Get Crafty Saturdays at BAM: Design Your Own House

Have your kids ever dreamed of designing their own building? Take them to Get Crafty Saturdays at the Bellevue Arts Museum on Saturday, January 7th or 14th for a chance to design their own floorplan. They can build walls and roofs using mat board and foam board, and a range of other things to "design" their space.

Details ---
Where: Bellevue Arts Museum
When: Saturday, January 7th and Saturday January 14th at 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Cost: $2 materials fee or free with admission
Details: For kids 4 - 12
More Info: Here

Concerts for Kids: Professor Banjo

Paul Silveria, known as the banjo-slinging, old-time singing Professor Banjo, will be performing for kids and adults at the Northgate Community Center on January 7th. He will entertain young and old with his sing-a-longs, dancing games, and stories.

This concert is part of a series presented by the Haller Lakes Art Council, the Northgate Community Center Advisory Board and the Northgate Community Center. There are many more free concerts in the coming months and I'll be sure to keep you posted on them!

Details ---
Where: Northgate Community Center (10510 5th Ave N.E. Seattle, WA)
When: Saturday, January 7th 11 a.m.
Cost: FREE!
More Info: For kids age 4 - 12. All children must be accompanied by an adult and seating is on a first come first serve basis. Check out the Haller Lakes Art Council website for more info.

Imagine Children's Museum: Free Friday Night Live

Imagine Children's Museum opens their doors to the public on the third Friday of every month for FREE Friday Night Live. The museum is open from 5:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. and admission is free! You can't beat free!

Details ---
Where: Imagine Children's Museum (1502 Wall Street Everett, WA)
When: Friday, January 20th, February 17th, and March 16th at 5:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Cost: Free!
More Info: Imagine Children's Museum website

Lowe's Build & Grow Workshop: Build-a-saurus

Lowe's is holding two Build & Grow events at their stores in January. The first is a Castle project on January 14th. The second, on January 28th, is a Build-a-saurus. Your kids can build a wooden dinosaur and then choose stickers to make it look like a realistic or cartoon dinosaur. Each participant will take home an apron, goggles, a project themed patch, and a certificate of completion along with their castle.

The workshop is open to kids ages 5 and up and registration is required. Be sure to sign up early because these projects are popular and spots fill up fast!

If you're kids are under 5 or you can't make it to Lowe's this weekend, you can buy their workshop kits and make them at home. The kits are around $5 - $10 each.

Details ---
Where: Lowe's Home Improvement
When: Saturday, January 28th at 10 a.m.
Cost: Free!
More Info: Lowe's Build & Grow website

Lowe's Build & Grow Workshop: Castle

Lowe's is holding two Build & Grow events at their stores in January. The first, on January 14th, is a Castle complete with stickers, paperboard cutouts, and a working drawbridge. Each participant will take home an apron, goggles, a project themed patch, and a certificate of completion along with their castle.

The second workshop is a Build-a-saurus on January 28th. Check out all the details here.

The workshops are open to kids ages 5 and up and registration is required. Be sure to sign up early because these projects are popular and spots fill up fast!

If you're kids are under 5 or you can't make it to Lowe's this weekend, you can buy their workshop kits and make them at home. The kits are around $5 - $10 each.

Details ---
Where: Lowe's Home Improvement
When: Saturday, January 14th at 10 a.m.
Cost: Free!
More Info: Lowe's Build & Grow website

Free LEGO Club Magazine Subscription

Do you have a little LEGO lover in your family? (Or maybe you're a the LEGO lover in the family?) Did you know you can get a free LEGO Club Magazine subscription? Finley has been getting hers for almost a year now. She loves all the pictures and the activities in it. Sign up and start getting yours, too!

You should also check out the LEGO events in the area. Bellevue Art & Frame and The Toy Place hosts a monthly LEGO Meetup the second Wednesday of every month from 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Lynnwood Library also holds a LEGO Club once a month on Thursdays at 4 p.m. And don't forget about the free mini-model build every month at the LEGO Store. I think that's more than enough to keep your LEGO lovers busy!

LEGO Store: Build a FREE Mini Cobra

Take your LEGO lovers to the LEGO store on Tuesday, January 3rd at 5 p.m. for the monthly Mini Model Build. This month your kids can build a LEGO Cobra!

Be sure to sign your little one up for the free LEGO magazine subscription, too!

Details ---
Where: LEGO Store at Bellevue Square (check the LEGO website for other locations)
When: Tuesday, January 2nd 5 p.m.
Cost: Free!
More Info: LEGO website
Details: One day each month you can learn how to build a cool LEGO mini model, and take it home – for free! Quantities are limited and offer is good while supplies last only. A new model will be available every month and will be specially themed to that month – ask a Store Associate for details! Models are not for sale and cannot be purchased. One free per child. Event is open to children aged 6 to 14 only. Check with your local LEGO Store for dates and times.

Home Depot Kids Workshop: Savings Shed

The Home Depot offers free, hands-on activities for kids age 5 - 12 on the first Saturday of each month. Each workshop teaches kids do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. Along with creating a fun craft, kids will take home a free Home Depot Kids Workshop apron, commemorative pin and certificate of achievement.

