
Holiday Pet Parade in Fayetteville
November 24, 2008 | Leave a Comment
The Lights of the Ozarks in Fayetteville is hosting a Holiday Pet Parade on December 5, 2008 at 6pm on the Square in downtown Fayetteville.
I know any child would love to walk their family pet in the parade. To do so, you must register by December 1 and pay a $10 registration fee. Click here to go to the Lights of the Ozarks webpage and download the pet parade application.
Breakfast with Santa at the Arts Center of the Ozarks
November 23, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Your child can have Breakfast with Santa and have their picture made too at the Arts Center of the Ozarks in Springdale on Saturday, December 6, 2008. Adults $5, Children $15. Click here to learn more and purchase your tickets to Breakfast with Santa.
Community Christmas Parade in Rogers
November 23, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Main Street Rogers will host its Community Christmas Parade on December 1, 2008 beginning at 7pm. Click here for more information about the Rogers Community Christmas Parade.
Christmas Parade of the Ozarks in Springdale
November 23, 2008 | Leave a Comment
The Rodeo of the Ozarks will host the 12th Annual Christmas Parade of the Ozarks in Springdale on Saturday, November 29, 2008 beginning at 6pm. This year’s theme is A Cartoon ‘N Christmas. Click here for more information about the Christmas Parade of the Ozarks.
Bob the Builder at the Walton Arts Center
November 22, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Bob the Builder Live! at the Walton Arts Center
Sunday, Feb. 15, 2pm & 5pm
Tickets start at: $18
Be among the first to get your tickets to Bob the Builder Live! Spud’s Big Mess. Tickets are on sale now!
Click here to buy, or call the Walton Arts Center Box Office at 479-443-5600.
Come see Bob the Builder and his team embark in a brand new adventure! “Spud’s Big Mess” features all of your favorite characters in a fun-packed show set in the heart of Sunflower Valley. Join Bob, Wendy, Scoop, Lofty, Dizzy, Scrambler and the rest of the gang in fantastic songs and an exciting adventure as they have to deal with Spud’s mischievous antics, as well as some monster surprises along the way!
Bob and his team – even Farmer Pickles, Pilchard and Bird - work together to save Sunflower Valley from Spud’s old tricks! And this time, the friends pull together to build the first ever Sunflower Valley recycling plant and wind farm!
Based on the popular international television show sensation, Bob the Builder Live! is guaranteed to delight, educate and entertain!
A Christmas Carol High School
November 20, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Arts Live Theatre is presenting A Christmas Carol High School December 12-14, 2008 at the UofA Continuing Education Auditorium on the Fayetteville Square.
The classic story of “A Christmas Carol” is given a modern twist and set at West End High School where the campus “Scrooge” is the meanest, nastiest girl in school! A funny, witty and touching script, Christmas Carol High School is the perfect holiday event!
Click here for tickets and more information about a Christmas Carol High School.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever at the ACO
November 20, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Many families, I’m sure, participate in very refined holiday rituals. But one of my family’s favorite traditions is the reading of The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
If you kids like the book, they will love the play. You can see the Best Christmas Pageant Ever at the Arts Center of the Ozarks in Springdale December 12-14.
I also found this online teachers guide with questions and activities related to the book.
I Hope your family enjoys this classic as much as mine does!
- What: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever
- When: Friday Dec. 12 through Sunday, Dec. 14, 2008
- Where: The Arts Center of the Ozarks in Springdale
- Cost: $8-$16 dollars per ticket
The Nutcracker Ballet at the Arend Arts Center
November 20, 2008 | Leave a Comment
What would Christmas be without the Nutcracker? This year marks Classical Youth Ballet of Northwest Arkansas’ fifth 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.
- What: The Nutcracker
- When: Saturday, Dec. 13th and Sunday, December 14th
- Where: Arend Arts Center on the Bentonville High School campus
- Cost: Tickets to the performance range from $7 to $22 and are available to order online or by calling (479) 464-0150.
A Christmas Carol at the Walton Arts Center
November 19, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Start a new family tradition with the University Theatre’s production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, directed by Micheal Landman. Rediscover your Christmas spirit as the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future lead the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge on a classic journey of rememberance and redemption.
Friday, December 5-Sunday December 7, 2008. Tickets $14-$22. Click here for more information and to buy tickets to a Christmas Carol.