On Saturday, January 7th your kids can start the year off by making a super cool Savings Shed.

Details ---
Where: Home Depot
When: Saturday, January 7th 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Cost: Free!
More Info: Here
Details: For kids age 5 - 12. Check with your local Home Depot to verify they are participating.

Crafting: Valentine's Heart Sun Catcher

I wonder if posting about Valentine's crafts before December is even over is like stores that put up Christmas decorations in November or October? If so, I'm sorry. But it had to be done.

I decided to start my research into Valentine's crafts figuring if I started now we might have a good chance of getting one or two done by February 14th. So last night I was pinning away and saw this pretty little heart. And then Finley saw this pretty little heart and wanted to make it RIGHT NOW!!! So we did!

Supplies:

• Red or pink paper for large heart
• Colored paper for small hearts
• Clear contact paper
• Scissors
• Hole punch
• String or yarn

Start by cutting out a big heart and then cut out an inner heart from that. Then cut out two pieces of contact paper big enough for the heart.

It helps to flatten the contact paper before you peel it. (Totally unrelated - have you seen this book? It's changed my life. Ok, maybe not changed my life but it has provided me with 3 loaves of delicious, delicious bread! It's super easy and I totally recommend it!)

Back to the task at hand. Let your kid put the heart on the sticky contact paper and then put the smaller hearts inside it. I had pre-cut hearts that came in handy. I'm all about shortcuts around here. Letting your child cut out the hearts would probably be good for their fine motor skills and all that good stuff. But, hey, they gotta teach them something at preschool, right? ;)

When the decorating is complete, put the other piece of contact paper on by starting in one corner and smoothing it down to remove the air bubbles. Ours didn't turn out perfectly smooth, but what craft with kids does? I'm learning to accept imperfection. Next, cut around the heart and punch some holes at the top. Then tie on some string and hang it on your window.

How cute is that? Even with the wet and soggy background outside it makes you smile!

Finley had so much fun with the "sticky paper" that we made a heart for our neighbor, and a few decorations for her room. I'm beginning to think that contact paper is crafting gold for toddlers. I think I'll make a Pinterest board all about contact paper crafts!

Free Mini-Ski Lessons and More at Icicle River Trail January 8th

January is Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month and there are some great deals going on at ski resorts across the state.

The Leavenworth Winter Sports Club is hosting a Ski For Health Day on January 8, 2012 with lots of fun freebies. Check it all out:

• Free mini-ski lessons in skate and classic techniques. Each lesson is 20 minutes long and begins at 12:15, 12:45, 1:15, 1:45, and 2:15.
• Free ski rentals (rentals are limited to 30 minutes)
• Delicious refreshments
• Get your skis waxed, learn about avalanche beacons and more at the information tents by Der Sportsmann, Leavenworth Mountain Sports, Osprey Ski Shop, Northwest Mountain School, Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort, Swix, and Toko

This is a great way to try out skiing without the investing too much money. Borrow some snow bibs and boots from a friend and see what skiing is all about.

Details ---
Where: Icicle River Trail (7505 Icicle Road Levenworth, WA)
When: Sunday, January 8th 12 p.m. - 3 p.m.
Cost: Free!
More Info: Here

Mukilteo YMCA: Music Workshop and Instrument "Zoo" December 28th

Bring your kids to the Mukilteo YMCA for a unique and fun music workshop. Enjoy musical demonstrations by  the Kamiak High School Music Department and experiment and learn about different musical instruments -- including percussion, woodwinds, string, and brass. And learn about taking volunteer-taught lessons for specific instruments.

Details ---
Where: Mukilteo YMCA (10601 47 Place W Mukilteo, WA)
When: Wednesday, December 28th 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Cost: Free for members. $5 for program participants.
More Info: Here
Details: Class is for kids 6 - 11. Parents of 6-year-olds must remain in the room during the workshop.

Imagine Children's Museum: Rockin' New Years Eve Party

Celebrate New Year's around the world with music and dance at the Rockin' New Year's Eve Party at Imagine Children's Museum in Everett. Make fun party accessories like 2012 glasses, crazy hats, party poppers, noise makers and more! The party is from 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. but the museum will be open for their normal business hours (10 a.m. - 5 p.m.).

Details ---
Where: Imagine Children's Museum (1502 Wall Street Everett, WA)
When: Saturday, December 31st 12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
Cost: Free with admission. General admission is $7.95 (free for kids 12 months and younger).
More Info: Here

The Museum of Flight: Winter Family Fun December 26th - January 1st

Source

The Museum of Flight has a lot of fun stuff going on during their Winter Family Fun event next week. Gliders, robotics and rockets - join in lots of aero-spaced themed activities all week long. This sounds like a lot of fun and I would definitely be going if my kids were a bit older.

The activities are free with admission. Admission to the museum is $16 for adults, $9 for youths (5 - 17), and free for kids 4 and under. If you have the Chinook Book, you can find a BOGO admission coupon in your book. Or if you're AAA members, don't forget to flash your card at the door and you'll get $1 off youth tickets and $2 off adult tickets.

Here is the schedule for the week:

Monday, December 26th
11 a.m.  - 2 p.m. - Paper Planet
12 p.m. - 3 p.m. - Robot Garage

Tuesday, December 27th
12 p.m. - 3 p.m. - Paper Planet
11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. - Planetarium Show

Wednesday, December 28th
11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. - Planetarium Show
12 p.m. - 3 p.m. - Robot Garage

Thursday, December 29th
12 p.m. - 3 p.m. - Paper Planet
11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m. - Planetarium Show

Friday, December 30th
12 a.m.  - 3 p.m. - Paper Planet
12 p.m. - 2 p.m. - Robot Garage

Saturday, December 31st
11 a.m.  - 3 p.m. - Paper Planet

Sunday, January 1st
12 a.m.  - 3 p.m. - Paper Planet

Paper Planet - Make paper creations that really fly! Drop in any time during the listed hours.

Robot Garage - Learn about the history of robotics while building a terrestrial rover from robitics kits. Drop in any time during the listed hours.

Planetarium Show - Climb into our digital planetarium and watch the night sky. A look into the constellations and planets up in the Seattle sky tonight. 30-minute shows at 11 am, 1pm, and 2pm.

Groupon: $8 for Dozen Mix & Match Doughnuts from FROST

It's like Groupon was reading my mind (or my blog). This was one of my favorite Groupons last year and it's back again -- $8 for a dozen doughnuts from FROST! Wooohooo. These doughnuts make a yummy treat for a playgroup with the kiddos (been there). Or paired with a bottle of wine, these make a great addition to a movie night with with your girlfriends (done that).

Fine Print: Expires Jan 2, 2012. Limit 1 per person, may buy 1 additional as a gift. Limit 1 per visit. Not valid for delivery. Not valid until 12/26/11. Not valid on New Years Eve, Mothers Day, Fathers Day, 6/1/12, or 12/24/12. As always, check out all the fine print before purchasing.

If you are new to Groupon, go here to sign up. Then go here to purchase this great deal.

And don't forget to sign up for news and updates from FROST. You'll get lots of good deals and coupons sent straight to your inbox!

DIY Personalized Placemat for Kids

I'm a kind of proud of this little project I did for the kids. I came up with it all on my own (with no help from Pinterest!). I did get some design ideas from a few websites selling placemats for a whopping $14 - $18. I don't know about you, but that's way too much to spend on something my kid is just going to smear food all over. With a little time and a trip to Staples, you can make one for under $5.

I used Inkscape to do the design. Microsoft Word or OpenOffice would probably work just as well. Just create a document that's 11 x 17, put in your child's name and the letters of the alphabet in all different fonts, add a border or two and you have the beginnings of cute little placemat.

The next step is to print the document. Since my printer doesn't print documents this large, I decided to use Staples Copy & Print for my copy and printing needs. It's easy to upload your files from home and pick them up in the store. They were just under $2 for each sheet. You can also have them laminated in the store, too. But since I still have a neat little laminator in my possession, I decided to do the laminating myself.

About that laminating... It wouldn't be a Crafting by Katie without a few "learn from my mistakes." Number 1 -- get the right size laminating pouches. I used the 3 mil size (because it's all I had and I was too cheap and lazy to go out a few days before Christmas). It worked fine but it's a pretty flimsy placemat. The 5 mil size is probably the better way to go. Number 2 -- when the instructions for the laminator say to wait for a minute before removing the page from the pouch, do as you're told. I was just a little too impatient to see how it all turned out and one of the sheets got a little wrinkled.

But I still think they turned out pretty cool, if I do say so myself! My kids are going to love messing these up eating their meals off them.

If you'd like to make your own placemat and want the SVG file to use as a template, send me an email and I'll send it to you. If you've got a Finley or a Grady all the hard work is done for you!

Groupon: $10 for Ice Skating and Rentals For Two

Source

Groupon is offering a great local deal for the Magic Season Ice Arena in Downtown Bellevue. For just $10 you can get admission and skate rentals for two people (usually $10 per person). This is a great deal and would make a nice gift to give to your own family.

Fine print: The offer is good 1/1/12 - 1/8/12. Limit 2 per person. May buy 2 additional as gifts. Limit 1 per visit. As always, check out all the fine print before purchasing.

If you are new to Groupon, go here to sign up. Then go here to purchase this great deal.

Holiday Light Displays

There's still time to get out there and see some pretty holiday light displays. Here's a quick overview of the displays in the area.

The Christmas Lights at Warm Beach

We checked out The Lights of Christmas at Warm Beach earlier this month and had a great time. If you have an Entertainment book, look online for a BOGO coupon that you can print right from their website. They are still 5 more days to check it out - December 22nd, 23rd, 26th, 27th, and 28th. Added bonus - the 28th is a "Pay What You Can Night."

Binary Lights

This is a fun and free light display choreographed to some awesome dance music. The kids and I loved it!

Garden d'Lights

This display with over 1/2 million lights is open until the 31st, even on Christmas Eve and Christmas. It might be a great way to walk around and burn off that holiday ham.

Holiday Tour of Lights at Cedarcrest Golf Course
There's a new light display in Marysville this year at the Cedarcrest Golf Course. They have a hayride, rotary train, bonfire, music and more.