Lighting of the Bentonville Square
November 19, 2008 | Leave a Comment
The lighting of the Bentonville Square will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2008 from 5-7pm. This is part of Bentonville’s Winter Wonderland celebration.
Lights of the Ozarks on the Fayetteville Square
November 18, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Downtown Fayetteville is turned into a sparkling wonderland each season through the Lights of the Ozarks. The Light the Night event will be held on Saturday, November 22, 2008 at 6:15pm with the theme “Rocking in a Green Wonderland.”
There’s a Mouse in Headquarters House!
November 18, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Especially for preschoolers, grade-schoolers and the young at heart . . .
Holiday Headquarters House Mouse Museum tour conducted by Heritage School students of the Washington County Historical Society.
- 100 piece mouse collection
- Father Christmas
- Holiday traditions through photos and antique dolls
The tour is Saturday, December 13, 2008 at 10am; cost is $5 per child (must be accompanied by an adult)
Reservations Required: Historical Society 479.521.2970 or DeeDee Lamb 479.409.9654
The Headquarters House is located at 118 East Dickson Street in Fayetteville. The house was built in 1853 and The Battle of Fayetteville was fought on its front lawn during the Civil War (link).
Bongo & Jack’s Ice Cream Factory
November 18, 2008 | Leave a Comment
On Sat., Nov. 22, the Students In Free Enterprise (SIFE) at the University of Arkansas will present Bongo & Jack’s Ice Cream Factory, a one-day program designed to teach children, grades 6-8, the basic concept of supply and demand. This is done by teaching the students about global ice cream production.
Bongo & Jack’s Ice Cream Factory will be held on the University of Arkansas campus in the Sam M. Walton College of Business – Business Building, room 116. The program runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Registration will be from 8:30-9 a.m. Advance registration requested (see below).
This is a fun opportunity to learn about business through interactive classes and an ice cream creation competition. Students will also make team presentations showing off their fabulous ice cream creations, further enhancing their speaking and presentation skills.
Parents are welcome to come and support their children during their presentations. T-shirts, lunch and snacks will be provided throughout the day.
Admission is $15 per student to offset cost of production.
SIFE is a global, non-profit organization active on more than 1,800 university campuses in over 40 countries. SIFE offers students the opportunity to develop leadership, teamwork and communication skills through learning, practicing and teaching principles of free enterprise, thereby improving the standard of living for millions in the process. For more information visit http://sife.uark.edu on the Web.
Advanced registration is requested via e-mail to:
- Katie Sanders
- SIFE Bongo & Jack’s Project Leader
- University of Arkansas
- Phone: 501.519.5187
- E-mail: kls20@uark.edu
Breakfast with Santa at Courtyard Marriott
November 16, 2008 | Leave a Comment
Instead of waiting in a long line to see Santa, why not enjoy a hot breakfast with Santa and your kids –that you don’t have to cook! The Courtyard Marriott in Fayetteville (near Target, Old Navy, etc.) is hosting Breakfast with Santa on Saturday December 6, 2008 from 8-10am.
Children can enjoy “Breakfast with Santa” and whisper their wishes while making lasting memories. Admission is $5.00 per child; $8.00 per adult and includes a hot breakfast buffet and exclusive photo opportunities with Santa.
Limited seating is available and reservations must be made by December 1st. To make your reservations, please call 479-571-4900.
Welcome to Rhonda- a New Member of the Life+Kids Team
November 13, 2008 | Leave a Comment
I would like to introduce Rhonda Crone, a new member of the Life+Kids team. Rhonda will be helping me out with posting now and then, but her main focus will be taking care of the wonderful sponsors of Life+Kids.
If you have a business that Life+Kids readers should know about, please contact Rhonda at rhonda@lifepluskids.com. Our sponsorship rates are reasonable, and we greatly appreciate the support!
Studio Saturday at the Community Imagination Studio
November 13, 2008 | Leave a Comment
All of Northwest Arkansas is invited to Saturday Studio Hours every week from 10am-4pm at the Community Imagination Studio, 818 N. Sang Ave. in Fayetteville.
On Saturday, November 13 you can get Wacky for the WAC again! The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Other Eric Carle Favourites Show is coming up at the Walton Arts Center – so on this Studio Saturday, you’ll make caterpillar hats and talk about the book! Also, come in and work on your family’s 1st Night Sculpture or just make some paintings!
Cost is $5 for adults and children. $10 to work with clay. Free to parents of participating children.
For more information about this program, ple