Local Neighborhoods

Make it a free outing and drive around and look at all the lights in your neighborhood. I took the kids out for a drive last week and they loved it. For the record, I'm pretty sure my neighborhood has the highest density of inflatable decorations. I even saw a Christmas SpongeBob SquarePants on someone's roof. If inflatables aren't your thing, KOMO News has a great listing of some beautiful light displays in various neighborhoods in Snohomish County, King County and more.

Happy Holidays!

Highland Ice Arena: Holiday Sessions

Source

If your kids need to burn off a little energy during their break from school, head to Highland Ice Arena for a little time on the ice. They have extra public skating times just in time for the holidays. Check out the schedule below.

Dec 22 - 10:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.
Dec 23 - 10:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.
Dec 24 - 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Dec 24 - 1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Dec 25 - 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Dec 26 - 10:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.
Dec 27 - 10:00 a.m. to 7:45 p.m.
Dec 28 - 10:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.
Dec 29 - 10:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.
Dec 30 - 10:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.
Dec 31 - 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Dec 31 - 6:00 p.m. to 12:15 a.m.
Jan 1 - 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Jan 2 - 10:00 a.m. to 5:15 p.m.

Details ---
Where: Highland Ice Arena (18005 Aurora Ave. N Shoreline, WA)
When: See above
Cost: Skate rentals are $3. Admission is $7 for ages 13 - 64, $6 for ages 6 - 12 and 65+, and free for kids 5 and under.
More Info: Highlands Ice Arena website or call (206) 546-2431

Holiday Happenings: December 23rd, 24th, 25th

If you're all caught up on your holiday to-do list and looking for something fun to do, check out the weekend calendar! I hope you have a fabulous weekend with your friends and family! Merry Christmas!

Friday

Dec. 23	Sno-Isle Libraries: Winter Extravaganza	Various times
Dec. 23	Reindeer Festival at Swansons	9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Dec. 22	Highland Ice Arena: Public Skate	10 a.m. - 5:15 p.m.
Dec. 23	Magic Season Ice Arena	11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Dec. 23	Binary Christmas Light Show	4:30 - 10 p.m.
Dec. 23	Holiday Tour of Lights	5 - 10 p.m.
Dec. 23	Garden d'Lights	5 - 10 p.m.
Dec. 23	The Lights of Christmas at Warm Beach	5 - 10 p.m.
Dec. 23	Snowflake Lane	7 p.m.

Saturday

Dec. 24	Reindeer Festival at Swansons	9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Dec. 22	Highland Ice Arena: Public Skate	10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Dec. 24	Magic Season Ice Arena	11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Dec. 22	Highland Ice Arena: Public Skate	1:30 - 4 p.m.
Dec. 24	Binary Christmas Light Show	4:30 - 10 p.m.
Dec. 24	Garden d'Lights	5 - 10 p.m.

Sunday
Merry Christmas!!!

Dec. 25	Magic Season Ice Arena	11 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Dec. 22	Highland Ice Arena: Public Skate	12 - 4 p.m.
Dec. 25	Binary Christmas Light Show	4:30 - 10 p.m.
Dec. 25	Garden d'Lights	5 - 10 p.m.

IKEA: Kids Eat Free December 26th - January 1st

If you plan on doing a little post-Christmas shopping at IKEA, take the kids and treat them to a free kids combo meal. While you're there, sign up for IKEA FAMILY and enjoy lots of other deals and freebies. I took the kids to IKEA last week and we had a great time shopping and enjoying some free tasty treats!

Play: FROST in Mill Creek Town Center

If you live in the area you are probably no stranger to FROST. But did you know you can sign up to get news and updates? In other words, doughnut coupons sent straight to your inbox. I can't think of a better kind of coupon. And if you're on Facebook, you should definitely "like" their page and you'll get the inside scoop on lots of good deals like FROST Friday -- 15 doughnuts for the price of a dozen. Yes, please! (While you're on Facebook, you should definitely check out my page!)

Today I had a BOGOD (Buy One Get One Doughnut) coupon burning a hole in my e-mail inbox, so I took Finley out for a little treat. I think she liked it. It's a little hard to tell from these photos though. ;)

Mukilteo YMCA: Girls Basketball Clinic

The Mukilteo YMCA is offering a Basketball Clinic for girls 9 - 14 (grades 5 - 8) on December 22nd from 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Children are guided through basic drills and learn the fundamentals of basketball in a fun and non-competitive environment. The workshop will be led by the players from the Kamiak High School Girls’ Basketball team. The clinic is free for members and only $5 for non-members.

Details ---
Where: Mukilteo YMCA
When: Thursday, December 22nd 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Cost: Free for members; $5 for non-members
Details: Some basketballs will be provided, but please feel free to bring one clearly marked with your name.
More Info: Mukilteo YMCA website. Contact the Mukilteo YMCA (425-493-9622) or visit Member Services to register.

Sno-Isle Libraries: Winter Extravaganza

Wow! Check out all these free and fun activities at the Winter Extravaganza hosted by the Sno-Isle Libraries. There's more than enough to keep your kids busy and you happy during their Winter break -- LEGO animation, bugs, puppet shows, movies, book making, game days, and lots more!

For more information about each of these events, or to register, go to the Sno-Isle Libraries Event calendar.

Tuesday, December 20th

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: MAD SCIENCE — FIRE AND ICE
Date: Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Time: 11:00 AM
Library: Lake Stevens Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Celebrate winter break with Mad Science. From foggy dry ice storms and gravity defying beach balls to a Mad Science burp flavored potion, audiences will be amazed by what they see, hear, and ugh ... taste! Funded by the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: WINTER CRAFTS
Date: Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Time: 11:00 AM
Library: Clinton Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Who says you can't have fun indoors? Head down to the Library for some creative crafting. Intended for kids ages 5 to 10.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: SEATTLE BUG SAFARI!
Date: Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Monroe Library
Event Type: Family Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: This creepy-crawly program might have you jumping out of your skin! Journey into the fascinating world of insects and spiders with hands on discovery and one-on-one interaction. Hissing cockroaches and giant spiders are a guaranteed delight! Supported by the Friends of the Monroe Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: ARCTIC OR ANTARCTIC?
Date: Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Granite Falls Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: The Arctic and Antarctic may both be cold but they are very different places! Learn about the differences in wildlife, geography, and temperature while having fun playing games and doing crafts. Funded by the Friends of the Snohomish Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: NUTCRACKER PUPPET THEATER WORKSHOP
Date: Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Stanwood Library
Event Type: Family Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: During this 2-hour workshop, discover the magical story of The Nutcracker, then make your own puppet or mask and bring it to life in our special puppet theater set. Caregiver required. Funded by Stanwood/CamaNo Friends of the Library. Preregistration required.
Registration Required: Yes

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: FIRE AND ICE
Date: Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Snohomish Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Celebrate Winter Break with the team from Mad Science. From foggy dry ice storms and gravity-defying beach balls to a Mad Science burp-flavored potion, audiences will be amazed by what they see, hear, and ugh … taste! For school-age children and caregivers. Funded by the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: STAR TALES
Date: Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Edmonds Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Discover the magic and wonder of the night sky through stories and activities. For children ages 5 and up.
Registration Required: No

Wednesday, December 21st

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: WINTER CRAFTS
Date: Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Time: 10:00 AM
Library: Freeland Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Who says you can't have fun indoors? Head down to the Library for some creative crafting. Intended for kids ages 5 to 10.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: CLAY ANIMATION WORKSHOP
Date: Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Time: 11:00 AM
Library: Granite Falls Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Celebrate winter break with LUKAS ALLENBAUGH. Use stop-motion animation with clay to create your own movie! Funded by the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation. Limited space so please register in advance for this program by calling 360-691-6087.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: LET’S DRAW A STORY!
Date: Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Time: 11:15 AM
Library: Lake Stevens Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: You don’t have to be an artist to try your hand at the traditional technique of drawing stories. Learn how a few strokes of the pen can add a whole new element of surprise to storytelling. Make your own book to take home.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: SCAVENGER HUNT AND BIKES FOR BOOKS CELEBRATION
Date: Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Monroe Library
Event Type: Family Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: What is the late fee for books? How many items can you check out at a time? And where in the world are the Where’s Waldo books? Answer these Scavenger Hunt questions and many more! Also enjoy refreshments as the winners of the “Bikes for Books” program are anNounced! Monroe Police will join us to talk about bicycle safety. Supported by the Friends of the Monroe Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: ARCTIC OR ANTARCTIC?
Date: Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Snohomish Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: The Arctic and Antarctic may both be cold but they are very different places! Learn about the differences in wildlife, geography, and temperature while having fun playing games and doing crafts. For school-age children and caregivers. Funded by Friends of the Snohomish Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: STAR TALES
Date: Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Mill Creek Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Discover the magic and wonder of the night sky through stories and activities. For children ages 5 and up.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: THE SINGING SNAKE AND OTHER TALES FROM FAR AND NEAR
Date: Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Brier Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Listen to the rhythm of stories and songs with a didgeridoo, a flute, and a drum.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: ROBOT GARAGE
Date: Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Time: 2:30 PM
Library: Stanwood Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Use robotics kits to explore the basic engineering required to build a successful terrestrial rover. Learn some of the history of robotics and discuss the latest achievements of robots in space, on Earth, and in the home. Presented by the Museum of Flight. Funded by the Stanwood/CamaNo Friends of the Library. For 4th to 8th grades. Preregistration required.
Registration Required: Yes

Thursday, December 22nd

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: CONNECT THE STRAWS AND BUILD!
Date: Thursday, December 22, 2011
Time: 10:00 AM
Library: Marysville Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: The sky's the limit, so bring your imagination to the Library from 10:00-1:00 and help create a super structure with Nothing more than simple straws and connectors. For school-age children.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: WINTER CRAFTS
Date: Thursday, December 22, 2011
Time: 10:00 AM
Library: Langley Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Who says you can't have fun indoors? Head down to the Library for some creative crafting. Intended for kids ages 5 to 10.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: GINGERBREAD BEAD NECKLACE (DROP-IN CRAFT)
Date: Thursday, December 22, 2011
Time: 11:00 AM
Library: Lake Stevens Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Drop by the Library and make a gingerbread necklace that can be worn all season. Supported by the Friends of the Lake Stevens Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: MOVIE MATINÉE "MARS NEEDS MOMS"
Date: Thursday, December 22, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Monroe Library
Event Type: Family Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Join us for a movie matinée of "Mars Needs Moms"! The DVD of the movie will be given out as a raffle prize at the end of the show! Rated PG. Supported by the Friends of the Monroe Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: TRACKING THE HUMONGOUS: MAMMOTHS & ELEPHANTS
Date: Thursday, December 22, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Granite Falls Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Can you imagine trying to trap a woolly mammoth? Hear about elephant trunk wrestling. Enjoy tales, games and crafts featuring these amazing giants. Ages 6 to 11. Supported by Friends of the Granite Falls Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: BUILD-A-BOOK WORKSHOP
Date: Thursday, December 22, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Arlington Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Create your own beautiful books using simple paper-folding techniques. For ages 7 and up. Supported by the Friends of the Arlington Library.
Registration Required: No

Friday, December 23rd

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: HOLIDAY CARD CRAFTERNoON
Date: Friday, December 23, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Sultan Library
Event Type: None
Age Group: All Ages, Children and Families
Description: Get crafty and create some fun cards for family and friends. Funded by the Friends of the Sultan Library.
Registration Required: No

Tuesday, December 27th

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: LEGO® ANIMATION WORKSHOP
Date: Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Time: 10:00 AM
Library: Coupeville Library
Event Type: TEEN PROGRAM
Age Group: Teens, Children and Families
Description: Create your own stop-motion LEGO® movies with instructor LUKAS ALLENBAUGH of the Clay Animation Network. All equipment and materials are provided. Space is limited; preregistration required. For ages 8 to 14 years.
Additional Information:Funded by the Friends of the Freeland and Coupeville Libraries, the Coupeville Festival Association, and the Sno-Isle Foundation.
Registration Required: Yes

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: WOODLAND CHARM BRACELET (DROP-IN CRAFT)
Date: Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Time: 11:00 AM
Library: Lake Stevens Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Drop by the Library and make a woodland charm bracelet that is sure to please. Supported by the Friends of the Lake Stevens Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: TRACKING THE HUMONGOUS: MAMMOTHS & ELEPHANTS
Date: Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Darrington Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Can you imagine trying to trap a woolly mammoth? Hear about elephant trunk wrestling. Enjoy tales, games and crafts featuring these amazing giants.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: FIRE AND ICE
Date: Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Marysville Library
Event Type: None
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Celebrate winter break with MAD SCIENCE. From foggy dry ice storms and gravity-defying beach balls to a Mad Science burp-flavored potion, audiences will be amazed by what they see, hear, and ugh … taste! Funding provided by the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: ARCTIC OR ANTARCTIC?
Date: Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Monroe Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: The Arctic and Antarctic may both be cold but they’re very different places! Learn about the differences in wildlife, geography, and temperatures while having fun playing games and doing crafts! For school-age children. Supported by Friends of the Snohomish Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: TREE TREASURES
Date: Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Granite Falls Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Discover amazing new tree products. Identify trees and the treasures they give us. Make your own incredible paper and try some real juice from the cashew fruit. Preregistration required. Supported by the Friends of the Granite Falls Library and the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: COLLECTIBLES FROM A TO Z
Date: Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Snohomish Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Are you a collector? People collect items that may have value and some may Not, either way the collections hold some value to the collector. The list of items that people collect seems endless from airplanes to zithers - come learn about them! For school-age children and caregivers. Supported by Friends of the Lake Stevens Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: THE SINGING SNAKE AND OTHER TALES FROM FAR AND NEAR
Date: Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: MUKILTEO Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families, All Ages
Description: Listen to the rhythm of stories and songs with a didgeridoo, a flute, and a drum. For ages 6 to 11.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: STAR TALES
Date: Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Lynnwood Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Discover the magic and wonder of the night sky through stories and activities. For children ages 5 and up.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: LEGO ANIMATION WORKSHOP
Date: Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Freeland Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Create your own stop-motion LEGO movies with instructor Lukas Allenbaugh of the Clay Animation Network. All equipment and materials are provided. Space is limited; preregistration required. For ages 8 to 14 years.
Additional Information:Funded by the Friends of the Freeland and Coupeville Libraries and the Sno-Isle Foundation.
Registration Required: Yes

Wednesday, December 28th

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: PUPPETS PLEASE MARIONETTES
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Time: 9:30 AM
Library: Lynnwood Library
Event Type: Family Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Join us for a show with hand-crafted marionettes who stop to talk, nibble a toe, or give a friendly hug.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: LEGO® MANIA (DROP-IN)
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Time: 10:00 AM
Library: Marysville Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Drop in at the Marysville Library from 10:00 to Noon and join the LEGO® fun during winter break. For school-age children only.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: PUPPETS PLEASE MARIONETTES
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Time: 10:30 AM
Library: Lynnwood Library
Event Type: Family Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Join us for a show with hand-crafted marionettes who stop to talk, nibble a toe, or give a friendly hug.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: ARCTIC OR ANTARCTIC?
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Time: 11:15 AM
Library: Lake Stevens Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: The Arctic and Antarctic may both be cold but they’re very different places! Learn about the differences in wildlife, geography, and temperatures while having fun playing games and doing crafts!
For school age children.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: I CAN'T BELIEVE MY EYES
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Darrington Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Discover games our eYes and brain play through the science of optical illusions. Funded by Darrington Friends of the Library and the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation.
Registration Required: Yes

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: UP, UP AND AWAY!
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Monroe Library
Event Type: Family Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Celebrate winter break with Mad Science. Watch a vortex generator at work, ride a hovercraft, and see how pressure can be used to create cinematic special effects! For school-age children. Funded by the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: BUILD IT!
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Langley Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Share an afterNoon using your engineering skills to build your masterpiece. Use blocks, straws, LEGO bricks, etc to erect a "one of a kind" structure.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: LET'S DRAW A STORY!
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Snohomish Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: You don’t have to be an artist to try your hand at the traditional technique of drawing stories. Learn how a few strokes of the pen can add a whole new element of surprise to storytelling. Make your own book to take home. For school-age children and caregivers. Funded by Friends of the Sultan Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: LEGO® ANIMATION WORKSHOP
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Mukilteo Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families, Teens
Description: Celebrate winter break with LUKAS ALLENBAUGH. Use stop-motion animation with LEGO pieces to create your own movie! Limited space so please register in advance for this program. Funded by the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation.
Registration Required: Yes

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: THE SINGING SNAKE AND OTHER TALES FROM FAR AND NEAR
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Mill Creek Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Listen to the rhythm of stories and songs with a didgeridoo, a flute and a drum. For ages 6 to 11.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: STAR TALES
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Brier Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Discover the magic and wonder of the night sky through stories and activities. For children ages 5 and up.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: SUPER HOLIDAY LEGO CHALLENGE!
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Edmonds Library
Event Type: Family Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Kids ages 5 to 12 take the challenge to build your very best with a variety of LEGO bricks.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: ARCTIC OR ANTARCTIC?
Date: Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Time: 3:00 PM
Library: Sultan Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: The Arctic and Antarctic may both be cold but they're very different places! Learn about the differences in wildlife, geography, and temperature while having fun playing games and doing crafts! For school age children.
Registration Required: No

Thursday, December 29th

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: WINTER GREETING CARDS (DROP-IN CRAFT)
Date: Thursday, December 29, 2011
Time: 11:00 AM
Library: Lake Stevens Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Send your greeting inside of this fun and easy-to-make winter-time card. Supported by the Friends of the Lake Stevens Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: LEGO® ANIMATION WORKSHOP
Date: Thursday, December 29, 2011
Time: 11:00 AM
Library: Oak Harbor Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Celebrate winter break with LUKAS ALLENBAUGH. Use stop-motion animation with LEGO materials to create your own movie. Space is limited so please register in advance for this program. Funded by the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation.
Registration Required: Yes

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: A BLIZZARD OF TALES AND TUNES WITH ERIC ODE
Date: Thursday, December 29, 2011
Time: 11:00 AM
Library: Marysville Library
Event Type: Family Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Young children and their families are invited to the Library for a flurry of winter stories and songs, presented by ERIC ODE. Hand motions, fingerplays, flannel board and other props bring it all to life in this fast paced, post-holiday program.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: MOVIE MATINÉE "THE SMURFS"
Date: Thursday, December 29, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Monroe Library
Event Type: Family Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Join us for a movie matinée of "The Smurfs"! The DVD of the movie will be given out as a raffle prize at the end of the show! Rated PG. Supported by the Friends of the Monroe Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: COLLECTIBLES FROM A TO Z
Date: Thursday, December 29, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Sultan Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Are you a collector? People collect items that may have value and some may Not, either way the collections hold some value to the collector. The list of items that people collect seems endless from airplanes to zithers. Craft to follow. Supported by the Friends of the Lake Stevens Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: LEGO® CREATIONS
Date: Thursday, December 29, 2011
Time: 1:00 PM
Library: Darrington Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Bring a friend and join in LEGO fun. Everything you need to create something amazing will be provided.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: THE SHOEMAKER AND THE ELF
Date: Thursday, December 29, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Edmonds Library
Event Type: Family Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Mary Shaver Marionettes presents this favorite fairytale with its impish elf, a devoted daughter with baking issues, and a Queen who collects shoes!
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: GAME DAY (DROP-IN)
Date: Thursday, December 29, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Snohomish Library
Event Type: Family Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Drop in between 2:00 and 3:00 for cookies, cocoa, and games. There will be lots to choose from, so find a friend and head to the Library! Families welcome. Funded by Friends of the Snohomish Library.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: MAD SCIENCE FIRE AND ICE
Date: Thursday, December 29, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: MUKILTEO Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families, All Ages
Description: Celebrate winter break with Mad Science. From foggy dry ice storms and gravity-defying beach balls to a Mad Science burp-flavored potion, audiences will be amazed by what they see, hear, and ugh … taste! Funded by the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: STAR TALES
Date: Thursday, December 29, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Mountlake Terrace Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Discover the magic and wonder of the night sky through stories and activities. For children ages 5 and up.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: THE SINGING SNAKE AND OTHER TALES FROM FAR AND NEAR
Date: Thursday, December 29, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Lynnwood Library
Location: Large Meeting Room
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Listen to the rhythm of stories and songs with a didgeridoo, a flute, and a drum. For children ages 6 and up.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: MOVIE EVENT "RANGO"
Date: Thursday, December 29, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Freeland Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: All Ages
Description: Voices by Johnny Depp, Isla Fisher, Timothy Olyphant. Rated PG. This animated comedy-adventure follows the comical, transformative journey of Rango, a sheltered chameleon living as an ordinary family pet, while facing a major identity crisis.
Registration Required: No

Friday, December 30th

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: BOOK MAKING
Date: Friday, December 30, 2011
Time: 11:00 AM
Library: Darrington Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Join your friends at the Library for winter break fun.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: RAD CRAFTS FROM OLD CDS
Date: Friday, December 30, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Darrington Library
Event Type: None
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: ‘Green’ DIY fun at the Library—turn hard-to-recycle CDs into fab or funky objects of art. For tweens age 9 to 12.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: MOVIE MATINEE "TANGLED"
Date: Friday, December 30, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Mukilteo Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families, Teens, All Ages
Description: Crafts start at 1:00, movie at 2:00. The kingdom’s most wanted bandit Flynn Rider is taken hostage by Rapunzel, a beautiful and feisty teen with 70 feet of magical, golden hair. She's looking for her ticket out of the tower where she’s been locked away for years so she strikes a deal with the handsome thief and the two set off on an action-packed escapade. Animated feature. Rated PG.
Registration Required: No

WINTER EXTRAVAGANZA: FIRE AND ICE
Date: Friday, December 30, 2011
Time: 2:00 PM
Library: Arlington Library
Event Type: School-Age Program
Age Group: Children and Families
Description: Celebrate winter break with Mad Science. From foggy dry ice storms and gravity-defying beach balls to a Mad Science burp-flavored potion, audiences will be amazed by what they see, hear, and ugh… taste! Funded by the Sno-Isle Libraries Foundation.
Registration Required: No

Movies at KidsQuest Museum: Planet Earth

KidsQuest Children's Museum in Bellevue is hosting a Movies @ The Museum Night on December 21st. Get cozy in front of the big screen and learn new things about Planet Earth, then continue the fun with a special themed activity. Popcorn and playtime in the museum are included and Jet City pizza will be available for purchase. The doors open at 6 p.m. and the movie will begin at 6:30 p.m. The museum will be open for play until 9 p.m. Sounds like a fun family night!

Details ---
Where: KidsQuest Children's Museum (4091 Factoria Mall SE Bellevue, WA 98006)
When: Wednesday, December 21st 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Cost: $5 for members, $8 for non-members, $3 for pizza
More Info: Go to the KidsQuest Museum website for more information and to register. Pre-registration is recommended. No coupons, discounts, prime cards or other discounts apply. Great for all ages.

Water Play

A month or so ago I made Oobleck with the kids and needed to keep them busy while I cleaned up their mess. So I pulled two chairs up to the kitchen sink, filled it with soap, turned on the water and gave them a few big spoons. And then I asked myself, "Why have I not done this before?"

I remember having so much fun playing in the sink as a kid. (Funny that it's so much fun as a kid, not so much as a grown-up.)

The splashing quickly turned into pouring water on the boy's head. But he didn't seem to mind.

It did get a bit messy, but the kids had so much fun and it's not as if soapy water is really messy. Plus it just gave me a little encouragement to mop the floors afterwards.

This one is definitely going onto my list of keep 'em busy so I can get on facebook fun activities for toddlers.

Play: My Garden Nursery

After spending 3 weeks fretting over what kind of damage our very active 18-month-old boy would do to a Christmas tree (I imagined him pulling a Buddy the Elf stunt and jumping on the tree from the couch), we decided to bite the bullet and just get one. So we headed to My Garden Nursery to pick out the perfect tree.

I'm sure most of you already have your trees up and decorated, but if you're from the future and you're wondering where to get your Christmas tree, I want to tell you about this great shop. The service here is fantastic. Every single person I talk to there is super friendly and super helpful. (They were kind enough to help us with our slug problem in a eco-friendly manner a summer or two ago.)

It's no different at Christmas time. They are more than happy to help you pick out your tree, give it a clean cut, trim off any branches, put it in that netting that I'm sure has a name but is totally escaping me right now, and the best part - tie it to the top of your car. Talk about full service.

I have no idea if other places do all this. But I love to support a local business rather than going to a big name store or tree lot.

There's lots of other fun stuff to see while you're there. They have a very fun gnome display. I don't know why, but I have a thing for gnomes right now. They're so cute and round and lovable, dontcha think? Or maybe it's just me.

There's a little gnome that's looking a little guilty. I wonder what she's getting into.

They also have a fun train table for the kiddos to play with.

And a new toy section with lots of great garden-themed toys. This store is a lot like Molbak's. With the toy section and the trains and indoor plant area to explore, it's a great outing for you and your kids any time of year.

We got our tree home and decorated. And after all that fretting, the boy has barely touched it. I think he's forgotten it's even there.

Finley, on the other hand, has been decorating and redecorating the tree and making little forts under it. I'll be keeping an eye on her!

Merry Christmas!